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One Month Til I Do #1
Adventurous Proposal
After a string of bad dates, Florence Gray is so over online dating. So much so, that if she has to survive another guy standing her up she might just do something crazy ... like accept the first proposal she gets.
So when she finds herself alone in the bar, again, Florence can hardly believe her eyes-or ears-when Hugh Humphreys swoops in and presents her with a proposal so adventurous she can't believe she's actually considering saying yes.
Because, after all, twenty five days to plan a wedding is some feat and that’s while getting to know your fiancé, their disapproving Mother and dealing with a jealous ex. Throw in the small matter of where they should live and you have Florence wondering what the hell she's gotten herself into.
Can you really countdown to a wedding like an advent calendar? Fall in love with a stranger and make them your husband? Because if she's going to make it down the aisle Christmas morning, Florence has to find out and fast.
So when she finds herself alone in the bar, again, Florence can hardly believe her eyes-or ears-when Hugh Humphreys swoops in and presents her with a proposal so adventurous she can't believe she's actually considering saying yes.
Because, after all, twenty five days to plan a wedding is some feat and that’s while getting to know your fiancé, their disapproving Mother and dealing with a jealous ex. Throw in the small matter of where they should live and you have Florence wondering what the hell she's gotten herself into.
Can you really countdown to a wedding like an advent calendar? Fall in love with a stranger and make them your husband? Because if she's going to make it down the aisle Christmas morning, Florence has to find out and fast.
188 pages, Unknown Binding
Published November 14, 2016
385 people are currently reading
588 people want to read
About the author
Laura Barnard
19 books513 followersAmazon Bestselling Author Laura Barnard lives in Hertfordshire, UK and writes British, quirky laugh out loud romantic comedy.
In her spare time she enjoys drinking her body weight in tea, cuddling dogs, matchmaking her friends, binging True Crime, dancing in Popworld, indulging in the power nap and reading past her bedtime.
www.laurabarnardbooks.co.uk
In her spare time she enjoys drinking her body weight in tea, cuddling dogs, matchmaking her friends, binging True Crime, dancing in Popworld, indulging in the power nap and reading past her bedtime.
www.laurabarnardbooks.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
November 12, 2020
Oh, this was exactly what I needed to read. Funny, cute, and Christmassy. I love Flo’s spark and Hugh is a hottie. I want to get married on Christmas Day!
March 27, 2017
2.5
I don't know why I keep trying to read chick lit style books, they usually irritate me. I'm just such a miserable madam.
I really had to suspend disbelief over and over again reading this, so much so that it made what should've been an undemanding read into a teeth grinding exercise in irritation management. Put it down to the time I had to rearrange a Christmas do at short notice. Everywhere was already booked, even crap places were overpriced and suppliers were not working to their usual schedules because - get this - they were closed for Christmas to give their hardworking staff time off. Fancy.
So yeah, here we had a party, a rehearsal dinner (and I'm 43 and I've never yet known anyone go to a rehearsal dinner for a wedding btw, I know it's commonplace in the US but not here) and a wedding all arranged in the three weeks before Christmas and guests were able and willing to attend on Christmas day. That was a big old eyerolling 'as if' for me. And that's before we get started on understanding why they'd agree to go for it in the first place - what was the rush?
So yeah, cute but too daft for me I'm afraid. Sorry.
Complete story, available on ku.
I don't know why I keep trying to read chick lit style books, they usually irritate me. I'm just such a miserable madam.
I really had to suspend disbelief over and over again reading this, so much so that it made what should've been an undemanding read into a teeth grinding exercise in irritation management. Put it down to the time I had to rearrange a Christmas do at short notice. Everywhere was already booked, even crap places were overpriced and suppliers were not working to their usual schedules because - get this - they were closed for Christmas to give their hardworking staff time off. Fancy.
So yeah, here we had a party, a rehearsal dinner (and I'm 43 and I've never yet known anyone go to a rehearsal dinner for a wedding btw, I know it's commonplace in the US but not here) and a wedding all arranged in the three weeks before Christmas and guests were able and willing to attend on Christmas day. That was a big old eyerolling 'as if' for me. And that's before we get started on understanding why they'd agree to go for it in the first place - what was the rush?
So yeah, cute but too daft for me I'm afraid. Sorry.
Complete story, available on ku.
November 21, 2017
4 Stars
Adventurous Proposal is only the second book I've read by Laura Barnard but it was so much fun! Florence and Hugh were both great and fun characters and I loved to get to know them.
Hugh and Florence meet in a bar on December 2nd, both stood up by their dates. They start talking and soon realize how much they like the other. Instead of asking for a second date, Hugh proposes to Florence who says yes to this crazy idea. They have a lot to plan since the wedding is scheduled for Christmas Day.
I really liked the storyline of this novel. It was cute, fun, and sweet. I also enjoyed the Christmas aspect in the story since we are only a good 5 weeks away from Christmas ourselves. I first planned to read this book as a Christmas advent calendar book - one day one chapter, starting Dec 1 until Christmas. However, I was a little disappointed that the book only had 19 chapters instead of 24 or 25. This Christmas calendar book idea was just that, an idea and it would've been great if it were that kind of a book, but it wasn't and that's OK. It was still a fun and enjoyable to read and if you're looking for a quick Christmas read then this may be it.
I really adored the last scene at the pub! The whole scene and especially the decoration were amazing!
