Daisy Thorn's The Proposal Pact is a delightful romp through the charmingly chaotic world of Loverly Cave, a small town where the local Granny Gang has taken matchmaking into their own hands. This novel is a refreshing take on the fake marriage trope, blending humor, heart, and a touch of chaos into a narrative that is as colorful as its characters.

At the heart of the story is the unlikely duo of Shrek and Sophie Levidis. Shrek, whose real name is not revealed in the blurb, is a man desperate to escape the well-meaning but overbearing clutches of the Granny Gang. His solution? A fake marriage proposal to Sophie, a whirlwind of energy and eccentricity. The premise is simple yet effective, setting the stage for a series of comedic and heartfelt moments that explore themes of love, identity, and the courage to embrace change.

**Character development** is one of the novel's strongest suits. Shrek is initially portrayed as a man who has closed himself off from the idea of love and family, scarred by past experiences. His reluctance to engage with the Granny Gang's matchmaking efforts is both humorous and relatable, capturing the universal fear of vulnerability and the unknown. As the story progresses, Shrek's character arc is beautifully crafted, revealing layers of depth and emotion that make his journey both compelling and satisfying.

Sophie, on the other hand, is a vibrant contrast to Shrek's initial stoicism. Her "crazy, colorful lifestyle" and "extreme hockey obsession" are not just quirks but integral parts of her character that add richness to the narrative. Sophie's lack of a filter and her unabashed embrace of life make her an endearing and memorable character. Through her interactions with Shrek, she becomes a catalyst for his transformation, challenging him to step out of his comfort zone and confront his fears.

The **themes** of the novel are woven seamlessly into the narrative. At its core, The Proposal Pact is about the power of love to heal and transform. Shrek's journey from a man who has sworn off love to someone who finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Sophie is a testament to the novel's exploration of love's unpredictable nature. The story also delves into the idea of community and belonging, as Shrek navigates the pressures and expectations of his small-town life.

Humor plays a significant role in the novel, providing a lighthearted counterbalance to the more serious themes. The interactions between Shrek and Sophie are filled with witty banter and comedic moments that keep the narrative engaging and entertaining. The Granny Gang, with their relentless matchmaking efforts, adds an additional layer of humor, serving as both a source of conflict and comic relief.

Thorn's writing style is both engaging and accessible, drawing readers into the world of Loverly Cave with vivid descriptions and lively dialogue. The pacing is well-executed, allowing for moments of introspection and character development without sacrificing the story's momentum. The novel's setting, a small town with its own unique quirks and traditions, is brought to life through Thorn's attention to detail and her ability to capture the essence of small-town life.

In comparison to other works in the fake marriage genre, The Proposal Pact stands out for its emphasis on character growth and emotional depth. While the trope is a familiar one, Thorn's approach is fresh and engaging, offering readers a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The novel shares similarities with works by authors like Sally Thorne and Christina Lauren, who also excel in creating romantic comedies with heart and humor.

Overall, The Proposal Pact is a charming and heartwarming read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and those who enjoy stories about personal growth and the transformative power of love. Daisy Thorn has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and meaningful, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned. Whether you're a fan of the fake marriage trope or simply looking for a feel-good read, The Proposal Pact is a book that delivers on all fronts.