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The English Gent Romances #4
The Imperfect Proposal
Being caught in a cupboard in a compromising position with my latest hook up by my new colleague isn’t a great introduction.
The worse thing, that new colleague - she’s my estranged wife who’s been MIA for more than a decade.
Throw in the fact that neither of our families knew we were married in the first place and it’s safe to say, events maybe aren’t going as smoothly as planned.
Thea and I married ten years ago in Vegas, the day we both qualified as doctors. I knew plenty about her: the way she kissed, how she liked her coffee and the best way to make her see stars.
What I didn’t know was that she was the daughter of a Lord, was ridiculously wealthy and she’d signed up to Doctors Without Borders.
The morning after our wedding, she was gone.
For a decade, all I’ve had are postcards, sent to wherever I’ve been working, with no return address. Those, and a heart that no matter how good a doctor I am, I just can’t fix.
Now Thea’s back in London.
And she wants to be back in my bed.
Our first proposal wasn’t perfect. Would the second lead to the same fate?
The worse thing, that new colleague - she’s my estranged wife who’s been MIA for more than a decade.
Throw in the fact that neither of our families knew we were married in the first place and it’s safe to say, events maybe aren’t going as smoothly as planned.
Thea and I married ten years ago in Vegas, the day we both qualified as doctors. I knew plenty about her: the way she kissed, how she liked her coffee and the best way to make her see stars.
What I didn’t know was that she was the daughter of a Lord, was ridiculously wealthy and she’d signed up to Doctors Without Borders.
The morning after our wedding, she was gone.
For a decade, all I’ve had are postcards, sent to wherever I’ve been working, with no return address. Those, and a heart that no matter how good a doctor I am, I just can’t fix.
Now Thea’s back in London.
And she wants to be back in my bed.
Our first proposal wasn’t perfect. Would the second lead to the same fate?
359 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2023
51 people are currently reading
381 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
January 14, 2023
The Imperfect Proposal
Annie Dyer
Dr Shay Green was a bit of an enigma, he held himself away from complications but he was a damn fine doctor.
“Shay Green stood in the corridor, shoulders wide enough to make it difficult for anyone to pass. His presence was more than just physical thought; Shay had always drawn all eyes to him. He had something few people did, a magic that pulled people into his eddy and made them feel as if they would never drown.”
Dr Thea, after marrying Shay in Vegas and disappearing the next morning off to the ends of the earth for ten long years, was a compassionate humanitarian and a healer, a great doctor.
“I stepped out of the room and straight into the path of a man whose eyes were blazing with dark anger.
I didn’t see the knife he was carrying;…”
Characters who love deeply and banter well. I would expect nothing else from Ms Dyer! I devoured this book in one day, I loved it. Shay exceeded expectations and Thea was amazing. It was great to see all of the extended Callaghan and Green families as well as a few nuggets pointing to future books. That being said it can be read as a stand-alone novel with hea. I received an arc of this book.
5 stars
Annie Dyer
Dr Shay Green was a bit of an enigma, he held himself away from complications but he was a damn fine doctor.
“Shay Green stood in the corridor, shoulders wide enough to make it difficult for anyone to pass. His presence was more than just physical thought; Shay had always drawn all eyes to him. He had something few people did, a magic that pulled people into his eddy and made them feel as if they would never drown.”
Dr Thea, after marrying Shay in Vegas and disappearing the next morning off to the ends of the earth for ten long years, was a compassionate humanitarian and a healer, a great doctor.
“I stepped out of the room and straight into the path of a man whose eyes were blazing with dark anger.
I didn’t see the knife he was carrying;…”
Characters who love deeply and banter well. I would expect nothing else from Ms Dyer! I devoured this book in one day, I loved it. Shay exceeded expectations and Thea was amazing. It was great to see all of the extended Callaghan and Green families as well as a few nuggets pointing to future books. That being said it can be read as a stand-alone novel with hea. I received an arc of this book.
5 stars
January 23, 2023
Ten years ago, Thea and Shay got married in Vegas. The next day, Thea was gone, she left for Médecins sans Frontières. Not saying goodbye to Shay, almost destroyed both of them.
Now, she’s back, and she’s working in the same hospital as Shay. They feel like strangers to each other, but neither wants a divorce right now. They make an agreement to stay married for another six months and to see what the future will bring for them.
Shay didn’t know where his wife went to after their first night as husband and wife. He tried to contact her, but she only sent postcards in return. They never got over each other in those ten years, but neither was faithful to the other.
I love how they reconnect and that the spark is still there. It takes time to get over the past, but together they are stronger.
Now, she’s back, and she’s working in the same hospital as Shay. They feel like strangers to each other, but neither wants a divorce right now. They make an agreement to stay married for another six months and to see what the future will bring for them.
Shay didn’t know where his wife went to after their first night as husband and wife. He tried to contact her, but she only sent postcards in return. They never got over each other in those ten years, but neither was faithful to the other.
I love how they reconnect and that the spark is still there. It takes time to get over the past, but together they are stronger.
January 24, 2023
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is Thea and Shea's story and its also book 4 in this series. Each book is supposed to stand alone and while you could read this story as a stand alone, I encourage you to read "The Romance Rehearsal" first. In fact I stopped reading this book and re-read that book so it could all be fresh in my mind because this book runs concurrent with that book and both Shea and Thea are major characters in that book as well as in this book.
