Contemporary Authors

• Baby, It's Cold Outside Pocket Books (New York, NY), 2014
• Loving Cara Pocket Books (New York, NY), 2014
• Seducing Lauren Pocket Books (New York, NY), 2014
• Falling for Jillian Pocket Books (New York, NY), 2015
• Listen to Me William Morrow (New York, NY), 2016
• Close to You William Morrow (New York, NY), 2016
• Blush for Me William Morrow (New York, NY), 2017
• The Beauty of Us William Morrow (New York, NY), 2017

1. The beauty of us LCCN 2017276609 Type of material Book Personal name Proby, Kristen, author. Main title The beauty of us / Kristen Proby. Edition First edition. Published/Produced New York William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, [2017] ©2017 Description 290 pages ; 21 cm. ISBN 9780062674876 (paperback) 0062674870 (paperback) CALL NUMBER PS3616.R6265 B43 2017 Copy 1 Request in Jefferson or Adams Building Reading Rooms 2. Blush for me : a Fusion novel LCCN 2017296636 Type of material Book Personal name Proby, Kristen, author. Main title Blush for me : a Fusion novel / Kristen Proby. Edition First edition. Published/Produced New York, NY : William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, [2017] ©2017 Description 309 pages : 21 cm. ISBN 9780062434791 (pbk.) 0062434799 (pbk.) CALL NUMBER PS3616.R6265 B58 2017 CABIN BRANCH Copy 1 Request in Jefferson or Adams Building Reading Rooms - STORED OFFSITE 3. Listen to me : a Fusion novel LCCN 2015034481 Type of material Book Personal name Proby, Kristen, author. Main title Listen to me : a Fusion novel / Kristen Proby. Edition First edition. Published/Produced New York, NY : William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, [2016] Description 320 pages ; 21 cm. ISBN 9780062434753 (softcover) CALL NUMBER PS3616.R6265 L57 2016 CABIN BRANCH Copy 1 Request in Jefferson or Adams Building Reading Rooms - STORED OFFSITE 4. Close to you : a Fusion novel LCCN 2016017337 Type of material Book Personal name Proby, Kristen, author. Main title Close to you : a Fusion novel / Kristen Proby. Edition First edition. Published/Produced New York, NY : William Morrow Paperbacks, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, [2016] Description 302 pages ; 21 cm. ISBN 9780062434760 (trade paperback) CALL NUMBER PS3616.R6265 C59 2016 CABIN BRANCH Copy 1 Request in Jefferson or Adams Building Reading Rooms - STORED OFFSITE 5. Falling for Jillian LCCN 2016659125 Type of material Book Personal name Proby, Kristen. Main title Falling for Jillian / Kristen Proby. Edition First Pocket books paperback edition. Published/Produced New York, New York : Pocket Books, February 2015. Description 322 pages ; 18 cm. ISBN 9781476759388 (paperback) 1476759383 (paperback) CALL NUMBER CPB Box no. 3944 vol. 14 Copyright Pbk Coll FT MEADE Copy 1 Request in Rare Bk/Spec Coll Rdng Rm (Jefferson LJ239) - STORED OFFSITE 6. Seducing Lauren LCCN 2014658522 Type of material Book Personal name Proby, Kristen. Main title Seducing Lauren / Kristen Proby. Edition First Pocket Books paperback edition. Published/Produced New York : Pocket Books, 2014. Description 325 pages, 13 unnumbered pages ; 18 cm. ISBN 9781476759371 (pbk.) 1476759375 (pbk.) CALL NUMBER CPB Box no. 3870 vol. 16 Copyright Pbk Coll FT MEADE Copy 1 Request in Rare Bk/Spec Coll Rdng Rm (Jefferson LJ239) - STORED OFFSITE 7. Loving Cara LCCN 2014657887 Type of material Book Personal name Proby, Kristen author Main title Loving Cara / Kristen Proby. Edition First Pocket Books paperback edition. Published/Produced New York : Pocket Books, 2014. Description 328 pages, 14 unnumbered pages ; 18 cm. ISBN 9781476759005 (pbk.) 1476759006 (pbk.) CALL NUMBER CPB Box no. 3830 vol. 15 Copyright Pbk Coll FT MEADE Copy 1 Request in Rare Bk/Spec Coll Rdng Rm (Jefferson LJ239) - STORED OFFSITE 8. Baby, it's cold outside LCCN 2015288029 Type of material Book Main title Baby, it's cold outside / Jennifer Probst, Emma Chase, Kristen Proby, Melody Anne, Kate Meader. Edition First Pocket Books paperback edition. Published/Produced New York : Pocket Books, 2014. Description 534 pages ; 18 cm ISBN 9781476783833 (paperback) 1476783837 (paperback) Shelf Location FLS2015 130979 CALL NUMBER PS648.C45 B33 2014 OVERFLOWJ34 Request in Jefferson or Adams Building Reading Rooms (FLS2)

• Savor You - 2018 William Morrow Paperbacks, New York, NY
• Stay With Me - 2018 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Kissing Jenna - 2018 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Come Away With Me - 2012 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Fight With Me - 2012 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Charming Hannah - 2018 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Burn With Me - 2018 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Play With Me - 2013 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Rock With Me - 2013 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Forever With Me - 2014 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Breathe With Me - 2014 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Safe With Me - 2013 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Tied With Me - 2014 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Easy Nights - 2017 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Easy Magic - 2017 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Easy Love - 2015 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Easy Charm - 2015 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Easy Kisses - 2016 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Easy Melody - 2015 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• Under The Mistletoe With Me - 2012 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• No Reservations - 2017 Evil Eye Concepts, Incorporated,
• Saving Grace - 2015 Pocket Star, New York, NY
• Tempting Brooke - 2018 Evil Eye Concepts, Incorporated,
• Easy Fortune - 2017 Ampersand Publishing, Chicago, IL
• All the Way - 2018 William Morrow Paperbacks, New York, NY

• Kristen Proby - https://www.kristenprobyauthor.com/meet-kristen

  QUOTE:
  wrote many romance novels and joined organizations such as RWA and other small writing groups. She spent countless hours in workshops, and more mornings than she can count up before the dawn so she could write before going to work. She submitted many manuscripts to agents and editors alike, but was always told no. In the summer of 2012, the self-publishing scene was new and thriving, and Kristen had one goal: to publish just one book. It was something she longed to cross off of her bucket list.

  Kristen was born and raised in a small resort town in her beloved Montana. In her mid-twenties, she decided to stretch her wings and move to the Pacific Northwest, where she made her home for more than a dozen years.

  During that time, Kristen wrote many romance novels and joined organizations such as RWA and other small writing groups. She spent countless hours in workshops, and more mornings than she can count up before the dawn so she could write before going to work. She submitted many manuscripts to agents and editors alike, but was always told no. In the summer of 2012, the self-publishing scene was new and thriving, and Kristen had one goal: to publish just one book. It was something she longed to cross off of her bucket list.

  Not only did she publish one book, she’s since published close to thirty titles, many of which have hit the USA Today, New York Times and Wall Street Journal Bestsellers lists. She continues to self publish, best known for her With Me In Seattle and Boudreaux series, and is also proud to work with William Morrow, a division of HarperCollins, with the Fusion Series.

  Kristen and her husband, John, make their home in her hometown of Whitefish, Montana with their two pugs and two cats.

• Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Kristen-Proby/e/B00CGL33ZU/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1528162984&sr=8-1

  Kristen was born and raised in a small resort town in her beloved Montana. In her mid-twenties, she decided to stretch her wings and move to the Pacific Northwest, where she made her home for more than a dozen years.