The novel could've lived without a few certain scenes/situations. I know they were added to spice things up a little, but to me they weren't needed and just added unnecessary drama.
But when it comes down to it, being in love isn't about listing someone's hobbies or having loads in common. It's about the feeling you get when you look at them, the feeling of coming home.
**********
Cuuuuute!
Review to come soon!!
Adventurous Proposal is only the second book I've read by Laura Barnard but it was so much fun! Florence and Hugh were both great and fun characters and I loved to get to know them.
Hugh and Florence meet in a bar on December 2nd, both stood up by their dates. They start talking and soon realize how much they like the other. Instead of asking for a second date, Hugh proposes to Florence who says yes to this crazy idea. They have a lot to plan since the wedding is scheduled for Christmas Day.
I really liked the storyline of this novel. It was cute, fun, and sweet. I also enjoyed the Christmas aspect in the story since we are only a good 5 weeks away from Christmas ourselves. I first planned to read this book as a Christmas advent calendar book - one day one chapter, starting Dec 1 until Christmas. However, I was a little disappointed that the book only had 19 chapters instead of 24 or 25. This Christmas calendar book idea was just that, an idea and it would've been great if it were that kind of a book, but it wasn't and that's OK. It was still a fun and enjoyable to read and if you're looking for a quick Christmas read then this may be it.
I really adored the last scene at the pub! The whole scene and especially the decoration were amazing!
The novel could've lived without a few certain scenes/situations. I know they were added to spice things up a little, but to me they weren't needed and just added unnecessary drama.
But when it comes down to it, being in love isn't about listing someone's hobbies or having loads in common. It's about the feeling you get when you look at them, the feeling of coming home.
**********
Cuuuuute!
Review to come soon!!
November 20, 2016
What a whirlwind of a book, with arguably completely bonkers main characters, but at the same time, the whole story has a whole grand romantic charm to it, and had me smiling throughout.
Well let's face it most not bharmy people don't meet in a pub, and decide later that night not only that they should get married, but to have the wedding in 25 days time on Christmas Day. Well this is what Florence and Hugh do. They barely know each other first names, but suddenly they are thrown into frenzy of wedding preparations, dealing with an ex-girlfriend, a mother in law who doesn't approve and all manner of other things that crop up.
Not to mention, they are having to put the whole wedding together on a minute budget, comprising their respective saving, as there has been no time to save for a wedding. There is so much amusing mayhem that follows, I wouldn't want to spoil anyone's enjoyment as to just what occurs in any detail.
Suffice to say that I really loved both Florence and Hugh, and also all their friends. Hugh's grandmother is lovely and wow she can ice-skate. However its Hugh's mother and his ex-fiance that are the not so nice people, and seem determined to spoil the party.
I loved the sense of fun in this story, and the pacing was spot on for a story of this nature. It was fast and furious, every chapter pretty much was another day in the countdown to Christmas and the wedding, and with it, came more tasks that needed to occur to get a wedding into place.
Of the few books I have read so far by Laura Barnard this is definitely my favourite, it just hit all the right notes for me, and I also loved the chemistry between Flo and Hugh, which was there in spades!
Thank you so much to Laura Barnard for this copy of the book which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Well let's face it most not bharmy people don't meet in a pub, and decide later that night not only that they should get married, but to have the wedding in 25 days time on Christmas Day. Well this is what Florence and Hugh do. They barely know each other first names, but suddenly they are thrown into frenzy of wedding preparations, dealing with an ex-girlfriend, a mother in law who doesn't approve and all manner of other things that crop up.
Not to mention, they are having to put the whole wedding together on a minute budget, comprising their respective saving, as there has been no time to save for a wedding. There is so much amusing mayhem that follows, I wouldn't want to spoil anyone's enjoyment as to just what occurs in any detail.
Suffice to say that I really loved both Florence and Hugh, and also all their friends. Hugh's grandmother is lovely and wow she can ice-skate. However its Hugh's mother and his ex-fiance that are the not so nice people, and seem determined to spoil the party.
I loved the sense of fun in this story, and the pacing was spot on for a story of this nature. It was fast and furious, every chapter pretty much was another day in the countdown to Christmas and the wedding, and with it, came more tasks that needed to occur to get a wedding into place.
Of the few books I have read so far by Laura Barnard this is definitely my favourite, it just hit all the right notes for me, and I also loved the chemistry between Flo and Hugh, which was there in spades!
Thank you so much to Laura Barnard for this copy of the book which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 11, 2016
My Rating:
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
Because a man ages like a fine wine, he just gets better. A woman is like a loaf of bread – we just start going off.
She leans in to kiss me on the cheek, her scent invading my nostrils. So, this is what pure evil smells like.
She throws back her head in a totally ridiculous over the top posh laugh. Imagine a horse having a panic attack, and you’re almost there.
As long as you don’t sit on Santa’s knee and start professing that you’re a ho ho ho.
She narrows her eyes at me as if she can actually shoot out ice with them.
My Review:
Laura Barnard is a sure thing. I have read four of her engaging stories so far and she has provided me with countless hours of lively and saucy amusement. I tend to maintain a smirk and frequently chortle while indulging in her entertaining tales. Adventurous Proposal was a quick, easy, and humorous read with bits of heart squeezing drama and steamy goodness tossed in.
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
Because a man ages like a fine wine, he just gets better. A woman is like a loaf of bread – we just start going off.
She leans in to kiss me on the cheek, her scent invading my nostrils. So, this is what pure evil smells like.