This book was just absolutely awesome. At times I was frustrated because its also a very complicated situation and Shea is the wronged party and he really made her pay for her mistakes and does not forgive easily.
Thea and Shea have been married for ten years. But they have not seen each other until now. Its very much a reversal in that Shea is the wronged partner in this story and Thea did the runway bride thing but after the wedding and wedding night. She did mail him postcards but they have not talked since their wedding night. That is until she ends up back in London.
The ties between Thea and Shea are very complicated and I loved that author explored that. In "Romance Rehearsal" we see Thea and Shea's siblings get their second chance but what no one knows is that 10 years before their siblings knew each other very well and married. Then they also both end up in London and work in the same specialty and also the same hospital. It makes for an extremely complicated second chance.
Shea has a lot of anger for how Thea treated him and I loved how honest he is with her about his feelings and thoughts. My heart broke for these two as they had a really hard road to finding their happily ever after. This is a wonderful story about second chances, love, family, and forgiveness and its one of my top reads this year.
This is Thea and Shea's story and its also book 4 in this series. Each book is supposed to stand alone and while you could read this story as a stand alone, I encourage you to read "The Romance Rehearsal" first. In fact I stopped reading this book and re-read that book so it could all be fresh in my mind because this book runs concurrent with that book and both Shea and Thea are major characters in that book as well as in this book.
This book was just absolutely awesome. At times I was frustrated because its also a very complicated situation and Shea is the wronged party and he really made her pay for her mistakes and does not forgive easily.
Thea and Shea have been married for ten years. But they have not seen each other until now. Its very much a reversal in that Shea is the wronged partner in this story and Thea did the runway bride thing but after the wedding and wedding night. She did mail him postcards but they have not talked since their wedding night. That is until she ends up back in London.
The ties between Thea and Shea are very complicated and I loved that author explored that. In "Romance Rehearsal" we see Thea and Shea's siblings get their second chance but what no one knows is that 10 years before their siblings knew each other very well and married. Then they also both end up in London and work in the same specialty and also the same hospital. It makes for an extremely complicated second chance.
Shea has a lot of anger for how Thea treated him and I loved how honest he is with her about his feelings and thoughts. My heart broke for these two as they had a really hard road to finding their happily ever after. This is a wonderful story about second chances, love, family, and forgiveness and its one of my top reads this year.
January 21, 2023
* “I wanted her to tell me why she disappeared that morning with my ring on her finger and my heart in her hands.”
Holly mother , first I want to thank Annie for an early copy of one of my fav series ( I will catch up with the Callaghan series , I promise) . When I first started the series last year on the 25 of March I was head over heels by this woman , I mean the wedding agreement is that book for real !
Now here we are in the last book of the series and we meet Shy story with his long lost wife and let me told you my friend, this book was everything I wish and more !!
I don’t know if I’m over there emotional or I cry for everything but swear I just keep crying, Thea and Shy story was one for the books- ( yes literally) I like this book more that i did the romance Rehearsal that by the way also got me on my knees but the true is that Annie writing can win any heart very easy .
I wish we saw more of Cat , i she is my fav Green sister ⭐️ and while we are on the subject… can we get a Mel book ? She is my fav nurse 👏🏽 .
This book made me laugh and cry all at once I’m trying very hard not to put any spoilers. the way their relationship grow was phenomenal and how I the same time they were still the same person, Dr David was a funny surprise while the Callaghan Cousin were as always the comic relief I need it … I’m looking at you seph ❤️🔥
I also love the little cross over between this series and her soon to be released
New series “puffin Bay “ I can’t wait to meet Roman to be honest … he seen fun and hot 🥵
If you looking for a phenomenal series to start this weekend don’t forget to read this one starting with “the Marriage Agreement “ you can thank me later !!!!
January 23, 2023
I’m a fan of Annie Dyer, it all started when I won a signed book of hers called Endless Blue Seas. Her stories include Anglesey, which is my home, so it always feels a little more special.
The Imperfect Propsal didn’t disappoint.
Thea and Shay have a past going back 10 years. Vegas and Elvia played a part in it. Then she disappeared. Dr Shay Green gets a bit of a shock when he finds himself in a storeroom with a colleague and recognises her voice. After all this time, there she is, working at the hospital he’s working at.
Is there a chance for them or did she mess it all up when she up and left.
I already knew of some of the characters in the story from The Romance Rehersal with her brother and his sister, Maven and Anthony. I do love when a book continues with the other characters in the background. Now looking forward to Puffin Bay and following Amelie and I can second guess who will feature in that story! I can’t wait!
The Imperfect Propsal didn’t disappoint.
Thea and Shay have a past going back 10 years. Vegas and Elvia played a part in it. Then she disappeared. Dr Shay Green gets a bit of a shock when he finds himself in a storeroom with a colleague and recognises her voice. After all this time, there she is, working at the hospital he’s working at.
Is there a chance for them or did she mess it all up when she up and left.
I already knew of some of the characters in the story from The Romance Rehersal with her brother and his sister, Maven and Anthony. I do love when a book continues with the other characters in the background. Now looking forward to Puffin Bay and following Amelie and I can second guess who will feature in that story! I can’t wait!