  During that time, Kristen wrote many romance novels and joined organizations such as RWA and other small writing groups. She spent countless hours in workshops, and more mornings than she can count up before the dawn so she could write before going to work. She submitted many manuscripts to agents and editors alike, but was always told no. In the summer of 2012, the self-publishing scene was new and thriving, and Kristen had one goal: to publish just one book. It was something she longed to cross off of her bucket list.

  Not only did she publish one book, she’s since published more than thirty titles, many of which have hit the USA Today, New York Times and Wall Street Journal Bestsellers lists. She continues to self publish, best known for her With Me In Seattle and Boudreaux series, and is also proud to work with William Morrow, a division of HarperCollins, with the Fusion Series and Romancing Manhattan series.

  Kristen and her husband, John, make their home in her hometown in Montana with their pug and two cats.

• Happy Ever After - https://happyeverafter.usatoday.com/2018/04/24/mary-dube-kristen-proby-interview-recipes-probst-shalvis-kenner-malpas/

  Interview: Kristen Proby, author of ‘Savor You’ (plus recipes from Kristen and 4 of her author buds)
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  By: Mary Dubé | April 24, 2018 12:00 am
  I’m ecstatic to welcome Kristen Proby to HEA to discuss her latest must-read contemporary romance, Savor You (Fusion #5). The lead characters are both chefs, so cooking plays a starring role in their romance, and the book even includes a cheesecake recipe featured in the story (Kristen shares the recipe below!). To celebrate her food-tastic release, Kristen asked four of her author friends — Jennifer Probst, Jodi Ellen Malpas, Julie Kenner (aka J. Kenner) and Jill Shalvis — to share recipes inspired by their own books!

  Bookstagram by Shayna Renee. Click on the photo to visit her Instagram.

  What Savor You is about:

  Cooking isn’t what Mia Palazzo does, it’s who she is. Food is her passion … her pride … her true love. She’s built a stellar menu full of delicious and sexy meals for her restaurant, Seduction. Now, after being open for only a few short years, Mia’s restaurant is being featured on Best Bites TV. To say Seduction is a wild success is an understatement. All the blood, sweat, tears, and endless hours of work Mia has put into the restaurant has finally paid off.

  Then Camden Sawyer, the biggest mistake of her life, walks into her kitchen …

  Camden’s celebrity chef status is world-renowned. He’s the best there is, and the kitchen is where he’s most at home. He can’t resist the invitation to Portland for a showdown against Mia for a new television show. Mia was in his life years ago, and just like before, he’s met his match in the beautiful Italian spitfire. The way she commands the kitchen is mesmerizing, and her recipes are clever and delicious. He’s never had qualms about competition, and this is no different. He can’t wait to go head to head with Mia. But can he convince her the chemistry they share in the kitchen would be just as great in the bedroom as well?

  As Mia and Camden face off, neither realizes how high the stakes are as their reputations are put on the line and their hearts are put to the ultimate test.

  Why it’s a must-read: Savor You showcases Kristen Proby’s talent for smart and sexy writing, outstanding characterization and snappy dialogue imbued with her deliciously acerbic wit. Camden and Mia were first friends and then lovers in culinary school, but things ended abruptly and sadly between them. They haven’t spoken in 10 years, but their attraction is still burning hot when they reunite to face off in the kitchen. Their connection is quickly reestablished and feels natural and easy, even while they confront their past. They are extremely likable and utterly relatable characters, and their evolution as a couple feels grounded and believable but also heartwarmingly romantic. Savor You is a spicy and delicious second-chance romance with all of the right ingredients. (See an excerpt on HEA from Savor You.)

  INTERVIEW WITH KRISTEN

  Mary: Hi, Kristen! Welcome to HEA! I adore Savor You. Tell us a little about it and the Fusion series.

  Kristen: Hi Mary! Thanks so much for having me! I’m excited that you loved Savor You. This is the fifth, and final, installment in my Fusion series, set in Portland, Oregon. Five best friends own a super trendy restaurant, and each of them has a different role. Mia is the chef, and she and Camden definitely heat up the kitchen!

  Mary: The restaurant in the series, Seduction, sounds unique and amazing. Did you create the concept, or have you been somewhere like it?

  Kristen Proby

  Kristen: I totally made it up. If it exists somewhere, I’d love to visit! I just thought it would be interesting if a restaurant catered to all of the senses, in a super sexy way.

  Mary: Seduction’s co-owners are five best friends, and I love their playful, supportive and loyal relationships. Is their dynamic reflective of your own friendships?

  Kristen: I think the friendships in this series, and in all of my series really, are indicative of what I think true friendship looks like. I do have the same dynamic in my relationships with friends. I think it’s important as women that we support and lift each other up.

  Mary: I love that your stories and characters are always relatable and real. Mia is curvy, and although she is confident, she still struggles to accept her weight and feel beautiful. Was your goal to always make this a part of Mia’s story?

  Kristen: Yes, I’ve known from the beginning of the series that this would be one of Mia’s struggles. I think that most women can identify with this, regardless of our size.

  Mary: What can we expect next?

  Kristen: Up next, we have All the Way, the first in my all new Romancing Manhattan series, which releases in August!

  RECIPES

  Camden’s Award-Winning Cheesecake
  As seen in Kristen’s Savor You

  Crust

  1 1/2 cups graham crumbs

  1/3 cup white sugar

  2/3 cup melted butter

  Directions for crust

  Place graham crumbs and white sugar in a bowl and mix together. Add melted butter and mix until all butter has been incorporated.

  Press into bottom of 9-inch spring form pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes until golden brown. Set aside to cool while making filling.

  Cheesecake filling

  2 lbs. cream cheese, room temperature

  14 oz. white sugar

  1 1/4 oz. cornstarch

  6 eggs

  1 1/2 t. vanilla extract

  8 oz. plain or vanilla yogurt

  Directions for cheesecake filling

  In a mixer with a paddle attachment, mix cream cheese, sugar and cornstarch until smooth, about two to three minutes on medium speed. Scrape down bowl.

  On slow speed, add eggs one at a time, making sure they are fully incorporated before adding the next egg. Continue until all eggs are incorporated. Add vanilla extract. Scrape down bowl.

  Add yogurt in two additions on medium speed until fully combined. Your batter should be creamy and smooth and free of lumps. Scrape down bowl. If there are a few lumps, mix on medium speed for 30 seconds — do not overmix at this stage.

  Pour cream cheese batter into pan over crust. Do not overfill. Bake at 325 degrees F for 45- 60 minutes. Check cheesecake by inserting a sharp knife in the center, if it comes out clean and there is no jiggle to the cake, it is done. If the cake is not done, bake in five-minute increments until knife inserted in center comes out clean.

  Remove from oven and let cool to room temp, refrigerate up to four hours or overnight before serving. Top with fresh strawberries or raspberry sauce or chocolate sauce.

  A Sweet Hot Chris by Jennifer Probst
  Inspired by Any Time, Any Place

  Jennifer: This cocktail recipe was created specifically by my badass mixologist and bar owner heroine, Raven, in the book Any Time, Any Place. It’s called A Sweet Hot Chris. Why, you ask? Because it’s specifically named after all the hot guys named Chris. Like Chris Hemsworth, Chris Pine, Chris Evans, Chris Pratt, etc., etc. Grab the Chris in your life, make a pitcher and get ready for spring! (See an excerpt on HEA from Any Time, Any Place.)

  Ingredients

  1/2 cup sugar

  1/2 cup water

  3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed clementine juice (you can use oranges instead!)

  1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon

  1 1/2 tablespoons simple syrup

  1 oz lemon vodka

  4 dashes of aromatic bitters

  Chilled Champagne Brut

  Rosemary sprigs

  Directions

  Combine the sugar, water, clementine and lemon juice, simple syrup and vodka into a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously.

  Take champagne glasses and put the dash of aromatic bitters at the bottom of each glass.