She throws back her head in a totally ridiculous over the top posh laugh. Imagine a horse having a panic attack, and you’re almost there.
As long as you don’t sit on Santa’s knee and start professing that you’re a ho ho ho.
She narrows her eyes at me as if she can actually shoot out ice with them.
My Review:
Laura Barnard is a sure thing. I have read four of her engaging stories so far and she has provided me with countless hours of lively and saucy amusement. I tend to maintain a smirk and frequently chortle while indulging in her entertaining tales. Adventurous Proposal was a quick, easy, and humorous read with bits of heart squeezing drama and steamy goodness tossed in.
February 22, 2018
Having read and enjoyed Laura Barnard’s Babes of Brighton books, I knew I needed more of her work. Thus, I was more than happy to jump into the One Month Til I Do books. Like my other Laura Barnard reads, Adventurous Proposal was a fun quick read that will leave you wanting more.
I’ll be honest, this is one of those books where you need to suspend your belief. When you read the premise, you will do one of two things – roll your eyes at the silliness or be sucked in by the potential. If you find yourself in the latter category, then you’ll have a seriously good time.
Filled with lots of laughter, Adventurous Proposal is a seriously addictive feel good read. You’ll be turning page after page to see what happens next. You’ll be sucked in by the little things, all the details that come together to make this short read so gripping. With plenty of steam, drama, and endless laughs, you’ll fall in love with the storyline. In fact, you’ll want a story as outrageous as this one to call your own love life.
Without a doubt, this was another great Laura Barnard read. As soon as you’re done, you’ll want to dive straight into Marrying Mr Valentine.
I’ll be honest, this is one of those books where you need to suspend your belief. When you read the premise, you will do one of two things – roll your eyes at the silliness or be sucked in by the potential. If you find yourself in the latter category, then you’ll have a seriously good time.
Filled with lots of laughter, Adventurous Proposal is a seriously addictive feel good read. You’ll be turning page after page to see what happens next. You’ll be sucked in by the little things, all the details that come together to make this short read so gripping. With plenty of steam, drama, and endless laughs, you’ll fall in love with the storyline. In fact, you’ll want a story as outrageous as this one to call your own love life.
Without a doubt, this was another great Laura Barnard read. As soon as you’re done, you’ll want to dive straight into Marrying Mr Valentine.
October 29, 2020
Florence is sick of meeting Mr Wrong online and on this particular night she is annoyed... she has been stood up. Just as she is about to leave, she meets Hugh and the pair get chatting. They get on so well and are soon being ushered out the bar at closing time.
The following morning Florence is woken up, Hugh has brought coffee. He has a question, a proposal if you will. He wants to get married. To Florence. In 3 weeks time - crazy right? The crazy bit is that Florence agrees.
Hugh comes from money and his mother looks down her nose at Florence. Florence has worked hard for what she has after a tough upbringing but Hugh's mother is adamant Florence is only after money.
With every wedding there are plenty of ups and downs, will they/wont they make it down the aisle. True love is literally just around the corner.
Another fantastic read from Laura.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The following morning Florence is woken up, Hugh has brought coffee. He has a question, a proposal if you will. He wants to get married. To Florence. In 3 weeks time - crazy right? The crazy bit is that Florence agrees.
Hugh comes from money and his mother looks down her nose at Florence. Florence has worked hard for what she has after a tough upbringing but Hugh's mother is adamant Florence is only after money.
With every wedding there are plenty of ups and downs, will they/wont they make it down the aisle. True love is literally just around the corner.
Another fantastic read from Laura.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
November 13, 2016
As you can see right now, I'm reading a lot of Christmas romances and when I saw that Laura Barnard was looking for bloggers to read her novella in ARC, I asked her if I could. I didn't regret it at any moment because I had a great time reading it. If you are looking for a gentle, funny and enjoyable reading, Adventurous Proposal is theperfect reading for you.
Florence Gray is a young 30-year-old woman who no longer stands dating on online websites. Once again, she was stood up and she found herself alone at the bar to drown down her grief. We can't say that Flo's love life is a resounding success and Tinder (the American equivalent of Meetic in France) does not meet her expectations. She doesn't ask much: just that the men with whom shes peaks online deigns to honor her with their presence. One might think that Flo is a crazy character to accept Hugh's eccentric proposal: getting married in 24 days. I really appreciated this character because she embarks completely on the adventure and tries everything no matter the consequences. Afterwards, it's not as if she's jumping of a cliff because if Hugh is a perfect unknown, from the beginning the reader feels that these two are perfect for each other. She will therefore go against the many obstacles that will stand in her way and her reaction will live up to the situation. She therefore doubts only in the most difficult moments and it is quite understandable. We can't launch ourselves into a life with a near perfect unknown man without having reservations and doubts and the family of the latter does nothing to reassure.her Fortunately Flo can count on her best friend Nadine who does not have her tongue in her pocket but after the shock of revelation, Nadine will always be there to listen to Flo and reassure her. Will this advent calendar not like the others lead Flo to a Christmas gift like no other? Will Flo get married in the end?