January 20, 2023
Being caught in a compromising situation with a colleague is embarrassing enough. When the person catching you is the wife you haven't seen in a decade? Doubly embarrassing and also somewhat complicated...
I always enjoy it when a minor character from previous books gets their own story and turns out to be so much more than the surface facade they show to the world. Shay is one of those, and the author does a wonderful job of portraying his nuances, the reasons behind his feckless womaniser reputation, and his struggles when Thea pops up in his life again. Thea's history and motivations are also explored in detail, and when together on the page, their chemistry is electric. The supporting cast are predominantly old friends if you've read the author's other books, and the hospital backdrop adds an extra layer of drama and chaos to what is an unusual and captivating second-chance romance.
Thanks to the author for the advance review copy; all opinions are my own.
I always enjoy it when a minor character from previous books gets their own story and turns out to be so much more than the surface facade they show to the world. Shay is one of those, and the author does a wonderful job of portraying his nuances, the reasons behind his feckless womaniser reputation, and his struggles when Thea pops up in his life again. Thea's history and motivations are also explored in detail, and when together on the page, their chemistry is electric. The supporting cast are predominantly old friends if you've read the author's other books, and the hospital backdrop adds an extra layer of drama and chaos to what is an unusual and captivating second-chance romance.
Thanks to the author for the advance review copy; all opinions are my own.
February 3, 2023
Thea is the daughter of a Viscount and has always been at odds with her parents. They want her to marry well, and have babies. Instead she becomes a doctor and signs up for the European equivalent of Doctors Without Borders. While doing residency in California, she meets Shay Green and they have a whirlwind romance, culminating in a Vegas wedding. But she never tells him about her commitment and the next morning, he wakes up alone.
Ten years later, although he has had one night stands, he’s never forgotten her. When she shows up at the hospital he works at, he doesn’t know what to think. Thea suggests that they try dating for six months before deciding if they want to divorce. But after ending up in bed while on holiday in Puffin Bay, Shay lets his fear of being hurt again run him back to London.
There were more ups and downs in this relationship than a rollercoaster. Every time I thought that they were on the right track I’d realize that there were too many pages left! I liked that this series is tied to others by this author. Fans of the Callaghan Green series will enjoy seeing some updates on favorites as well as seeing Amelie in Puffin Bay.
I enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to everyone.
Ten years later, although he has had one night stands, he’s never forgotten her. When she shows up at the hospital he works at, he doesn’t know what to think. Thea suggests that they try dating for six months before deciding if they want to divorce. But after ending up in bed while on holiday in Puffin Bay, Shay lets his fear of being hurt again run him back to London.
There were more ups and downs in this relationship than a rollercoaster. Every time I thought that they were on the right track I’d realize that there were too many pages left! I liked that this series is tied to others by this author. Fans of the Callaghan Green series will enjoy seeing some updates on favorites as well as seeing Amelie in Puffin Bay.
I enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to everyone.
January 16, 2023
Oh my, I have been dying for this book and it’s finally here! Shay and Thea’s story. We have seen snippets of these two in this fantastic series and man, I could not put this book down! Buckle up and grab the tissues because their story is an intense emotional rollercoaster that gives you whiplash, you never know if this is it or the end for these two! Thea disappeared on Shay in a way that broke him and has been living his life as a doctor and playboy until Thea walks I’m back into his life and hospital. The moment these two see each other again all the pain, heartbreak, and feelings come rushing back, but neither know how to deal with it or each other. As Thea and Shay try to navigate through what happened and look forwards the future, they have to decide if they can forgive and move on or is there just too much pain and damage done to move on from? I loved every minute of this book even if I wanted to throw it or shake the characters at times, the journey is worth the emotional turmoil! Plus, you get to see all the cousins and siblings we have grown to love throughout the different series!
January 26, 2023
Complicated is the word for Shay and Thea’s relationship. I think their second chance was handled well by the author, but wow, what a lot of uncertainty through this story. Shay’s been deeply hurt and the way he handles the situation when Thea returns to the UK and starts working at the same hospital as Shay is admirable. I don’t know if I could be that cool about it. They eventually find their HEA after 10 years of being apart.
January 22, 2023
Behind the humor lies complicated emotions. Shay and Thea are adorably, clueless when it comes to matters of the heart. From constant missteps to a connection that runs deep enough that time will not let them escape. Dyer delivers a perfectly, imperfect charmer. A flawed romance that sticks to the heart.
January 15, 2023
Shay's book is finally here!!!!!! If, like me, you have been desperate for his story since he first made an appearance in Evergreen, the wait is finally over, and let me tell you, it was worth the wait!
10 years ago, Shay and Thea got married in Vegas. The next day, Thea left Shay, and other than the fact that Thea would send Shay a postcard now and again, he never heard from her until she rocked up in the hospital he work's in!
Even though Shay trys to avoid Thea as much as possible when they are in the same room the fire, passion, and chemistry is undeniable!
From the minute I started reading their story I couldn't put it down, you go through all the emotions with them!
I always love when my favourite characters make an appearance, it's always fun catching up with old friends!
I might have shed a few tears at the end......all happy tears! If I could give this book 10 stars I would!
January 26, 2023
With how much I love Annie Dyer's books, I shouldn't be suprised at how much I love The Imperfect Proposal, but here I am shocked with each book at how much I obsess over her books.