  Fill glass to approximately 1/4 with the vodka mixture, then fill the rest with champagne.

  Add a rosemary sprig to glass, serve and enjoy!

  Good Morning Sunshine Casserole by Jill Shalvis
  Inspired by The Sweetest Thing

  Jill: My heroine Tara from The Sweetest Thing made this for her sisters, but the recipe actually comes from my Alpha Man, who makes it for all of us here on the weekends. And we practically lick the pan every time. 🙂 p.s. this is not for people watching their calorie intake (which I am, but I ignore that on the weekends. 🙂

  Start with:

  1 layer of tater tots

  1 layer of ham or sausage cubes (or crumbled bacon, whatever makes your skirt blow up)

  1 layer of grated cheddar cheese (there’s no such thing as too much cheese for breakfast)

  Pour this mixture over the layers:

  6 beaten eggs

  1/2 tsp. salt (or more, if no one’s looking)

  1/2 tsp. pepper

  1 tsp. dry mustard

  1/2 cup of chopped onion

  3 cups of milk

  2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

  —

  Add 1/2 cup melted butter over all that.

  Cook, uncovered, one hour at 350 degrees.

  King Prawn Linguine by Jodi Ellen Malpas
  Inspired by The Controversial Princess (coming May 22)

  Jodi: In my house, there are blue jobs and pink jobs. There are two blue jobs: cooking and mowing the lawn. Every single other job in my house is a pink job. Just thought I needed to mention that before I go on …

  I’m not much of a cook. No, wait. I’m doing myself an injustice there. I’m not a bad cook. I just don’t like cooking. I get distracted way too easily. So when I met my boyfriend, I declared cooking a blue job. You know the saying “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? Yeah, not for me. But apparently he’s not with me for my cooking skills (luckily), so we get along just fine. However, there are times when my cook doesn’t get home from work until late, so the blue job becomes a pink job. With a lack of a desire for cooking comes a lack of a desire to have to think about what I will cook. I have a few go-to favourites, all quick and easy to limit my time in the kitchen, but I have an ultimate favourite. I’m a seafood junkie. Love the stuff! I recently mentioned my favourite dish in my recent novel, The Controversial Princess. Princess Adeline’s cook, Dolly, probably pulls it off much better than I do, but given how I feel about cooking, I’m cutting myself some slack. So, I give you the delicious, super-quick king prawn linguine. 🙂

  (I can’t lie, I usually just guess, but to appear even remotely professional here, I’m gonna give you measurements. Honestly, what was Kristen thinking when she called on me for this article?!)

  Ingredients

  2 cloves garlic

  Green chilli (as much as you like)

  150 g king prawns (about 5.5 ounces)

  200 g linguine (about 7 ounces)

  1 tub (about 1 oz.) of concentrated chicken stock (I use Knorr)

  1/2 lemon

  8 oz. crème fraiche

  Directions

  Put a pan of water on to boil with the chicken stock for the linguine.

  Chop your garlic, chilli and prawns. Use a different knife for your raw seafood. Oh, and remove the seeds from your chilli unless you like your head exploding with heat.

  Once your water is boiling, add your linguine and cook for 10 minutes.

  Add olive oil to a pan and cook the chilli and prawns. Add salt and pepper if desired.

  Add the garlic once the prawns are cooked. Cook for another minute-ish.

  Add a few tablespoons of your pasta water to the pan, then add your crème fraiche. Simmer until sauce thickens.

  Drain the pasta, throw it all on a plate and add a squeeze of lemon.

  Voila!

  Pinot Punch by Julie Kenner
  Inspired by Start Me Up

  Julie: I’m so excited for Savor You! As you might be able to tell from the fact that my Man of the Month series is set around a bar famous for its delicious appetizers and awesome drinks (there’s even a tie-in cookbook, Bar Bites: A Man of the Month Cookbook)! There are so many wonderful drinks served at The Fix, but my personal favorite, especially heading into warmer months, is the Pinot Punch. It’s easy to make and is the perfect drink for an outdoor party with its smooth drinkability coupled with just enough fizz to make it dance on your tongue. Plus, it carries a kick, and in Shelby Drake’s case (the heroine of Start Me Up), that kick loosens some deeply ingrained inhibitions when she meets the sexy drive-time radio host Nolan Wood, a man with a wicked sense of humor and essentially no filter. The chemistry between them pops and fizzes, much like this amazing drink! I hope you enjoy! (See an excerpt on HEA from Start Me Up.)

  Ingredients

  1 bottle Pinot Grigio (1.5 liter)

  1/2 cup peach schnapps

  1/2 cup orange juice

  1 bag frozen sliced peaches

  1 liter Sprite

  Directions

  Mix all ingredients, except Sprite, together in a large pitcher.

  Refrigerate for 1 hour.

  Add in Sprite and serve.

  Find out more about the authors and their books at kristenprobyauthor.com, www.jenniferprobst.com, jillshalvis.com, www.jodiellenmalpas.co.uk and juliekenner.com.

  Mary Dubé can be found reading when she’s not teaching spinning, crunching numbers, volunteering or hovering over her teenager. She is always looking to add to her keeper shelf. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

  MORE ON HEA: See more of Mary’s posts

• Goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/interviews/show/1143.Kristen_Proby

  Interview with Kristen Proby
  June, 2016
  24 likes · 8 comments Share
  Kristen Proby
  Warning: Reading a Kristen Proby romance may make you want to pack up all your belongings and move across the country. Her books are as much about falling for a place as they are about falling for a person. In her With Me in Seattle series, she transported readers to the "Emerald City," telling sweet and sexy love stories against a dramatic backdrop of skyscrapers, waterways, and storms. Then she took us to Montana in her Love Under the Big Sky series and to Portland in her Fusion series. Her new book, Easy Kisses, is the next installment in her sizzling Boudreaux series, set in New Orleans. Here hotshot motivational speaker Simon Danbury and feisty, career-oriented Charly Boudreaux mix business with pleasure against their better judgment. With all "professional" rules out the window, they throw themselves into a fling—or a relationship?—neither fully understands.

  Proby answers your questions about why she doesn't believe in writer's block, where she likes to play online, and whose shoes she'd love to step into for the day!

  Want to Read
  Rate this book
  1 of 5 stars2 of 5 stars3 of 5 stars4 of 5 stars5 of 5 stars
  Abigail: What's your recipe for a perfect romance? Tell us your secrets!
  I don't think I have any secrets at all when it comes to romance! In my humble opinion, the perfect romance is all about strong-willed characters who grow and overcome the obstacles that might keep them apart…and always a happy ever after.

  Layla: A BIG thank you for all the hotties you've introduced us to over the years! I've dreamed of writing a romance novel (because I'm a romantic soul), but every time I start to write I get writer's block. Does that ever happen to you? Do you have any advice for overcoming that?
  I don't know that I believe in writer's block. I've certainly had times when every single word literally hurts as I type it. Some days flow better than others. But this is my job, and it's essential to power through those days and write. Nora Roberts said, "I can fix a bad page. I can't fix a blank page."

  Vee: I've never been to Seattle, but I've been wanting to go ever since I fell in love with your With Me in Seattle series. What made you decide to set your books there?
  Thank you! I lived in the Seattle area for the better part of a decade, so it felt natural to set a series there.

  Nora: First of all, I love your books. My question: When you need a break from writing, what do you do?
  I read, play on Pinterest, take a walk with my fiancé, or cook.

  Jay: Not including your own books, of course, what's your favorite romance series? Or what series do you think your fans would enjoy?
  There are so many great books out there! I think both Jill Shalvis and Marie Force write some amazing family sagas.

  Lea Anne: I'm so into your Boudreaux books! First Seattle, now New Orleans…. Do you have any plans to tackle romance in other cities???