From the first moment, we can only fall under the spell of Hugh Humphrey. He is charming, seductive, reassuring and despite his crazy family, he seems to have no fault. If he meets Florence in the same bar, he too has been the victim of a stand up. How can you stand up such a man? You have to be crazy to do that. Would there be hidden defects in Hugh? In any case, the chemistry is immediately present with Flo and every morning he comes to wake his beautiful (or should I say madame grunting - I'm not a morning person) to prepare the different stages of marriage. It is the wedding et a great speed and the appointments, the decisions aredone one after the others. Laura Barnard is speaking in a fast forward way about the announcements, looking for the dress and costume, the reception area, the guests, their future nest of love and many other aspects. All this is done with great humor but also with a good dose of love because we feel that the feelings of the characters are real. Hugh's mother is the villain in this story and nothing is spared: she is petty, wicked, is full of prejudices, lives only for appearances and will do everything possible to reduce to nothing this surprising project. Money is therefore part of the sinews of war. Indeed how can we manage to organize in such a short time and with such a small budget a marriage ? Shall we make a pact with the devil to achieve it? But among Hugh's relatives, his mother is not the only one to want to put her grain of salt and Felicity could win the golden palm of the wickedness .Like a serpert, she will spit out her venom and distill the doubt in Flo's mind. Will Hugh be able to show his good faith? Will he be the perfect man for Flo?
In short, I recommend reading this novella because you will certainly spend a good time. Laura Barnard has concocted a very original advent calendar with a touching story about love. The two heroes are from the very begginning tender and charming and we only want one thing: to discover and open the final box to see what surprise we have for this Christmas day that is so special
Florence Gray is a young 30-year-old woman who no longer stands dating on online websites. Once again, she was stood up and she found herself alone at the bar to drown down her grief. We can't say that Flo's love life is a resounding success and Tinder (the American equivalent of Meetic in France) does not meet her expectations. She doesn't ask much: just that the men with whom shes peaks online deigns to honor her with their presence. One might think that Flo is a crazy character to accept Hugh's eccentric proposal: getting married in 24 days. I really appreciated this character because she embarks completely on the adventure and tries everything no matter the consequences. Afterwards, it's not as if she's jumping of a cliff because if Hugh is a perfect unknown, from the beginning the reader feels that these two are perfect for each other. She will therefore go against the many obstacles that will stand in her way and her reaction will live up to the situation. She therefore doubts only in the most difficult moments and it is quite understandable. We can't launch ourselves into a life with a near perfect unknown man without having reservations and doubts and the family of the latter does nothing to reassure.her Fortunately Flo can count on her best friend Nadine who does not have her tongue in her pocket but after the shock of revelation, Nadine will always be there to listen to Flo and reassure her. Will this advent calendar not like the others lead Flo to a Christmas gift like no other? Will Flo get married in the end?
From the first moment, we can only fall under the spell of Hugh Humphrey. He is charming, seductive, reassuring and despite his crazy family, he seems to have no fault. If he meets Florence in the same bar, he too has been the victim of a stand up. How can you stand up such a man? You have to be crazy to do that. Would there be hidden defects in Hugh? In any case, the chemistry is immediately present with Flo and every morning he comes to wake his beautiful (or should I say madame grunting - I'm not a morning person) to prepare the different stages of marriage. It is the wedding et a great speed and the appointments, the decisions aredone one after the others. Laura Barnard is speaking in a fast forward way about the announcements, looking for the dress and costume, the reception area, the guests, their future nest of love and many other aspects. All this is done with great humor but also with a good dose of love because we feel that the feelings of the characters are real. Hugh's mother is the villain in this story and nothing is spared: she is petty, wicked, is full of prejudices, lives only for appearances and will do everything possible to reduce to nothing this surprising project. Money is therefore part of the sinews of war. Indeed how can we manage to organize in such a short time and with such a small budget a marriage ? Shall we make a pact with the devil to achieve it? But among Hugh's relatives, his mother is not the only one to want to put her grain of salt and Felicity could win the golden palm of the wickedness .Like a serpert, she will spit out her venom and distill the doubt in Flo's mind. Will Hugh be able to show his good faith? Will he be the perfect man for Flo?
In short, I recommend reading this novella because you will certainly spend a good time. Laura Barnard has concocted a very original advent calendar with a touching story about love. The two heroes are from the very begginning tender and charming and we only want one thing: to discover and open the final box to see what surprise we have for this Christmas day that is so special
November 13, 2016
If you are looking for a sweet, quick fun read - here is the book for you.
Laura Barnard is a favourite author of mine and I was excited when I stumbled across this book.
Florence has had a few dud dates recently, because she has been stood up a few times. She is just about to give up on another no show and head on home when Hugh starts up a conversation over their mutual dating woes. They share the evening together and Hugh enlightens her on a theory he has on relationships. He walks her home but comes back with a very import question. We then follow this couple on their quest over the next twenty or so days till Christmas Eve.
What I loved about this novella was it has romance, humor and it has an authentic feel about it. The couple have a few obstacles to maneuver but Hugh is so endearing and Flo was his perfect offsider. The balanced each other out perfectly. The other characters had great roles and there maybe a story or two with them. Classic Laura Barnard writing so highly recommended this gem.
*reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.
Laura Barnard is a favourite author of mine and I was excited when I stumbled across this book.
Florence has had a few dud dates recently, because she has been stood up a few times. She is just about to give up on another no show and head on home when Hugh starts up a conversation over their mutual dating woes. They share the evening together and Hugh enlightens her on a theory he has on relationships. He walks her home but comes back with a very import question. We then follow this couple on their quest over the next twenty or so days till Christmas Eve.