I've been waiting for Shay's book for a while now and it was worth the wait. The build up from The Romance Rehersal made this book so much sweeter. I love Shay and I love how honest he was during the entire book about his feelings. There was no miscommunication between Thea and Shay, just straight honesty and mess ups while they figure out how they feel about each other and their path forward.
Thea's letters to Shay added so much to the story and I loved reading each one of them. I can't wait to see Thea and Shay in future books.
I also loved the set up introduction to Puffin Bay and can't wait to read that series! Finally, as Max and Victoria are easily one of my favorite couples, I loved their presence in this book!
I've been waiting for Shay's book for a while now and it was worth the wait. The build up from The Romance Rehersal made this book so much sweeter. I love Shay and I love how honest he was during the entire book about his feelings. There was no miscommunication between Thea and Shay, just straight honesty and mess ups while they figure out how they feel about each other and their path forward.
Thea's letters to Shay added so much to the story and I loved reading each one of them. I can't wait to see Thea and Shay in future books.
I also loved the set up introduction to Puffin Bay and can't wait to read that series! Finally, as Max and Victoria are easily one of my favorite couples, I loved their presence in this book!
January 16, 2023
I am so in love with Shay’s and Thea’s story. I adore a good second chance, and boy, did Annie Dyer deliver in this phenomenal book!
After being left by Thea day after their wedding, Shay immersed himself in his work as an emergency physician, as well as non committal flings with the opposite sex.
Fast forward 10 years, and the beautiful Thea reappears in his life. She’s been providing care and humanitarian relief in the world’s most needed corners, and shocks Shay with her return.
I so enjoyed the captivating story line, the banter between the protagonists, as well as catching up with all of my favorite characters from the Callaghan-Green world. I couldn’t put this book down and devoured it in one sitting! Definitely recommend to all romcom enthusiasts.
After being left by Thea day after their wedding, Shay immersed himself in his work as an emergency physician, as well as non committal flings with the opposite sex.
Fast forward 10 years, and the beautiful Thea reappears in his life. She’s been providing care and humanitarian relief in the world’s most needed corners, and shocks Shay with her return.
I so enjoyed the captivating story line, the banter between the protagonists, as well as catching up with all of my favorite characters from the Callaghan-Green world. I couldn’t put this book down and devoured it in one sitting! Definitely recommend to all romcom enthusiasts.
January 26, 2023
WOW! I really enjoyed this book, it was funny, heartbreaking and loving all at the same time, so many feelings all at once throughout the whole book.
Thea and Shay have been married for ten years, but have lived their entire married life apart! When Thea finds Shay in a compromising situation at her new work place, the same hospital as Shay works, they both realise without talking to each other that they still have feelings for each other.
The problem is the trust is gone, and Shay is not sure he can forgive Thea. Thea regrets leaving Shay when and how she did, but the good she did in those ten years was more than she had ever hoped to achieve.
Can they move past the trust issues and form a new relationship together or has the past been to painful to move forward.
Thea and Shay have been married for ten years, but have lived their entire married life apart! When Thea finds Shay in a compromising situation at her new work place, the same hospital as Shay works, they both realise without talking to each other that they still have feelings for each other.
The problem is the trust is gone, and Shay is not sure he can forgive Thea. Thea regrets leaving Shay when and how she did, but the good she did in those ten years was more than she had ever hoped to achieve.
Can they move past the trust issues and form a new relationship together or has the past been to painful to move forward.
January 20, 2023
I absolutely loved Thea and Shay’s story!! I have been waiting for their story and it did not disappoint. Their ups and downs, banter and chemistry make this unputdownable. I also loved seeing some of our other favorite characters make cameos. Loved this HEA!!
January 15, 2023
This is the much awaited and anticipated story of Shay, and Thea. Wow! I’ve wanted to learn his story for a long time and finally got to read it. Now I finally understand him and definitely fell in love with him as well. He’s so dedicated to his work and his true love. I was mad at Thea, but later on, after understanding why she did what she did, how they stayed connected somehow despite being apart, I started to like her. Also, I like Seph even more now, he’s just too cute not to! I have to say I definitely loved this story, the descriptions of the places, the feelings, the people. I want more of their story, of their life!
Also, have to add I hope the next book is Amelie’s story. She has been a constant in the Callaghan-Green family lives, so I want to know her story.
Also, have to add I hope the next book is Amelie’s story. She has been a constant in the Callaghan-Green family lives, so I want to know her story.
January 12, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! Shay and Thea have been married for 10 years, but he hasn't seen her since she disappeared the morning after they got married in Las Vegas. She sent postcards from the outposts where she worked with médecins sans frontières. Shay never filed for divorce. Then Thea showed up at his current hospital in London. They were so young when they married that they agree to get to know each other again over 6 months to see if they still feel the same.
It's a very emotional and heart-warming journey. One of the things I really like about Annie Dyer's books is how the point of view switches back and forth between the lovers. You experience the doubts, the joy, the passion and heartaches of both sides of the relationship. Characters and family members from previous books reappear, adding depth and credibility to the world she has created. Brilliant.
It's a very emotional and heart-warming journey. One of the things I really like about Annie Dyer's books is how the point of view switches back and forth between the lovers. You experience the doubts, the joy, the passion and heartaches of both sides of the relationship. Characters and family members from previous books reappear, adding depth and credibility to the world she has created. Brilliant.