  I'm sure I will "move" to other cities when it comes time to write other series. Or perhaps I'll make up a small coastal town somewhere. The best thing about fiction is the sky's the limit!

  Want to Read
  Rate this book
  1 of 5 stars2 of 5 stars3 of 5 stars4 of 5 stars5 of 5 stars

  Want to Read
  Rate this book
  1 of 5 stars2 of 5 stars3 of 5 stars4 of 5 stars5 of 5 stars
  Karen: If you had to pick just one of your characters to hang out with for a day, who would you choose?
  I would love to hang out with any or all of them, of course. Today I'd like to hang out with Charly in her shoe store!

  Juliana: When did you know you wanted to be a writer?
  Since I was a small child. I've always been a storyteller.

  Olivia: Do you have any celebration rituals when you finish writing a book or publish a new one? What are they?
  I take my whole family out to dinner on release day. And if I'm lucky enough to hit a major list, I buy myself a treat! I call it my bonus.

  Booker: What's the craziest story idea you've had that you've never turned into a book?
  Darling, everything goes in a book. ;)

QUOTE:
An engaging read despite lacking an intense conflict beyond what could easily be
solved through simple communication.
Sexy, fun, and touching.

6/4/2018 General OneFile - Saved Articles
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Print Marked Items
Proby, Kristen: SAVOR YOU
Kirkus Reviews.
(Feb. 15, 2018):
COPYRIGHT 2018 Kirkus Media LLC
http://www.kirkusreviews.com/
Full Text:
Proby, Kristen SAVOR YOU Morrow/HarperCollins (Adult Fiction) $15.99 4, 24 ISBN: 978-0-06-267489-
0
A decade after a pregnancy scare drove two up-and-coming chefs apart, a TV show offers them the
opportunity to begin again.
Ten years ago, a positive pregnancy test spurred Mia and Camden to get married, but when she discovered it
was a false positive, she packed her things, wrote him a note, and got a quick divorce. Driven mainly by
youth and insecurity--after all, how could a hottie like Camden care for a heavy girl like her?--Mia walked
away from the only man she'd ever loved, determined to let him find a woman who deserved him. Now Mia
is the genius chef behind Seduction, Portland's hot new restaurant, which she owns with her four best
friends. One of them is married to Trevor, a TV producer who thinks Mia would be great on camera and sets
up a pilot with Camden, now a celebrity chef. Mia's friends are shocked when they learn about her past with
Camden, but working together again, Mia and Camden find they still have blazing chemistry. They can both
admit to themselves that their feelings are still there, but they struggle to share them with each other.
Camden is frustrated by Mia's penchant for putting herself down and her inability to ask for what she wants.
Despite her success, Mia still suffers body insecurity and doesn't trust that Camden truly wants her. Proby's
(No Reservations, 2017, etc.) writing, worldbuilding, and storytelling are strong, and the community Mia's
built around herself is compelling. Camden is an all-round great guy and seems so laid back that we wonder
how he ever made it big. An engaging read despite lacking an intense conflict beyond what could easily be
solved through simple communication.
Sexy, fun, and touching.
Source Citation (MLA 8th
Edition)
"Proby, Kristen: SAVOR YOU." Kirkus Reviews, 15 Feb. 2018. General OneFile,
http://link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/A527248312/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=ITOF&xid=5979569c.
Accessed 4 June 2018.
Gale Document Number: GALE|A527248312
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QUOTE:
With the third book in her Fusion series, Proby proves that she's a vintage that ripens
with each page.

Proby, Kristen: BLUSH FOR ME
Kirkus Reviews.
(Feb. 1, 2017):
COPYRIGHT 2017 Kirkus Media LLC
http://www.kirkusreviews.com/
Full Text:
Proby, Kristen BLUSH FOR ME Morrow/HarperCollins (Adult Fiction) $14.99 3, 21 ISBN: 978-0-06-
243479-1
When Kat hooks up with Mac on her out-of-town sexcation, the last thing she expects is for their no-strings
fling to turn into something deeper.Katrina Meyers is a tough, brilliant wine-bar owner whose anxiety gets
the best of her on her first-ever flight on an airplane. Luckily, a sexy stranger's guidance and support sees
her through to the other side. Ryan "Mac" MacKenzie is in the business of giving wine tours to small
groups, so it's no huge surprise when they meet up at a Napa Valley wine conference. They're attracted to
each other and hook up for mind-blowing sex but agree that they're both too focused on work to let it turn
into a relationship. Still, when Kat returns home, she's disappointed that Mac doesn't call--until he shows up
at her job with a tour. Later, she's surprised to learn that he's recently moved into her building. As Mac and
Kat get to know one another, issues with their parents come up. Kat, it turns out, is a certified genius who
went to college at 16 and has a doctorate in psychology, largely because her scientist parents urged her to
pursue something academic. Mac's father lost his job as a realtor and developed a gambling problem so
serious he lost their home and drove away both Mac and his brother; the boys pay the rent on a place for
their mom, who enables their father's addiction. If this doesn't seem like much of a plot, have no fear.
There's a girl fight, a brief kidnapping, and a baby born. But the real story is the slow, sexy burn of Kat and
Mac's relationship. With the third book in her Fusion series, Proby proves that she's a vintage that ripens
with each page.
Source Citation (MLA 8th
Edition)
"Proby, Kristen: BLUSH FOR ME." Kirkus Reviews, 1 Feb. 2017. General OneFile,
http://link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/A479234760/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=ITOF&xid=8521775e.
Accessed 4 June 2018.
Gale Document Number: GALE|A479234760
6/4/2018 General OneFile - Saved Articles
http://go.galegroup.com/ps/marklist.do?actionCmd=GET_MARK_LIST&userGroupName=schlager&inPS=true&prodId=ITOF&ts=1528164337036 3/3

QUOTE:
there are enough ups and downs to keep the pages turning and a
cliffhanger to spark interest in the sequel

Listen to Me
Publishers Weekly.
263.6 (Feb. 8, 2016): p56.
COPYRIGHT 2016 PWxyz, LLC
http://www.publishersweekly.com/
Full Text:
Listen to Me
Kristen Proby. Morrow, $14.99 trade paper (336p) ISBN 978-0-06-243475-3
After suffering heartbreak in a recent relationship, Addison vows not to get involved with anyone--
especially ex-rock star Jake Keller, whom she's just hired to play in her Portland, Ore., restaurant, aptly
named Seduction. But despite the past sorrows that still haunt them, Jake and Addison find it hard to resist a
dance of mutual attraction and seduction. Titillating foreplay and steamy sex scenes that reduce powerful
businesswomen to avatars of lust are the highlight of this romance. Unfortunately, inconsistency makes it
difficult to identify with the characters. Jake oscillates between a respectful guy and an egotistical cad who's
driven purely by his hunger for Addison's "sexier-than-fuck" body. This lends itself to somewhat superficial
dialogue, which causes the narrative flow to ebb and wane. Although the obstacles for Addison and Jake are
predictable and resolved with relative ease, there are enough ups and downs to keep the pages turning and a
cliffhanger to spark interest in the sequel. Agent: Kevan Lyon, Marsal Lyon Agency. (Apr.)
Source Citation (MLA 8th
Edition)
"Listen to Me." Publishers Weekly, 8 Feb. 2016, p. 56. General OneFile,
http://link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/A443654562/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=ITOF&xid=7141fbcd.
Accessed 4 June 2018.
Gale Document Number: GALE|A443654562

"Proby, Kristen: SAVOR YOU." Kirkus Reviews, 15 Feb. 2018. General OneFile, http://link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/A527248312/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=ITOF. Accessed 4 June 2018. "Proby, Kristen: BLUSH FOR ME." Kirkus Reviews, 1 Feb. 2017. General OneFile, http://link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/A479234760/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=ITOF. Accessed 4 June 2018. "Listen to Me." Publishers Weekly, 8 Feb. 2016, p. 56. General OneFile, http://link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/A443654562/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=ITOF. Accessed 4 June 2018.

