Proposal [Large Print] [Hardcover]

I have read the other reviews of this book and I think that the other readers should stop and think a little before blasting such a talented writer. I have been a fan of Lori Wick for many years now and own every one of her books. I agree with some of the reviewers that the character development could have been better, and that everything seems hunky-dory. I have enjoyed some of her other books better than this one. But think about it. This is not, I repeat not, a devotional book. It is not really intended to be like modern life or else it would be written in modern times. One reader lambasted the author for trying to be like Jane Austin but falling short of the mark. Ms. Wick herself even goes so far as to say that in her own introduction. Also, anyone who has read or tried to read Austin will know that Wick will have to write for today's audiences since Austin is a hard read for MANY in today's world. Another reader (maybe the same one) stated that the characters seemed stiff and unemotional. Well, read contemporary authors of the early 1800's (Austin, Bronte, etc.) and one will see that the people back then WERE stiff and formal and they did not show their emotions as we do nowadays.
And as for everyone being perfect, including the kids, every once in a while I like to read such a story to inspire me as to how I should be. All of Lori Wick's books have characters who inspire me to be better than I am. This book is chalk full of them. And yes, I do know some kids who are as well behaved as the Jennings and Palmer kids. I was even one of them when I was their age.

From a writer's point of view (being and aspiring one myself) this book had to have been fun to dream and write about. Who wouldn't want kids like the Palmers and Jennings kids. Who wouldn't want to have a relationship such as Lydia and Mr. Palmer (with the excetion of calling each other Mr. and Mrs., which was a cultural thing of the times)? And who wouldn't want to be like the energetic and sweet Marianne? After writing such an emotional ride as Bamboo and Lace, I'm sure that Lori needed an easier book to write. One cannot expect ANY writer to produce a brilliant book every time he or she writes. I expect that we will see more like her better ones in the future, but for now just be patient, look for the good in things, and enjoy The Proposal.