January 20, 2023
I was so excited to finally read Shay's story! I knew there were layers to Shay and that he went through something painful years ago. Shay has been holding himself back some though he's done a great job working as a dr and staying busy with the ladies and his Callaghan cousins. Turns out 10 years ago Shay married Thea in Vegas but then the next day she left. She would send Shay postcards but that was all. Things changed when she got a post working at the same hospital he works at. I loved their banter as they work through what happened in the past. I even cried some tears at the end. I am so excited for Puffin Bay now.
January 26, 2023
Shay and Thea had so much chemistry!!! A very original, enjoyable and exciting read.
January 26, 2023
Oh how I loved this book!! I knew Shay had been hurt from books in the other series and I was excited to get his story….and let me tell you it did not disappoint! Annie Dyer did a great job of explaining Thea’s disappearance. The chemistry between Shay and Thea was enough to cause a 5 alarm fire! I hated to see this one end!
January 15, 2023
The Imperfect Proposal was absolutely perfect! It made me laugh and even tear up a bit.
Shay was left by Thea a day after their wedding ten years ago. Thea is now back working at the same hospital as Shay. They clearly have quite a bit of unresolved issues.
Shay and Thea are fantastic. I loved the back and forth with them. Will they stay apart, get back together, or move on with other people? We also get to see all of our favorite side characters.
It was definitely one of my favorites of the series. Shay and Thea are such an interesting couple, it's definitely not your typical second chance romance. It's so much more. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ and 🌶 🌶🌶🌶 I absolutely can not wait for Puffin Bay now too!
Shay was left by Thea a day after their wedding ten years ago. Thea is now back working at the same hospital as Shay. They clearly have quite a bit of unresolved issues.
Shay and Thea are fantastic. I loved the back and forth with them. Will they stay apart, get back together, or move on with other people? We also get to see all of our favorite side characters.
It was definitely one of my favorites of the series. Shay and Thea are such an interesting couple, it's definitely not your typical second chance romance. It's so much more. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ and 🌶 🌶🌶🌶 I absolutely can not wait for Puffin Bay now too!
January 22, 2023
Book four in this series finally gives readers Shay Green’s HEA. This book can be read as a standalone. It is written in first person from an alternating dual POV.
I have waited for Shay’s story. In other books, as a secondary character, readers learn that he is quite the playboy who is unwilling to have a real relationship. He does hook-ups but nothing with emotions attached. Then we learn that ten years ago he was married in a Las Vegas wedding only to be left by his bride the next morning. Thea broke Shay’s heart. In this book, we learn that she also broke her own. Thea had sent Shay postcards every few months during her ten-year absence. She had also written letters that she never mailed. These letters are gradually revealed to the reader, and eventually also to Shay. Over the course of the book, readers learn more about Thea and Shay, and why they each made the decisions they did.
When they are reunited, working as doctors in the same hospital department, they still have chemistry. They have a mutual professional respect and admiration for each other. And they have a ton of hurts that have festered and been left unresolved. Neither one of them has been faithful to their vows ten years ago. They need to decide if they want to divorce, pick up where they left off, or start over. Can the deep pains they have be healed?
There are certainly steamy moments between them. Chemistry is not an issue. This book is packed full of deep emotion. Their pain is palpable. They both recognize that they still have feelings for each other but neither one is sure if that will be enough. This was a tough book for me on a few levels. Second chance romance is probably my least favorite trope. Having a couple remain married while sleeping with other people, even though they were not together, is also hard for me to accept. I think the author does an admirable job helping the reader understand the characters’ motivations and feelings. For me, though…I couldn’t really find their actions relatable. They have a will-they-or-won’t-they push-pull through most of the book. I did enjoy the cameos from the Callaghan and Green families. I loved it when Shay and Thea finally figured things out and have their happy ending. Maybe Thea is perfect for Shay. I just always wanted more for him. The amount of hurt seemed insurmountable to me, so kudos to the author for pulling together their HEA.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
I have waited for Shay’s story. In other books, as a secondary character, readers learn that he is quite the playboy who is unwilling to have a real relationship. He does hook-ups but nothing with emotions attached. Then we learn that ten years ago he was married in a Las Vegas wedding only to be left by his bride the next morning. Thea broke Shay’s heart. In this book, we learn that she also broke her own. Thea had sent Shay postcards every few months during her ten-year absence. She had also written letters that she never mailed. These letters are gradually revealed to the reader, and eventually also to Shay. Over the course of the book, readers learn more about Thea and Shay, and why they each made the decisions they did.
When they are reunited, working as doctors in the same hospital department, they still have chemistry. They have a mutual professional respect and admiration for each other. And they have a ton of hurts that have festered and been left unresolved. Neither one of them has been faithful to their vows ten years ago. They need to decide if they want to divorce, pick up where they left off, or start over. Can the deep pains they have be healed?