What I loved about this novella was it has romance, humor and it has an authentic feel about it. The couple have a few obstacles to maneuver but Hugh is so endearing and Flo was his perfect offsider. The balanced each other out perfectly. The other characters had great roles and there maybe a story or two with them. Classic Laura Barnard writing so highly recommended this gem.
*reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.
November 12, 2016
I love a Christmas Romance, and this is a beautiful Christmas Romance. It grabbed me from page one and I couldn't put it down. A short read, just perfect to put you in the Christmas mood.
It has all the good vibes, along with a gorgeous man, who is everything you could want, sexy, kind, funny and loving. The heroine, who doubts herself but has gumption and determination. The best friends, the awful families, the snow, the romance, the laughter and great sex! What more could you want?
After meeting Hugh in a bar, when both of them have been stood up, Flo can't believe she is thinking about accepting his offer of proposal to marry him on Christmas Day, in just twenty five days time! With a catalogue of ups and downs, including the mother-in-law from hell, Flo isn't sure she is doing the right thing....read it to find out, but do read it,
A definite feel good Christmas story from Laura Barnard.
It has all the good vibes, along with a gorgeous man, who is everything you could want, sexy, kind, funny and loving. The heroine, who doubts herself but has gumption and determination. The best friends, the awful families, the snow, the romance, the laughter and great sex! What more could you want?
After meeting Hugh in a bar, when both of them have been stood up, Flo can't believe she is thinking about accepting his offer of proposal to marry him on Christmas Day, in just twenty five days time! With a catalogue of ups and downs, including the mother-in-law from hell, Flo isn't sure she is doing the right thing....read it to find out, but do read it,
A definite feel good Christmas story from Laura Barnard.
November 13, 2016
Have you ever read something so sweet it makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside? Well this is how Adventurous Proposal made me feel today.
It totally wraps you up in a warm fluffy blanket and makes you want to watch old christmas movies.
I absolutely loved this book and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to fall in love with the perfect leading lady and gentleman.
Flo Gray and Hugh Humphrey were made for each other.He's her soulmate who just happened to get stood up on the same night as she did.
He's a bit impulsive but it totally works and if being impulsive gets you stair aerobics and changing room frolics then sign me up.
Hugh and Flo are from different backgrounds but they just work so well together.
Even when people try to throw spanners in the works on regular occasions they manage to pull together.
I just adored this book and really wish I could rate it higher than 5 stars as it deserves so much more.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
It totally wraps you up in a warm fluffy blanket and makes you want to watch old christmas movies.
I absolutely loved this book and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to fall in love with the perfect leading lady and gentleman.
Flo Gray and Hugh Humphrey were made for each other.He's her soulmate who just happened to get stood up on the same night as she did.
He's a bit impulsive but it totally works and if being impulsive gets you stair aerobics and changing room frolics then sign me up.
Hugh and Flo are from different backgrounds but they just work so well together.
Even when people try to throw spanners in the works on regular occasions they manage to pull together.
I just adored this book and really wish I could rate it higher than 5 stars as it deserves so much more.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
October 12, 2020
Adventurous Proposal by Laura Barnard is a romantic comedy that I listened to on audio narrated by Karena Gregory.
This is the second book of Laura’s that I have read and it definitely won’t be my last. She does an amazing job with these rom-coms. I absolutely loved Florence and Hugh!
Karena did a great job on the narration. I look forward to listening to more of her work in the future. The only thing I noticed was the sound quality was a bit off on this book which could be a bit distracting.
I would highly recommend this book if you love romantic comedies, holiday romances, or romance books in general.
This is the second book of Laura’s that I have read and it definitely won’t be my last. She does an amazing job with these rom-coms. I absolutely loved Florence and Hugh!
Karena did a great job on the narration. I look forward to listening to more of her work in the future. The only thing I noticed was the sound quality was a bit off on this book which could be a bit distracting.
I would highly recommend this book if you love romantic comedies, holiday romances, or romance books in general.
November 28, 2016
My heart is so full of love for this book, it's like a big blanket; it made me feel so warm, cozy, loved up and a little sexy - what more could you want from a Christmas read ?
I need to thank Andie M Long for writing the review that lead to me reading this book I'm in your debt as I may never have read this without your glowing review.
I managed a few firsts with this book; it's my first book by this author and it's the first time I've been so engrossed in a book that I actually walked to walk reading my kindle I couldn't put this book down !
I can't recommend this book enough !!!!
I need to thank Andie M Long for writing the review that lead to me reading this book I'm in your debt as I may never have read this without your glowing review.
I managed a few firsts with this book; it's my first book by this author and it's the first time I've been so engrossed in a book that I actually walked to walk reading my kindle I couldn't put this book down !
I can't recommend this book enough !!!!
December 21, 2016
Oh this is a must read!! Once you've started you won't want to put it down and a perfect read around Christmas time (though you'd enjoy it any time of the year). It's a light, funny and well, just lovely romance story. Trust me and read it for yourself :-)
January 2, 2019
I hated this book. I wanted some mindless fluff around the holiday season and this just missed the mark. Lifetime-movie-esque it was not. It had annoying and disgusting characters (including a bigoted mother-in-law and a shallow MC) and ridiculous comments such as “For a lesbian, she sure gets offended easily” and “Her face drops. Ha, that shut her up. Yeah, bitch. I’ve got your man, and he’s not going anywhere. God, when did I get so ghetto?” . What is that trash, seriously.
Also, the MCs are so damn entitled. They meet and after one conversation at a bar, decide to be crazy and get married on Christmas Day, which is 23 days away. So they put their entire group of family and friends to work and take over their holiday for their own silly drama.