• All About Romance
  https://allaboutromance.com/book-review/savor-you-by-kristen-proby/
  Word count: 471

  Savor You
  Kristen Proby

  Buy This Book
  Folks who have followed the previous four books in the Fusion series are well acquainted with Savor You’s heroine, Mia Palazzo. A genius chef, but a touch cantankerous, Mia has zero desire to be in the spotlight. However, when her restaurant, Seduction, gets chosen to be featured on a prestigious foodie show, she can’t turn it down. Mia psyches herself up and is all ready to go, when the human who represents her biggest mistake turns out to be her co-host.

  Camden Sawyer is a world-renowned celebrity chef who is absolutely at the top of his game. (I picture him a bit like an American Jamie Oliver, for what it’s worth). The show is a kitchen throwdown challenge and he’s eager to go up against Mia, someone who was a huge part of his life years ago but has since fallen out of it. When they meet again, she does not disappoint.

  I’ve had a lot of fun with this entire series and have been waiting for Mia’s book since we first met her. I knew there were secrets we weren’t being told and I couldn’t wait to spend time with this woman – so clearly on the top of her game professionally yet completely walled off personally. Savor You was exactly what I was hoping it would be.

  The plot in this book is largely inconsequential and I’ll make your one-click easy for you. Do you like second chance romances? Frenemies-to-lovers? Foodie books? Hot sex between witty people? Visits from previous characters that enrich the book but don’t detract from it if you’ve never read their stories? Then get Savor You.

  Also, if you’re looking for a great palate-cleanser series – you know, the one where you can read five books in a row and be delighted by all of them but need to think about none of them – then Fusion is a great bet all around. The whole series, and this book in particular, will be perfect pool/beach reads for northern hemisphere vacation takers in the coming months. While the copy uses the word ‘next installment’, all signs within the text point to this being the conclusion of journey with these five friends, which makes all the more reason to collect all five works and deep dive into delight.

  Buy it at: Amazon/Barnes & Noble/iBooks/Kobo
  Buy Savor You by Kristen Proby:
  Buy from Amazon.com Get it on iBooks Nook Kobo
  Book Details
  Reviewer: Kristen Donnelly
  Review Date: April 27, 2018
  Publication Date: 04/2018
  Grade: B+
  Sensuality Warm
  Book Type: Contemporary Romance
  Review Tags: Fusion series

• Harlequin Junkie
  http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-savor-you-by-kristen-proby/
  Word count: 1184

  QUOTE:
  Uber romantic and absolutely charming, Savor You definitely lived up to its name. This is the type of love story that I think fans will want to read more than once so they can enjoy every lovely moment over and over again.

  REVIEW: Savor You by Kristen Proby
  Posted April 26th, 2018 by Sara @HarlequinJunkie in Blog, Contemporary Romance, HJ Top Pick!, Review / 6 comments

  HJ_TopPick
  In Savor You (Fusion #5) by Kristen Proby, When Mia Palazzo and her closest friends opened the Portland restaurant Seduction, she knew they could–and would–do amazing things. But their success has even exceeded her own hopes and dreams. The next step in their achievements is a cooking show where Mia will compete with a celebrity chef, who turns out to be not only one of the hottest master chefs in the nation, but also a guy she had a confusing relationship with back in college. Camden Sawyer is one of her biggest regrets. Young and naive, Mia never gave their friendship turned courtship a chance and it’s something she’s always wanted to hash out with him. Getting her chance to do so now will hopefully help them both move on. But even with just one day spent in the same room as Camden and Mia knows the chemistry is as strong as ever, meaning it could once again complicate their lives–although maybe in the best of ways this time.

  ‘I cannot work next to this man every day. I’ll climb him like a damn tree after the first day.’

  Being a chef is all Camden has ever dreamed of. Okay, so if he’s honest, he once had hopes that he would share a future with feisty, beautiful Mia. Their attraction was never the issue. Being immature and not knowing how to communicate was what ultimately ended things between them. But now Camden is looking forward to being in Mia’s life again. Starting with their competition for the TV show. And he’s banking on the fact that the sparks between them on camera will lead to the chance to see if they still have what it takes in the bedroom as well. Although as Camden gets to know Mia as an adult, watching her awe-inspiring talent as a chef, he realizes it isn’t just about the physical connection. He craves to share everything in their lives together. Including being the close knit friends and confidants they once were.

  ‘But I’m pulled to her in a way that has never happened to me before or since her… And now, here I am, ten years later, working with this amazing human who can still take the breath from my lungs.’

  Savor You was everything I hoped it would be and more: Smart, endearingly sweet, sexy, and filled with laughter. What could be better, you ask? How about a superb second chance romance that revolved around some of the yummiest food imaginable, thanks to our lovebirds being master chefs. *dreamy sigh*

  “I love you too, you know. I loved you back then, and I love you all over again.”

  I enjoy a good foodie romance and if anyone can do it up right, it’s Kristen Proby. And I have to say that finally getting Mia’s backstory and watching her find her HEA was wonderful. I’ve been rooting for her since the start of the series. She’s got sass, brains, and rocks a curvy body while she serves up the incredible meals that ultimately defined Seduction as a niche restaurant. If you’ve been following the series, we were thrown a curve ball at the end of The Beauty of Us, learning that Mia had a serious relationship years ago with now celebrity chef Camden. And none of her close girlfriends–the co-owners of Seduction–knew anything about it. Color me surprised and intrigued!

  I simply adored Mia and Camden both as individuals and especially so as a couple. They had very similar views on their careers as chefs and were workaholics who ended up helping each other, even as they were competing on their TV show. It was fun watching them fall back in love, if they ever really fell out of love, seeing how they had matured since their time together in college. I love second chance romances that show the hero and heroine at a good place in their lives, or even at a crossroads, where they have a chance to turn something negative from their past into something to savor and cultivate. And that’s just what Camden and Mia did. They had the life experience to know what they wanted and to be able to communicate as adults now. And the couple they became just wowed me. I think they’re probably my favorite couple of the series.

  Uber romantic and absolutely charming, Savor You definitely lived up to its name. This is the type of love story that I think fans will want to read more than once so they can enjoy every lovely moment over and over again.

  Book Info:
  Publication: Published April 24th 2018 | William Morrow Paperbacks | Fusion #5

  In the next sizzling romance in Kristen Proby’s New York Times bestselling Fusion series, two celebrity chefs compete in a culinary competition, but resisting each other will prove to be the greater challenge.

  Cooking isn’t what Mia Palazzo does, it’s who she is. Food is her passion . . . her pride . . . her true love. She’s built a stellar menu full of delicious and sexy meals for her restaurant, Seduction. Now, after being open for only a few short years, Mia’s restaurant is being featured on Best Bites TV. To say Seduction is a wild success is an understatement. All the blood, sweat, tears, and endless hours of work Mia has put into the restaurant has finally paid off.

  Then Camden Sawyer, the biggest mistake of her life, walks into her kitchen . . .

  Camden’s celebrity chef status is world-renowned. He’s the best there is, and the kitchen is where he’s most at home. He can’t resist the invitation to Portland for a showdown against Mia for a new television show. Mia was in his life years ago, and just like before, he’s met his match in the beautiful Italian spitfire. The way she commands the kitchen is mesmerizing, and her recipes are clever and delicious. He’s never had qualms about competition, and this is no different. He can’t wait to go head to head with Mia. But can he convince her the chemistry they share in the kitchen would be just as great in the bedroom as well?

  As Mia and Camden face off, neither realizes how high the stakes are as their reputations are put on the line and their hearts are put to the ultimate test.