There are certainly steamy moments between them. Chemistry is not an issue. This book is packed full of deep emotion. Their pain is palpable. They both recognize that they still have feelings for each other but neither one is sure if that will be enough. This was a tough book for me on a few levels. Second chance romance is probably my least favorite trope. Having a couple remain married while sleeping with other people, even though they were not together, is also hard for me to accept. I think the author does an admirable job helping the reader understand the characters’ motivations and feelings. For me, though…I couldn’t really find their actions relatable. They have a will-they-or-won’t-they push-pull through most of the book. I did enjoy the cameos from the Callaghan and Green families. I loved it when Shay and Thea finally figured things out and have their happy ending. Maybe Thea is perfect for Shay. I just always wanted more for him. The amount of hurt seemed insurmountable to me, so kudos to the author for pulling together their HEA.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
January 24, 2023
Dr. Shay Green isn’t one for a serious relationship but that doesn’t mean you won’t find him missing around in one of the rooms, that is until his wife walks through the door.
Thea is also a doctor but left town the morning after her wedding to go overseas and volunteer with Doctors Without Borders. She has written Shay letters for the past 10 years but now she is back looking for a second chance.
Can Thea convince Shay to give their marriage a real chance when there are only a couple of people who even knew they got married in the first place?
This was a good book on second chances and really deciding what is most important in your life.
I hadn’t read any of the other books in this series so I wasn’t familiar with any of the other characters. I think that was ok for the story but I think I did miss some previous character development.
I liked Shea and knew why he hadn’t stayed “true” to his marriage and I didn’t really consider it cheating given that his wife was MIA immediately and he really had no clue on where she was. That being said none of his other “flings” lasted very long as he knew he still had feelings for Thea but didn’t know if she would ever come back.
I got that Thea had already made arrangements to join Doctors without Borders but at the same time I was very disappointed that she left Shea without a word or given him a chance to join her or make some sort of other arrangements. I was also a little surprised that she did want a second chance in the marriage given that she was almost afraid to return and was gone for 10 years.
Obviously there was still chemistry between Thea and Shay and they still cared for each other but there was a lot of trust still needed to build up after Thea had left. Everything fell into place after the serious workplace incident yet there was still so much to figure out.
I was surprised that things took another big turn as I didn’t see that coming. I thought we were finally on the flip side and I was kind of worried when both characters really looked like they were ready to move on after everything that had happened.
The end was good and I was glad they both got what they wanted.
3.5 Stars- Rebecca
Thea is also a doctor but left town the morning after her wedding to go overseas and volunteer with Doctors Without Borders. She has written Shay letters for the past 10 years but now she is back looking for a second chance.
Can Thea convince Shay to give their marriage a real chance when there are only a couple of people who even knew they got married in the first place?
This was a good book on second chances and really deciding what is most important in your life.
I hadn’t read any of the other books in this series so I wasn’t familiar with any of the other characters. I think that was ok for the story but I think I did miss some previous character development.
I liked Shea and knew why he hadn’t stayed “true” to his marriage and I didn’t really consider it cheating given that his wife was MIA immediately and he really had no clue on where she was. That being said none of his other “flings” lasted very long as he knew he still had feelings for Thea but didn’t know if she would ever come back.
I got that Thea had already made arrangements to join Doctors without Borders but at the same time I was very disappointed that she left Shea without a word or given him a chance to join her or make some sort of other arrangements. I was also a little surprised that she did want a second chance in the marriage given that she was almost afraid to return and was gone for 10 years.
Obviously there was still chemistry between Thea and Shay and they still cared for each other but there was a lot of trust still needed to build up after Thea had left. Everything fell into place after the serious workplace incident yet there was still so much to figure out.
I was surprised that things took another big turn as I didn’t see that coming. I thought we were finally on the flip side and I was kind of worried when both characters really looked like they were ready to move on after everything that had happened.
The end was good and I was glad they both got what they wanted.
3.5 Stars- Rebecca
January 26, 2023
I just love this author's writing style. From the first few pages, I'm always sucked right into her stories, and this one was no different.
"He was the first person who'd ever made my heart skip that beat that you never wanted back."
Shay Green and Thea Davies have been secretly married for ten years. Thea disappeared to join Médecins Sans Frontières the morning after they married. Shay never saw her again - only receiving sporadic postcards from her - until she walks in on him hooking up with a nurse.
"When she smiled, I felt like the world was right again. When she laughed, everything was aligned correctly. It terrified the f*ck out of me."
This was another fabulous, heartfelt, sexy read from this author. My heart broke for Shay's pain and hurt - he'd carried them for ten long years never knowing if he'd ever see Thea again. Now that she was back, I felt his confusion and his torment over what to do for the best and if he was willing to risk his heart again. He and Thea had such a natural and deep connection, even when they were working together, they moved in tandem and harmony to get the job done. Thea was travel weary and more than ready to put some roots down. I felt her anguish over leaving Shay, yet she needed to do what she did - just unfortunate that she hurt Shay so badly. I loved that this author was realistic about the ten-year gap - that both Shay and Thea lived like single people, even though their hearts weren't up for grabs. No matter how much time had passed, these two were fated and I thought their HEA was beautiful.
Blog: https://readingwillingable.blogspot.c...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-re...
"He was the first person who'd ever made my heart skip that beat that you never wanted back."
Shay Green and Thea Davies have been secretly married for ten years. Thea disappeared to join Médecins Sans Frontières the morning after they married. Shay never saw her again - only receiving sporadic postcards from her - until she walks in on him hooking up with a nurse.
"When she smiled, I felt like the world was right again. When she laughed, everything was aligned correctly. It terrified the f*ck out of me."