Despite it being set around Christmas, this book had a lot more wedding vibes and wasn’t very festive.
Thankfully this book was a short read and I’m glad it, and this review, are over.
Also, the MCs are so damn entitled. They meet and after one conversation at a bar, decide to be crazy and get married on Christmas Day, which is 23 days away. So they put their entire group of family and friends to work and take over their holiday for their own silly drama.
Despite it being set around Christmas, this book had a lot more wedding vibes and wasn’t very festive.
Thankfully this book was a short read and I’m glad it, and this review, are over.
November 13, 2016
Firstly, how cute is the cover for Adventurous Proposal!. Im maybe a little biased as purple is my favorite colour, and it also has a catchy title.
This story has a totally different concept from anything I have read before and I wasnt too sure if it was going to work, but boy it had me hooked.
Meet Florence Gray, Flo is in her early 30s and has had enough of internet dating, after yet again being stood up on one too many dates, she is left sitting in a bar alone, that is until she meets Hugh Humphreys. Hugh has also been stood up and decides to join Flo and they spend the night talking, after walking her home, Hugh comes back in the middle of the night with an important question.... He thinks they should get married and do everything back to front. Why not get to know each other after they are married instead of having a long engagement. So the date is set, Christmas Day this year!. With only 24 days to plan a wedding can they pull it off? Or has Flo taken on more than she can chew with Hugh?.
This was one of those books I picked up and from the first page I couldnt put it down. This grabbed my attention and I had to see where the story took us. There were just so many laugh out loud moments aswell as times I gasped and literally said Ohhh. As we go on this Christmas wedding countdown, we get to experience jealous ex girlfriends, a mother in law from hell, different opinions on where they should live and a big question of weather Flo can really trust Hugh. It was actually really refreshing to read the swearing in this, as this is life and sometimes people take things too seriously and swearing is frowned upon in a book, but this suited Flo and her charactor prefectly. I loved the changing room scene, you have to read it to find out. The descriptions of the barn and pub on the big day really did itself justice, they sounded beautiful, aswell as a lovely mixture of Christmas. I absolutely loved this and I can go on forever in this review, but yes I know too long a review gets boring, but I will tell you this story will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Once again Laura Barnard delivers, especially at Christmas time. I really hope we can revist Flo and Hugh in the future, as I am just a little bit in love with them.
This story has a totally different concept from anything I have read before and I wasnt too sure if it was going to work, but boy it had me hooked.
Meet Florence Gray, Flo is in her early 30s and has had enough of internet dating, after yet again being stood up on one too many dates, she is left sitting in a bar alone, that is until she meets Hugh Humphreys. Hugh has also been stood up and decides to join Flo and they spend the night talking, after walking her home, Hugh comes back in the middle of the night with an important question.... He thinks they should get married and do everything back to front. Why not get to know each other after they are married instead of having a long engagement. So the date is set, Christmas Day this year!. With only 24 days to plan a wedding can they pull it off? Or has Flo taken on more than she can chew with Hugh?.
This was one of those books I picked up and from the first page I couldnt put it down. This grabbed my attention and I had to see where the story took us. There were just so many laugh out loud moments aswell as times I gasped and literally said Ohhh. As we go on this Christmas wedding countdown, we get to experience jealous ex girlfriends, a mother in law from hell, different opinions on where they should live and a big question of weather Flo can really trust Hugh. It was actually really refreshing to read the swearing in this, as this is life and sometimes people take things too seriously and swearing is frowned upon in a book, but this suited Flo and her charactor prefectly. I loved the changing room scene, you have to read it to find out. The descriptions of the barn and pub on the big day really did itself justice, they sounded beautiful, aswell as a lovely mixture of Christmas. I absolutely loved this and I can go on forever in this review, but yes I know too long a review gets boring, but I will tell you this story will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Once again Laura Barnard delivers, especially at Christmas time. I really hope we can revist Flo and Hugh in the future, as I am just a little bit in love with them.
November 6, 2017
Florence and Hugh meet when tinder dates fail for both of them and serendipity sees the pair thrown together in a rather whirlwind proposal.
But between the lesbian mother, the stupid ex, the alcohol, the mega fail dress shopping experiences, there really isn't a chapter you won't find something to giggle about.
A truly funny, cute and festive story that for me encapsulates what Christmas (and love is all about); having those we love around us, for better or for worse ;)
If you like your Christmas novellas hen this is a must for you. I flew through in one sitting and the hilarious antics and inner dialogue of Flo kept me in stitches.
I hope these characters and story may well go on further as I honestly don't think I want to say goodbye!
Excerpt:
...when it comes down to it being in love isn't about listing someone's hobbies or having loads in common. It's about the feeling you get when look at them....
But between the lesbian mother, the stupid ex, the alcohol, the mega fail dress shopping experiences, there really isn't a chapter you won't find something to giggle about.
A truly funny, cute and festive story that for me encapsulates what Christmas (and love is all about); having those we love around us, for better or for worse ;)
If you like your Christmas novellas hen this is a must for you. I flew through in one sitting and the hilarious antics and inner dialogue of Flo kept me in stitches.
I hope these characters and story may well go on further as I honestly don't think I want to say goodbye!
Excerpt:
...when it comes down to it being in love isn't about listing someone's hobbies or having loads in common. It's about the feeling you get when look at them....