• Escapist Book blog
  http://www.escapistbookblog.com/?p=33116
  Word count: 588

  Review: Blush For Me (Fusion, #3) by Kristen Proby
  April 25, 2018 AJ

  Buy: Kindle Ebook | Paperback
  Review
  3.5 sweet and sexy stars

  This is the third book in the Fusion series and though it’s been a while since I read the last book in this series, I was swept right back to life at sensual restaurant, Seduction, and the five best friends who run it, this time getting story of ball-busting bar manager, Katrina.

  Kat is flying to a wine-tasting event in Napa Valley when she meets Mac. It’s her first time on a plane and she’s absolutely terrified, but her gorgeous seatmate is there for her, literally holding her hand and keeping her calm through her ordeal. She’s thrilled to finally get to her destination, and even more thrilled when she realises that Mac is there for the same event. And with their attraction sizzling, she proposes that they enjoy a string-free “sexcation”. Mac is feeling the chemistry just as much as Kat is. He is intrigued by the feisty beauty and not looking for a relationship, so he agrees to her proposition and the two of them proceed to rock each other’s worlds for their time away.

  The man can fuck like nobody’s business, bless him.

  When Kat returns home, she is back into her normal routine when none other than Mac walks in to her bar. Figuring that they had a good thing going, they jump back into their arrangement, unable to keep their hands off each other. With neither of them looking for, or wanting, a relationship, they are surprised by how in tune they are with each other, and neither of them expected to begin developing true feelings for each other. But there’s no game playing or stupid behaviour, they just go with it, taking things as they come, and we get to see every moment of their fall into something so much more than either of them ever realised that they wanted.

  “Just because you’re breathing doesn’t mean you’re alive. You’ve made me feel alive.”

  Being a long-time fan of Ms Proby, I knew exactly what to expect going into this book, and I got it – sweet, easy, fun and functional romance with lots of heart and a serious amount of steam. Kat and Mac are great characters, I loved Kat’s strength and honesty, and Mac is pure romance hero perfection with just the right blend of dirty-talking alpha sex god and big hearted sweetheart. Together, they are fantastic, and I enjoyed watching everything develop between them.

  “I’m falling for you, Katrina,” I murmur against her lips. Her eyes open in surprise, and just when I expect her to say something along the lines of this is moving so fast, she does what she always does.
  She surprises me.
  “It’s about time you caught up,”

  I loved seeing all the girls together, especially with the addition of husbands to the mix. Proby writes great character dynamics, and this one had some truly gold moments. There’s a bit of drama thrown in, but it’s external to the relationship and brings a bit of intensity to the story, and I thought it worked really well.

  I really enjoyed this one, and am excited for Riley and Mia’s stories to come!

  3.5 stars.

• Smexy Books
  http://smexybooks.com/2016/04/review-listen-to-me-by-kristen-proby.html
  Word count: 914

  Review: Listen To Me by Kristen Proby
  April 15, 2016 By Tori 2 Comments

  listen to meListen To Me by Kristen Proby
  Series: Fusion, #1
  Romance Contemporary
  April 12, 2016
  William Morrow Paperbacks

  Reviewed by Tori

  Favorite Quote: “I’m a prostitute of feelings”

  Addison (Addie) Wade is the co-owner of the hottest up and coming restaurant in Portland-Seduction. Looking to further their brand, the women decide to hire live entertainment, never suspecting that they would get former rock star-Jake Keller. Gorgeous, sexy, and cocky, this is one bad boy Addie has no intentions of tangling with. She’s already been burned a few too many times. But Jake has his eye on her and soon the temptation to walk on the wild side again becomes too much for Addie to resist.

  Jake Keller (Knox) walked away from fame five years ago. Missing the music, Jake decides to go back to singing on a very low-key level and applies at a local restaurant. If this gets him closer to the bomb bombshell who manages the restaurant, then that makes it even better. But getting Addie to hire him is far easier than getting her to let him into her life and bed. As Jake woos Addie, showing her that not all bad boys are the same, she begins to let down her walls. But when Jake’s past comes back to haunt him, Addie has to decide if she’s brave enough to listen to her heart.

  Relationships that start out with a slight antagonistic angle are always fun and Proby uses this trope to give readers a humorous, sexy, sweet, lightly angst filled romance contemporary. Laugh out loud dialogue and a steady engaging pace keeps the reader entertained as Proby builds a cozy, swoon worthy romance between two people whose emotional baggage creates some obstacles on their path to love.

  Listen To Me is the first book in the new series, Fusion, by Kristen Proby. Heavily character drive, this installment is firmly built around our protagonists Addison Wade and Jake Keller (. Addison is one of five best friends who co-own and run the restaurant-Seduction. A savvy business women, this former model turned restaurateur has the best luck in business but the worst luck in men. She has just kicked out her latest mistake after she caught him with two women in her bed and vows she is officially done with men. Jake Keller is a famous rockstar who choose to drop out of the limelight when his best friend is hurt in an accident he blames himself for and now focuses solely on producing and writing songs.

  I loved meeting everyone in here. Such delightful individuals whose personalities all add to the overall dynamics of this story. Jake and Addie are fantastic-both as individuals and as a couple. Addie is smart, funny, loyal, and strong-willed. Her parent’s lack in interest in her life and her bad luck with men has left her questioning herself and her ability to be loved. Meeting Jake both exhilarates and scares her.

  Jake is a sexy playful devil with some pretty smooth moves that hides a heart of gold. Reckless, loyal, intelligent, and charming…he’s the ultimate bad boy. Having made some bad choices in life due to his rock star lifestyle, he sought redemption by cleaning up his act. Meeting Addie sets his world on fire and he drives into her world head first determined to make her his.

  Proby does a wonderful job of facilitating the romance amongst the backdrop of their personal issues. The humor flows through effortlessly; helping to keep the story on track and provide entertainment. Legitimate concerns are addressed and nothing is skimmed over or rushed to make the story more aesthetically pleasing. It’s an emotional journey for them both of them. Nothing is perfect and we aren’t sure till the very end if either will be able to grab the gift they’ve been given.

  Addie’s and Jake’s chemistry is off the charts with some deliciously playful scenes and delicious dirty talk. Both Jake and Addie have quite the naughty mouths and minds and Proby gives us all the delicious details. *fist bump* I enjoyed the fact that neither played games with one another and Jake was bluntly honest about his feelings and intentions towards Addie. A mild conflict that pushes these two out of their comfort zones and where they need to go was fairly predictable; the most drama in the entire book played out here.

  I definitely enjoyed meeting Addie’s best friends and look forward to reading their stories. They are a gregarious,happy, nosy bunch whose love for one another beams off the pages. Everyone needs friends like these. Jake’s friends are as enthusiastic and nosy as Addie’s and they use whatever means are necessary to make Jake realise he is entitled to happiness. A quick ending wraps up mostly everything up and leaves us secure in Jake and Addie’s relationship. Fans of sexy, cozy, and fun romance contemporaries are sure to love Proby’s latest offering. I am looking forward to book two-Close to You-which is set to release August 9th. Proby offers us a little preview at the end of Listen To Me and I AM READY!!

  Grade: B

• All About Romance
  https://allaboutromance.com/book-review/the-beauty-of-us-by-kristen-proby/
  Word count: 828

  QUOTE:
  The Beauty of Us certainly works as a standalone tale, as this is my first foray into the world of Seduction and was far from lost in their relationships. However, it’s clear there is a richness here that I was missing by parachuting in and I’ve added the previous books to my library hold list so that I can get more backstory before the fifth book comes out.

