A Proposal They Can't Refuse

Bookseller recommendation

“Three things initially called me to this book: 1) a fake engagement plot between childhood friends turned enemies 2) Puerto Rican family antics that are much too similar to my Dominican family antics and 3) the clever use of Godfather references. I opened it ready for a funny, light read with troublemaking grandpas at the forefront. And I did get that, but what I also got was a story of love, sacrifice, family, and passion that I will cherish forever. Liam and Kamilah came from two completely different cultures and backgrounds, and yet with the same unwavering dedication to family and legacy. Seeing the reflections in them, in their families, and in the restaurant and distillery was great, and seeing the way they understood each other because of them was even greater. (Can we say the bar is low when I was kicking my feet when Liam would speak Spanish in the accent he picked up from the Vegas? Perhaps, but alas.) The last 15% of this book had me sobbing, validating all of the conflicting emotions that come with being part of a huge family with endless expectations and a constant need to self-sacrifice. I don't think I've ever really read the distinction between sacrifice and matyrdom in the name of "Familia Primero" done so well and with so much care. It wasn't a tale where the girl cuts her toxic family off to be herself. It was a tale of a family with toxic tendencies who loved each other enough to be willing to learn and grow, and that's all we can ask for. ”

— Paola Vanessa • Steamy Lit

Bookseller recommendation

“Puerto-Rican chef Kamilah and Irish distiller Liam, once childhood friends-turned enemies, are forced to fake an engagement to appease the fates, otherwise known as their cunning, geriatric grandfathers. Featuring a boisterous family, detailed descriptions of whiskey, and sexy tension between the two leads, Natalie Caña establishes herself as an exciting new voice in literary rom-coms.”

— Sofia • Phoenix Books