December 4, 2017
I’ll be honest- I read this one because the title was cute and it was free from Amazon. I’m not much for love-at-first-sight stories, though, so maybe I should have known better.
I think it might make a good Hallmark Christmas movie, but as a novel everything read as soooo contrived. Even with the premise of “couple meets and immediately decides to get married in 23 days!”
The mom was basically a plot device, while the ex was pretty much a cartoon villain. The number of SERIOUS RED FLAGS that were ignored (constant failure to communicate??) and convenient misunderstandings that were resolved in three pages just became ridiculous towards the end.
About halfway through, I felt like I was reading a bad YA novel that someone messed up and accidentally pasted explicit sex scenes into. Just a bunch of mindless nothing.
(Also, when it’s a guy it’s spelled fiancé. I know it’s a nitpick but it just bugged me EVERY TIME the author incorrectly used fiancée instead).
I think it might make a good Hallmark Christmas movie, but as a novel everything read as soooo contrived. Even with the premise of “couple meets and immediately decides to get married in 23 days!”
The mom was basically a plot device, while the ex was pretty much a cartoon villain. The number of SERIOUS RED FLAGS that were ignored (constant failure to communicate??) and convenient misunderstandings that were resolved in three pages just became ridiculous towards the end.
About halfway through, I felt like I was reading a bad YA novel that someone messed up and accidentally pasted explicit sex scenes into. Just a bunch of mindless nothing.
(Also, when it’s a guy it’s spelled fiancé. I know it’s a nitpick but it just bugged me EVERY TIME the author incorrectly used fiancée instead).
February 7, 2022
5 stars
I just love Laura Barnard's style of writing, the witty banter and funny stories, all mixed with love and romance. I love the way the characters feel like they could be your mates.
The idea behind Adventurous proposal was just so ridiculous, it was funny. I read this book in a day and stayed up far later than I should have reading it but don't regret that one bit.
I just love Laura Barnard's style of writing, the witty banter and funny stories, all mixed with love and romance. I love the way the characters feel like they could be your mates.
The idea behind Adventurous proposal was just so ridiculous, it was funny. I read this book in a day and stayed up far later than I should have reading it but don't regret that one bit.
November 10, 2019
I enjoyed listening to this one. I liked that it was set in England. An English narrator always makes my ears happy. The romance, the friendship, and the humor made it a great read. I like that Christmas is interwoven in the story, but not overwhelming.
March 7, 2017
4.5
Review to follow.
Review to follow.
June 9, 2019
What a fun book! This is a let's take a chance romance. Florence and Hugh meet after being stood up by their online dating dates. They hit it off and agree to see each other again. Florence didn't expect it to be hours later at 3 am. Hugh comes up with an proposal that they get married. They have good chemistry and hit it off right away and they can spend the rest of their lives getting to know each other. It's a crazy idea but Florence goes for it. As they plan their wedding, that will be in a bout a month!, they get to know each other and all their secrets start to come out. Hugh has an ex that still wants him and a mother that is controlling. Florence hopes she is making the right decision. As the days go by she keeps second guessing her decision. But she can't deny how Hugh makes her feel like she never has. And talk about swoon worthy...Hugh. Their love making is off the charts and Hugh's commitment to her just makes my heart warm. It goes to show you that when you meet that person for you you just know. This book also had me guessing the whole time. I really didn't know if they would make it down the isle. I loved their friends as side characters. I actually hope they have stories too! I will reveal there is one scene where Florence is in a metal club with her girls for a celebration and that scene had me laughing out loud I did see some negative reviews before I read this and after reading/listening to this book I don't get it. Yes it wasn't realistic really but who wants 100% real life all the time? I loved this fun story and I guarantee so will other readers/listeners.
November 1, 2020
Laura Barnard is one of my favourite romance writers. Her stories are of very down to Earth characters who you instantly feel acquainted with as if they were your friends. This book was no exception, and I was instantly hooked, reading it all in one sitting.
The book is about Florence, a thirty something singleton who finds herself stood up on a tinder date. She feels humiliated and is determined to play down her embarrassment, especially when a dashingly handsome man at the bar calls her out. The more they talk, the more Flo learns that he too has been stood up, and they have quite a bit in common.
Hugh is handsome, and has a particular theory about marriage, and is determined to put it into play. But can two strangers who spontaneously meet, really pull off a wedding with less than a months planning?
The story is a good combination of funny entertaining highs and some saddening lows. If you root for love and romance, that this is the perfect lighthearted read that will keep you on your toes. Barnard is the Queen of romantic comedy in my eyes and I adore all of her books.
This book is perfect for all romance lovers, and makes for a good love story to put you in the festive mood.
The book is about Florence, a thirty something singleton who finds herself stood up on a tinder date. She feels humiliated and is determined to play down her embarrassment, especially when a dashingly handsome man at the bar calls her out. The more they talk, the more Flo learns that he too has been stood up, and they have quite a bit in common.
Hugh is handsome, and has a particular theory about marriage, and is determined to put it into play. But can two strangers who spontaneously meet, really pull off a wedding with less than a months planning?
The story is a good combination of funny entertaining highs and some saddening lows. If you root for love and romance, that this is the perfect lighthearted read that will keep you on your toes. Barnard is the Queen of romantic comedy in my eyes and I adore all of her books.
This book is perfect for all romance lovers, and makes for a good love story to put you in the festive mood.