  The Beauty of Us
  Kristen Proby

  Buy This Book
  In The Beauty of Us, the fourth installment of Ms. Proby’s series about a dynamic group of friends running Seduction, an intentionally romantic restaurant in Portland, Oregon, a stranger comes to town. A tall, beautiful, male stranger who quickly becomes part of heroine Riley Gibson’s everyday life. Trevor Cooper is in town to shoot a documentary food show about the venture, but finds himself dreaming of forever more quickly than he ever thought possible. The conflicts in the story are largely external – a delusional ex-wife and distance being the primary ones – on their way to the happily ever after, but we get there delightfully in the end.

  Riley bursts into Seduction one afternoon, venting to her pals about her horrible dating life. She’s been meeting guys online, largely because she’s too busy to do otherwise, but when she goes out with them, they turn out to be absolute duds. There’s a dude at the end of the bar who overhears and laughs a few times at some of Riley’s jokes, and before long they’ve struck up a rapport. There are a few small hiccups when Riley realizes she’s been flirting with the producer of the show that’s come to town to film them, but Through Plot Reasons he ends up proposing that he take her on a real date, to show her how gentlemen behave.

  For this first half of the book, when the pair are falling in love, I was smitten. Completely and utterly smitten. Their chemistry is fantastic, the romance moves at a pace that feels authentic and they have conversations that are appropriate to the level of intimacy they’re at. There are minor squabbles, but no real drama, and I was convinced the two of them had what it takes to make it all work, even after Trevor leaves Portland to go back to LA.

  However, as the narrative approached that happily ever after conclusion, I looked at my husband in dismay. “It’s all where I want it to be and it’s only 66% of the way through the book.” “Oh, that is not good,” he replied.

  This juncture – Trevor’s departure – is where things went completely off the rails. Three elements conspire to create the ultimate break-up fight from which he must grovel his way back and I was annoyed by all three. One is an ex-wife who is very clearly a manipulative and hurtful cow, the second is another two-dimensional female in Trevor’s life who serves zero purpose except to cause an unnecessary roadblock, and the third is simple miscommunication blown totally out of proportion. I have limited patience for conflicts in relationships caused by ‘crazy women’, and to have two out of three in this case fall into that category set my teeth on edge. I was more than thrilled to emerge from that contrived wilderness to the conclusion, where Trevor and Riley begin to fully build their lives together and we are assured of their commitment from that moment forward.

  I’m itching to get the next installment of the series – Ms. Proby drops a SUPER juicy bit of news in the final paragraphs about the next book – but I’m desperately hoping for a different form of conflict.

  The Beauty of Us certainly works as a standalone tale, as this is my first foray into the world of Seduction and was far from lost in their relationships. However, it’s clear there is a richness here that I was missing by parachuting in and I’ve added the previous books to my library hold list so that I can get more backstory before the fifth book comes out. My final grade is entirely based on the frustrations I have outlined above, and not because of writing (the characters are rich and the dialogue sparkles). If you’re not so bothered by the contrived conflicts as I was, then you just may love this one.

  Buy it at Amazon/iBooks/Barnes and Noble/Kobo
  Buy The Beauty of Us by Kristen Proby:
  Buy from Amazon.com Get it on iBooks Nook Kobo
  Book Details
  Reviewer: Kristen Donnelly
  Review Date: September 14, 2017
  Publication Date: 08/2017
  Grade: B
  Sensuality Warm
  Book Type: Americana Romance | Contemporary Romance
  Review Tags: Fusion series

• Romantic Times
  https://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-review/beauty-us
  Word count: 240

  THE BEAUTY OF US
  Image of The Beauty of Us: A Fusion Novel
  Author(s): Kristen Proby
  The latest Fusion novel will entice, enthrall and engage readers far and wide. Proby has a knack for drawing readers in with her witty storytelling and heated romances that keep readers engaged until the very end. Riley is a strong and confident character, and how can one not fall for Trevor? He’s the typical alpha male with a soft heart. Once you sink your teeth into this juicy tale, you’ll find yourself wishing that the Seduction restaurant was actually in your city!

  Executive producer Trevor Cooper heads to Portland in hopes of convincing Riley Gibson, co-owner of the chic restaurant Seduction, to feature her eatery on the Best Bites TV network. But to his surprise, the business meeting turns into love at first sight. Riley is excited to have her eatery on television, but her best friend and head chef Mia isn’t entirely thrilled to have cameras following them around 24/7. She is also worried when she sees how googly-eyed Trevor is around Riley. As a business owner, Riley is overly cautious, and she questions Trevor’s motives — is he really falling for her, or is he putting on a good act to get the contract signed and elevate his TV career? (WILLIAM MORROW, Aug., 304 pp., $15.99)

  Reviewed by:
  Jaime A. Geraldi

• Harlequin Junkie
  http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-the-beauty-of-us-by-kristen-proby/
  Word count: 1128

  REVIEW: The Beauty of Us by Kristen Proby
  Posted September 1st, 2017 by Sara @HarlequinJunkie in Blog, Contemporary Romance, Foodie Romance, HJ Recommends, Review / 8 comments

  HJ_Recommends

  In The Beauty of Us (Fusion #4) by Kristen Proby, It’s taken some persuading on her part, but Riley Gibson, the marketing guru of Portland based Seduction restaurant, has talked her four co-owners (and BFFs) into letting a crew film their daily operations for a t.v. special. Being on Best Bites TV Network could push their already successful restaurant into the stratosphere. And while Riley can’t wait to see what the publicity does for them, she finds herself equally interested in the executive producer, Trevor Cooper. If she had to describe the perfect guy, he’d be it. Charming and smart, he totally rocks a pair of black framed glasses and is incredibly kind. Their attraction catches them both by surprise, but given Riley’s bad luck with men, she hopes Trevor will prove to be the one guy who doesn’t let her down.

  ‘I can’t help but wonder if this is too good to be true… I mean, maybe he’s been to jail. Or there’s a warrant out for his arrest. Or he likes green beans.
  I need to stop being so cynical and believe that there really are nice men out there, and I finally found one.’

  Trevor is completely taken by Riley from the moment he meets her at the bar in her kickass restaurant. And he has to admit that as he gets to know her and her crazy-cool friends better, he’s never had more fun on a project. To his surprise, Trevor’s feelings for Riley grow intense quickly, to the point that he’s dreading having to finish filming and go back to California. He definitely wasn’t looking for a relationship and has no idea how a long distance romance could work out. Although he’s not willing to let her go quite yet. But distance proves to be difficult for Trevor and Riley, their hectic schedules not giving them a chance to connect like they need to. He’s determined to make it work, though, and figure out a way to have the woman he can’t imagine being without back in his life on a permanent basis.

  I drag my fingertips down her cheek. “You still don’t get it do you? I’m so crazy about you I can’t see straight. When you’re with me, no one else exists.”

  So. Much. Fun. Boy did Kristen Proby hit the nail on the head by creating this perfectly lovely couple. Riley and Trevor were amazing together right from their meet-cute beginning to their emotional HEA and everything in between.

  “So, you think I’m sexy?”
  She giggles. “I didn’t say that. I said the glasses are sexy.”
  “I think *you’re* sexy,” I reply honestly. “And I’m not quite sure what to do about that.”

  I just adore the five ladies of Seduction restaurant and of course their sexy male counterparts we’ve met along the way with this series. They’re all so different personality-wise but they are all intelligent, talented, and are loyal to each other first and foremost. Riley was every bit as comical and sassy as I figured she’d be. But I was pleasantly surprised to see she also had a bit of a shy, vulnerable side that was very endearing. She tended to overthink things–sometimes to the point of being too extreme with it–but Riley had been hurt by several people before. So I thought it felt right that she was cautious and was waiting for the other shoe to drop with Trevor. I also got a huge chuckle out of Riley’s Nana, the conversations they had and how cool she was. Seriously, I want to be just like her when I’m that age! (lol)

  Trevor was such an awesome hero. He was smart, caring, just geeky enough to be charming, and ended up being a bit of an alpha guy in the bedroom. *swoon* Okay, so he did have a few boneheaded moments toward the end of the book where I wanted to (lovingly) smack the back of his head, but Trevor was the ideal man for Riley. I loved that he was smitten with everything about her and he made sure she was told over and over how beautiful, smart and wonderful she was. Talk about an ego boost! They had some comical bantering between them that had me laughing quite a few times. Especially about Star Wars vs. Star Trek and Riley’s penchant for confusing the two. Priceless.

