The Proposal

A novel of dark intrigue, blazing passion, and a glorious garden from award-winning author Margaret Evans Porter.

When a lonely young widow and a mysterious earl clash over a neglected castle garden, suspicion and secrets threaten a blossoming love.

Sophie Pinnock, a talented and determined landscape designer, arrives at Bevington Castle seeking redemption for past deceits—only to become entangled in a fresh one. She can’t reveal to her enigmatic employer her yearning to preserve rather than replace his decayed formal gardens. And she firmly declares her reluctance to be his mistress. But should she become his wife?

Cassian Carysfort, the new Earl of Bevington, returned to England to claim his title and inheritance. LSophie, as elusive as she is rebellious, repeatedly defies his expectations. When confronted with tragedy and loss, Cass discovers that the lady’s heart is the most valuable treasure of all—the one he knows he doesn't deserve.

“Engaging romance with winning characters and eloquent dialogue.”
--Teresa Medeiros, New York Times bestselling author

“Part romance, part mystery, a highly entertaining read.”
--M.K. Tod, author of Lies Told in Silence

"A sensitive romance filled with radiant characters . . . intricate historical details . . . . Ms. Porter's homage to the era's posh gardens provides a reinvigorating twist to a fabulous Regency romance.”
--Under the Covers

“A spritely, determined heroine and assorted secondary characters—both charming and unsavory—stand out in this late-Georgian romance.”
--Library Journal

“Very sensual...lush in detail. Her characters have just as much depth as the settings, and the gardens provide a wonderful backdrop for a tender love story.”
--Affaire de Coeur

“Decidedly different...totally believable and deeply heartfelt.”
--Rendezvous