June 3, 2019
5 Star review of Adventurous Proposal (One Month Till I Do #1) by Laura Barnard
Audio Review:
Having read or listened to several books by Laura Barnard I was interested to listen to Adventurous Proposal narrated by Karena Gregory who is a new narrator to me.
Florence (Flo) Gray has had enough of disastrous on-line dating and decides to do something rash.
Being stood up yet again is the final straw, although it does give her the opportunity to meet Hugh Humphreys. When he presents her with an outrageous proposal she is shocked that she is even considering it; he wants them to marry within a month.
Can Flo pull a wedding together in such a short time as well as get to know her fiancee and fall in love? All before Christmas morning?
Adventurous Proposal was a funny, sweet romance. Throw in Hugh’s mother who is far from welcoming, an ex that just keeps interfering and you know you are in for a chaotic yet fun story.
I really liked Flo and Hugh, both separately and together. A fun, not overly long story based around Christmas. What more could you need?
Audio Review:
Having read or listened to several books by Laura Barnard I was interested to listen to Adventurous Proposal narrated by Karena Gregory who is a new narrator to me.
Florence (Flo) Gray has had enough of disastrous on-line dating and decides to do something rash.
Being stood up yet again is the final straw, although it does give her the opportunity to meet Hugh Humphreys. When he presents her with an outrageous proposal she is shocked that she is even considering it; he wants them to marry within a month.
Can Flo pull a wedding together in such a short time as well as get to know her fiancee and fall in love? All before Christmas morning?
Adventurous Proposal was a funny, sweet romance. Throw in Hugh’s mother who is far from welcoming, an ex that just keeps interfering and you know you are in for a chaotic yet fun story.
I really liked Flo and Hugh, both separately and together. A fun, not overly long story based around Christmas. What more could you need?
November 2, 2017
I have really enjoyed this quick nice story.
The title and cover have immediately caught my attention,the entertaining plot and the flowing writing made it hard to put it down.
The main characters,Hugh and Florence,are lovable and cute and you cannot not to support their weird plan even if it is a little bit crazy.
The supporting characters add so much fun to the story.
I particularly loved the ending...the last sentence put an indelible smile on my face.
"...when it comes down to it being in love isn't about listing someone's hobbies or having loads in common.It's about the feeling you get when you look at them,the feeling of coming home."
July 11, 2019
Adventurous Proposal: One Month Til I Do, Book One was a great read by Laura Barnard. Florence is done with online dating when she is stood up by another bad date. She finds herself alone in a bar when Hugh Humphreys swoops in and decides to give her a proposal that she is considering. They decide to get married in 25 days on Christmas, all while she is getting to know her fiance. Unfortunately things don't go as planned when there are people who don't want them together. Karena Gregory did a great job of narrating the characters. I can’t wait to read more by Laura Barnard.
October 27, 2020
I would just like to say a very big thank you to Laura for gifting me a copy of this book, in return for an honest review.
I absolutely love this author and i have loved everything of hers that I have read and this one was definitely no exception - I loved it!
It was quite a short read and I managed to read through it in a few hours, it was full of funny lines that just make you want to keep reading.
It had a cast of great characters and the two main characters were a perfect pair. It was also warm and cosy and a little bit sexy!
I really adored this book and it was perfect to curl up with!
I absolutely love this author and i have loved everything of hers that I have read and this one was definitely no exception - I loved it!
It was quite a short read and I managed to read through it in a few hours, it was full of funny lines that just make you want to keep reading.
It had a cast of great characters and the two main characters were a perfect pair. It was also warm and cosy and a little bit sexy!
I really adored this book and it was perfect to curl up with!
March 16, 2018
*** REVIEW ***
Adventurous Proposal by Laura Barnard
Five stars ✨
Laura Barnard, I fucking adore you.
I never thought I'd EVER find a book I loved more than Tequila and Teabags (my first LB experience), but by God she's done it.
I literally inhaled this within hours. It was hilarious, and perfect, and everything you want in a chick lit story.
Hugh and Flo are the absolute best. Also, I think I'm 100% in love with Hugh's Grandma. 💕
Cannot wait to read the next!
Adventurous Proposal by Laura Barnard
Five stars ✨
Laura Barnard, I fucking adore you.
I never thought I'd EVER find a book I loved more than Tequila and Teabags (my first LB experience), but by God she's done it.
I literally inhaled this within hours. It was hilarious, and perfect, and everything you want in a chick lit story.
Hugh and Flo are the absolute best. Also, I think I'm 100% in love with Hugh's Grandma. 💕
Cannot wait to read the next!
December 13, 2017
I love all Laura Barnard's books and I don't know why I have left it so long to read this one. It is so funny in places that you have to laugh out loud, I loved how she kept thinking he was still in love with his ex and no matter what he told her she kept jumping in feet first thinking he was lying, altogether a really good book.
November 14, 2018
Adventurous Proposal - R
Violence: none
Language: fewer than 70, including deity and around 20 fbombs. Super crude language
Sex: descriptive kissing. Sex. Yes, definitely.
Cute story, loads of promise: strangers meet, get along, decide to marry. Not sure if it's a British thing, but they throw the fbomb around like it's a conjunction.
Deleted for content.
Violence: none
Language: fewer than 70, including deity and around 20 fbombs. Super crude language
Sex: descriptive kissing. Sex. Yes, definitely.
Cute story, loads of promise: strangers meet, get along, decide to marry. Not sure if it's a British thing, but they throw the fbomb around like it's a conjunction.
Deleted for content.
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