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A Modest ProposalMichele Ashman Bell

General fiction

A Modest Proposal

by Michele Ashman Bell

Book 1 of the Butterfly Box series

373 pages · First published 2008

A heroine presents a proposal designed to solve a practical problem rather than to begin a sweeping romance. The gentleman receiving it has reasons to question both the plan and the woman behind it, but circumstances make outright refusal less simple than it first appears. Their negotiated arrangement gradually exposes compatibility neither included in the original terms. Michele Ashman Bell’s romance uses the deliberately unromantic proposal as a framework for a clean story about commitment, compromise, and the feelings that develop after two people begin with practicality instead of passion.

Paired for this story

Honest Orange Spritz + Smart House Sour

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At a glance

Know what you're getting into

Spice1 of 5
Suspense1 of 5
Creepy0 of 5
What do these symbols mean? →

No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Family dysfunction and past tragedy; romantic disappointment and pressure to marry; friendship conflict; Latter-day Saint religious/cultural themes

Alcohol-Free Pour

Honest Orange Spritz

A bright, refreshing sip suits romantic anticipation and a little escapism.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Fill a glass with ice. Add orange juice, top with sparkling water, and garnish with rosemary.
  2. Garnish: Rosemary sprig and orange wheel.
  3. Glassware: Highball glass.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Smart House Sour

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

A crisp botanical pour suits romantic anticipation and a little escapism.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled coupe or over fresh ice.
  2. Garnish: Lemon twist.
  3. Glassware: Coupe.

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