The Dating Proposal

THE DATING PROPOSAL by Lauren Blakely is a contemporary, adult, stand alone, erotic romance story line focusing on podcaster and app developer Chris McCormick, and fashion blogger McKenna Bell. NOTE: THE DATING PROPOSAL was originally released as Trophy Husband in 2013 but the author has re-written and reimagined the tale of Chris and McKenna. Told from dual first person points of view (Chris and McKenna) THE DATING PROPOSAL follows fashion blogger McKenna Bell, one year after her ex-fiancé dumped her the day before their wedding. In the ensuing time, our heroine has focused on her blog, never considering reentering the world of dating or love. When her friend’s cat knocks over her hard drive, our heroine will come face to face with her future. Enter Chris McCormick, the man with whom McKenna will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Chris and McKenna, and the potential fall-out as McKenna’s issues of trust come to the forefront when her relationship with Chris ventures into serious territory. Chris McCormick doesn’t do work-place relationships but watching McKenna Bell’s hilarious videos gave Chris an idea for his own struggling show. From friendship to lovers, Chris is willing to take the step from fun to something more, but it is the something more that frightens McKenna into remembering what was, and what may be. The relationship between Chris and McKenna is one of immediate attraction: their sassy back and forth conversations are flirty and fun; it is only a matter of time before the heart succumbs to love and a happily ever after. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text. The secondary and supporting characters are an eclectic mix of family and friends, cats and dogs, and exes with their new found mates. We are introduced to Chris’s best friend Cooper, and his boss Bruce; McKenna’s sister Julia; friends Andy, Hayden and her daughter Erin. THE DATING PROPOSAL is a sexy and energetic story of romance and love. The premise is entertaining and seductive; the characters are lively and fun; the romance is captivating and desirous.

I loved this new and fresh, re-imagining of McKenna and Chris's romance! I read Trophy Husband when it was released and loved both characters then. But this is a whole new wonderful story with the perfect blend of sass, wit, and steam. McKenna is ready to explore the dating world after recovering from a devastating breakup. She is strong, funny, and relatable. She has a confidence and spring in her step that draws people in. When she has a 'cat'astrophy, she meets Chris, a sexy surfer geek who helps her out. They are wildly attracted to each other, but aren't looking for attachments. They forge a working relationship that makes their desires forbidden. But while McKenna continues to date, Chris begins to rethink all his rules. I really love Chris and McKenna, they are so perfect for each other and completely adorkable. I love their fun banter, the fun they have together, and their fiery passion that's off the charts. Ms. Blakely expertly creates genuine, authentic characters in her smart, funny and heartfelt stories. This book is another brilliant, clever, sexy romance that totally satisfies!

I can always count on Lauren Blakely to deliver when it comes to romcoms! The Dating Proposal is a fun, low angst, and slightly taboo work place romance. Chris and McKenna are the perfect amount of nerdy and sweet together and they have such incredible chemistry. Their attraction to the other is instant and their easy going banter and playful innuendo set the stage for a delicious slow burn build up. I loved seeing these two toe the line between friendship/co-workers and more. I think the most refreshing thing about the book though is that these are mature adults who talk openly and honestly (for the most part) with each other. There might be a misstep or two, but they don't let it fester or explode into a huge deal. I really enjoyed the pop culture references (I will never look at Q*bert the same again!) and had a smile on my face almost the entire time reading this. Fans of Lauren Blakely are sure to love it too! *I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*