The Decent Proposal: A Novel

“A moving love letter to Los Angeles and a thoughtful rumination on what people can mean to one another.” —Taylor Jenkins Reid, New York Times–bestselling author of Daisy and the Six

A struggling Hollywood producer, Richard Baumbach is twenty-nine, hung-over, and broke. Ridiculously handsome with an innate charm and an air of invincibility, he still believes good things will come his way.

At thirty-three, Elizabeth Santiago is on track to make partner at her law firm. Known as “La Máquina” The Machine—to her colleagues, she’s grown used to avoiding anything that might derail her quiet, orderly life.

Richard and Elizabeth’s paths collide when they receive a proposal from a mysterious, anonymous benefactor. They’ll split a million dollars if they agree to spend at least two hours together—just talking—every week for a year. Astonished and more than a little suspicious, they each nevertheless say yes. Richard needs the money and likes the adventure of it. Elizabeth embraces the challenge of shaking up her life a little more. Both agree the idea is ridiculous, but why not?

What ensues is a delightful journey full of twists, revelations, hamburgers, classic literature, poppy music, and above all love, in its multitude of forms.

“Delightful . . . a page-turning tale brimming with heart.” —Booklist, starred review

“Artful and arresting.” —Library Journal

“Smart and observant..” —Shelf Awareness

“A romantic tale with a heart and a brain—and a mystery that will keep you turning the pages.” —W Magazine

© 2023 Harper (Ebook): 9780062391605

Release date

Ebook: 21 November 2023