This was another fabulous, heartfelt, sexy read from this author. My heart broke for Shay's pain and hurt - he'd carried them for ten long years never knowing if he'd ever see Thea again. Now that she was back, I felt his confusion and his torment over what to do for the best and if he was willing to risk his heart again. He and Thea had such a natural and deep connection, even when they were working together, they moved in tandem and harmony to get the job done. Thea was travel weary and more than ready to put some roots down. I felt her anguish over leaving Shay, yet she needed to do what she did - just unfortunate that she hurt Shay so badly. I loved that this author was realistic about the ten-year gap - that both Shay and Thea lived like single people, even though their hearts weren't up for grabs. No matter how much time had passed, these two were fated and I thought their HEA was beautiful.
Blog: https://readingwillingable.blogspot.c...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-re...
January 25, 2023
I got the satisfaction of reading a GREAT LOVE STORY and finding yet another ADORABLE fictional man to fall in love with. I’m just speechless to explain how much I enjoyed this book. I was so much into the tale that even before my seminar I was reading this book rather than revising for my speech.
I had a tough time in selecting one quote from this whole book as I liked each and every word ‘SHAY’ and ‘THEA’ spoke.
SHAY - Can anyone please tell me where to find a man, who’ll wait for his wife even though she’s not with him for a decade? That was enough for me to fall in love with him. God! The way he saved her postcards and waited for her. Damn… He wasn’t actually angry that she left him within 24hrs of their married life, But he was so mad that he wasn’t able to know whether his wife was safe or not. He has my heart.
THEA - Coming from the LORD family and standing up for herself, she truly did a good job. I am glad she understood that wherever she went her home was where Shay lived. “There’s nowhere I’d rather be than with you.” When Thea said that to Shay, I almost jumped and laughed so much. They truly deserve each other.
Not to forget there is also some great Comedy in the book that Shay’s family makes. I truly wish for Shay and Thea to have twins as well.
I’m all set to read the next book in this series. Roman and Amelia I am coming to meet you in Puffin Bay.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. Add this to your TBR and enjoy reading a heart touching story.
Thanks a ton for providing me with the ARC of this wonderful book @homeofstorys and @wildfiremarketingsolutions
💜 I’m so glad that I read this book and met my favorite book-boyfriend. *WHISPERS* Don’t tell my other Book-Boyfriends that I told SHAY is my Favorite.
I had a tough time in selecting one quote from this whole book as I liked each and every word ‘SHAY’ and ‘THEA’ spoke.
SHAY - Can anyone please tell me where to find a man, who’ll wait for his wife even though she’s not with him for a decade? That was enough for me to fall in love with him. God! The way he saved her postcards and waited for her. Damn… He wasn’t actually angry that she left him within 24hrs of their married life, But he was so mad that he wasn’t able to know whether his wife was safe or not. He has my heart.
THEA - Coming from the LORD family and standing up for herself, she truly did a good job. I am glad she understood that wherever she went her home was where Shay lived. “There’s nowhere I’d rather be than with you.” When Thea said that to Shay, I almost jumped and laughed so much. They truly deserve each other.
Not to forget there is also some great Comedy in the book that Shay’s family makes. I truly wish for Shay and Thea to have twins as well.
I’m all set to read the next book in this series. Roman and Amelia I am coming to meet you in Puffin Bay.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. Add this to your TBR and enjoy reading a heart touching story.
Thanks a ton for providing me with the ARC of this wonderful book @homeofstorys and @wildfiremarketingsolutions
💜 I’m so glad that I read this book and met my favorite book-boyfriend. *WHISPERS* Don’t tell my other Book-Boyfriends that I told SHAY is my Favorite.
January 26, 2023
Second Chance at it’s best!
After spending so many years away working for Medecins San Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders for our American crowd) after skipping out without a goodbye right after marrying Shay, Thea is back and working in the same hospital as Shay. Shay has to wonder why now, after only receiving postcards from the various locations she’s been to and no other word from her. They are still married in name only, but no one else knows that, and while Thea is a new entity to them, everyone has to wonder why Shay is suddenly acting out of character.
This story had me laughing as Thea and Shay start to reconnect, have worry when Thea is attacked and seriously injured while assisting a patient (which prompts the announcement of their long marriage). I have to admit to getting seriously invested as the two went through the business of relearning each other’s quirks, Thea’s need for independence, and trying to determine if they truly want to remain together.
This is the fourth book in the English Gent Romance series but it can be read as a standalone. If you like Second Chance Romances, I would highly encourage you to pick this one up!
After spending so many years away working for Medecins San Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders for our American crowd) after skipping out without a goodbye right after marrying Shay, Thea is back and working in the same hospital as Shay. Shay has to wonder why now, after only receiving postcards from the various locations she’s been to and no other word from her. They are still married in name only, but no one else knows that, and while Thea is a new entity to them, everyone has to wonder why Shay is suddenly acting out of character.
This story had me laughing as Thea and Shay start to reconnect, have worry when Thea is attacked and seriously injured while assisting a patient (which prompts the announcement of their long marriage). I have to admit to getting seriously invested as the two went through the business of relearning each other’s quirks, Thea’s need for independence, and trying to determine if they truly want to remain together.
This is the fourth book in the English Gent Romance series but it can be read as a standalone. If you like Second Chance Romances, I would highly encourage you to pick this one up!
January 26, 2023
The Imperfect Proposal ( The English Gent Romances #4) is a book that should be on every romantic comedy lovers radar, it’s fun, entertaining and witty. I was captivated from the moment I picked up Thea and Shay’s story and I’m sure you will be too.
We all know what’s happens in Vegas should stay in Vegas well that wasn’t the case for Thea and Shay because ten years ago they got hitched in Vegas and then went their separate ways. Shay is shocked when he meets his new colleague, it’s the woman he married all those years ago only to have her walk away the morning after the wedding. The divorce never happened and now they are both in London and she wants to give love a try…….
What follows is an entertaining read that has a couple looking to find each other again, looking to see if the chemistry and attraction is still there but more importantly wondering if the love has survived.
I loved everything about this entertaining read, the banter was witty and the characters easy to love and I have to say Ms Dyer has given us the perfect romantic comedy.
We all know what’s happens in Vegas should stay in Vegas well that wasn’t the case for Thea and Shay because ten years ago they got hitched in Vegas and then went their separate ways. Shay is shocked when he meets his new colleague, it’s the woman he married all those years ago only to have her walk away the morning after the wedding. The divorce never happened and now they are both in London and she wants to give love a try…….
What follows is an entertaining read that has a couple looking to find each other again, looking to see if the chemistry and attraction is still there but more importantly wondering if the love has survived.
I loved everything about this entertaining read, the banter was witty and the characters easy to love and I have to say Ms Dyer has given us the perfect romantic comedy.
January 26, 2023
The Imperfect Proposal was everything I expected and more. It was a read filled with emotions which I was able to relate to very easily. Because of which I was awed and completely lost.
Shay Green is perfection not because he is always right or never makes any mistakes but for his heart. I was upset at Thea for leaving the way she did but as the read progressed I was able to understand her and love her as well.
Although, the situation in which Thea met Shay was awkward after all these years they still share the same bond. There chemistry is off the charts. I loved how there relationship developed and how they got to know each other again. It was too easy to swoon over Shay.
I absolutely loved the bond they shared with there families especially Shay with his cousins. I don't think there is any side character that I disliked. The snippets that we got of Amelia's story has me eagerly waiting for her book.
Though I was content I haven't gotten enough of the couple and wanted more of them.
Thanks to Annie and Wildfire Marketing for the advanced copy.
Shay Green is perfection not because he is always right or never makes any mistakes but for his heart. I was upset at Thea for leaving the way she did but as the read progressed I was able to understand her and love her as well.
Although, the situation in which Thea met Shay was awkward after all these years they still share the same bond. There chemistry is off the charts. I loved how there relationship developed and how they got to know each other again. It was too easy to swoon over Shay.
I absolutely loved the bond they shared with there families especially Shay with his cousins. I don't think there is any side character that I disliked. The snippets that we got of Amelia's story has me eagerly waiting for her book.
Though I was content I haven't gotten enough of the couple and wanted more of them.
Thanks to Annie and Wildfire Marketing for the advanced copy.
January 26, 2023
This book was amazing 😍
This is the story of Shay and Thea that meet in America and get married in Vegas, and next day she goes to Niger with MSF. And then they meet again 10 years later. They are still married. So what will happen?
Let me tell you what happens... The most beautiful love story 💕 a story of family ties, of second chances, of finding your other half and of fighting for happiness 💕
I absolutely loved the characters and their story, the chemistry that sparked between them, the fact that we got a sneak peek at what Thea felt during her time away.
And Annie truly is an amazing writer. Your writing made me feel like I was part of their story and their family 💕 Amazing 💕
So my advice is to run and get it and read it NOW! You can't miss this amazing book 💕
This is the story of Shay and Thea that meet in America and get married in Vegas, and next day she goes to Niger with MSF. And then they meet again 10 years later. They are still married. So what will happen?
Let me tell you what happens... The most beautiful love story 💕 a story of family ties, of second chances, of finding your other half and of fighting for happiness 💕
I absolutely loved the characters and their story, the chemistry that sparked between them, the fact that we got a sneak peek at what Thea felt during her time away.
And Annie truly is an amazing writer. Your writing made me feel like I was part of their story and their family 💕 Amazing 💕
So my advice is to run and get it and read it NOW! You can't miss this amazing book 💕
January 23, 2023
Shay and Thea have a history, and honestly at the beginning of this book I was like but why would Thea do that? Throughout the book, her reasoning didn’t make sense and I felt like it was a cop out. On the other hand, I could see the love and chemistry existed between them both and for that reason alone, I was like okay, I can live with it.
Shay is my favourite character, his interactions with his colleagues, friends and of course Thea is a joy to read. Shay and Thea work together and I honestly find it funny how they were ‘reunited’ – that awkward scene was definitely a laugh I needed. I loved seeing other characters pop in and overall this book was a relaxed read that I thoroughly enjoyed. I definitely would recommend this book.
Shay is my favourite character, his interactions with his colleagues, friends and of course Thea is a joy to read. Shay and Thea work together and I honestly find it funny how they were ‘reunited’ – that awkward scene was definitely a laugh I needed. I loved seeing other characters pop in and overall this book was a relaxed read that I thoroughly enjoyed. I definitely would recommend this book.
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