  There was one thread of the story in regard to Angie, someone on the outskirts of Trevor’s life, that for me didn’t really seem finished and kind of bugged me afterward. So it did bring the rating down a tad from 4.5 to 4 stars, but overall this was still a great read.

  Coworkers with delicious chemistry. Long distance relationship woes. A romance written in the stars. The Beauty of Us was an uplifting, upbeat, steamy romance that will be sure to bring a smile to your face.

  Book Info:
  Publication: Published August 22nd 2017 | William Morrow Paperbacks | Fusion #4

  New York Times bestselling author Kristen Proby delivers another sizzling novel in her delectable and sexy Fusion series.

  Riley Gibson is over the moon at the prospect of having her restaurant, Seduction, on the Best Bites TV network. This could be the big break she’s been waiting for. But the idea of having an in-house show on a regular basis is a whole other matter. Their lives would be turned upside down, and convincing Mia, her best friend and head chef of Seduction, that having cameras in her kitchen every day is a good idea is daunting. Still, Riley knows it’s an opportunity she can’t afford to pass on. And when she meets Trevor Cooper, the show’s executive producer, she’s stunned by their intense chemistry.

  Trevor’s sole intention is to persuade Riley to allow Best Bites TV to do a show on her restaurant. But when he walks into Riley’s office, he stops dead in his tracks. The professional, aloof woman on the phone is incredibly beautiful and funny. But can he convince her that he’s interested in Riley for himself? Or is he using the undeniable pull between them to persuade her to agree to his offer?

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  Word count: 1123

  QUOTE:
  I think there is definitely an audience for this type of romance, even if it’s not going on my own personal favorites list. The story is predictable from start to finish with a few twists but nothing you don’t see coming. Close to You is a sweet friends-to-lovers story that will please readers looking for an easy, low-on-angst afternoon read.

  Close to You
  Kristen Proby

  Buy This Book
  Close to You is the second story in Kristen Proby’s Fusion series which focuses on five female friends who’ve started a restaurant together. While I haven’t read the first book in the series, this one is a friends-to-lovers/best friend’s sibling trope which I always enjoy, and it’s an easy, light read with a predictable plot. However it is a little too light on substance and doesn’t have enough conflict for me to say that it will linger long in my memory.

  Cami is the bookkeeper and accountant for Seduction, the successful restaurant that she runs with four of her close friends. As a teenager, she had a crush on her friend Mia’s older brother Landon. But Landon joined the Navy after high school and was gone for the next twelve years, only coming home for brief family visits. A piloting accident and the resulting injury has left him unable to fly, so he’s been discharged from the Navy and has returned home. He’s taken over the family construction business and is instrumental in an overhaul being done at the restaurant. As such, he and Cami are working closely together. But while Landon is aware of the crush Cami had on him when she was younger, she doesn’t know that it was returned equally. He’s finally got the chance to show Cami how he feels and he hopes she feels the same. But while turning a teenage crush into an adult relationship might be easy to do, will Cami believe that Landon is really home to stay?

  I have three main issues with this novel. The first is the group of young women who run the restaurant. While I like the friendship between them and the fact that they obviously care about each other, they don’t seem to have the maturity level needed to run a successful business. They act like they are just over twenty, instead of the closer to thirty that they are supposed to be. It’s just little things, like conversations about sexual positions, dick size, and their periods (often around Landon, who to his credit, takes it all in his stride) that give the impression that they don’t take things very seriously. They also drink excessively on several occasions, which makes me wonder how they are keeping their business running.

  The second is well, a strange quirk that Cami has that I just couldn’t wrap my head around. She doesn’t wear panties. Like, at all. She obviously wears a bra because there are sex scenes with her and Landon where he removes it, but she doesn’t like panty lines and she doesn’t like wearing a thong, so she goes commando. Now, I’ve heard of men doing the same thing (and truthfully this strikes me as equally uncomfortable) and of course there are often scenes in romance novels where the women conveniently leave off their underwear for seduction purposes, but all the time? Really? That just seems unhygienic and strange to me. Maybe there are legions of women who go around without panties all the time. But I’m obviously in the minority having never heard of it being a thing before.

  Finally, there just isn’t enough conflict in the story to keep me wondering how things are going to end. Cami and Landon had their teenage crushes, now they’re dating and by mid story they are obviously committed to each other. Some of the scenes are a bit repetitious (Landon has a habit of tucking Cami’s hair behind her ear) and their internal monologues again tend to be on the less mature side. Even the idea that Landon might move away for another job is dealt with swiftly and without any angst. While there are a few emotional scenes between them, they come very late in the story, by which point it’s clear that nothing is going to keep them apart.

  On the plus side, Landon and Cami are quite likable characters. Landon is understandably upset that he’s no longer going to be able to fly planes in the Navy. While taking over his father’s construction company is something he’s capable of, having worked for his dad as a teenager, it’s not a career goal. In fact, that’s part of his problem – he doesn’t know quite what he’s going to do with his life now. He only knows that whatever happens, he wants Cami to be part of it. He makes a concerted effort to show her that he is in it for the long haul, and I appreciate that he doesn’t try to get her into bed right from the start but wants to take things slowly. For her part, Cami is a really friendly and nice woman. She’s loyal to her best friends, is concerned about their well-being and making their business a success. She values her friends opinions (and they hers) and they know all about her crush on Landon, so have plenty of advice for her. Landon and Cami definitely have some good chemistry going on between them and their love scenes are sweet and sexy. Cami also has a pet, a stray cat who finds his way into her apartment and becomes a new fixture in her life. He becomes Cami’s confidant when she is tired of her friends’ well-meaning but sometimes intrusive advice.

  I think there is definitely an audience for this type of romance, even if it’s not going on my own personal favorites list. The story is predictable from start to finish with a few twists but nothing you don’t see coming. Close to You is a sweet friends-to-lovers story that will please readers looking for an easy, low-on-angst afternoon read.

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  Book Details
  Reviewer: Maria Rose
  Review Date: August 12, 2016
  Publication Date: 08/2016
  Grade: C
  Sensuality Warm
  Book Type: Contemporary Romance
  Review Tags: friends to lovers | Fusion series

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  Word count: 1190

  Review: Close to You by Kristen Proby
  August 15, 2016 By Tori Leave a Comment

  close to youClose to You by Kristen Proby
  Series: Fusion, #2
  Romance Contemporary
  August 9, 2016
  William Morris

  Reviewed by Tori

  Camilla LaRue (Cami) has had a crush on Landon Palazzo since she was 5 years old. As the years went by, her crush deepens to love but Landon never treated her like more than his sister’s best friend. When he leaves for the Navy immediately after graduation, Cami is heartbroken. Though they stayed in contact, Landon never came home and Cami had no choice but to move on. Now a successful co-owner of the restaurant Seduction, Cami has reached a level of contentment.

  Landon Palazzo is finally home after a 12 year career in the Navy. Ready to take over his father’s construction company, he is pleasantly surprised to see Cami LaRue is all grown up. While he also crushed on Cami when they were younger, he knew because of their age difference that he needed to let her be until she was older before pursuing anything romantic with her. But now they are both adults and Landon is ready to stake his claim.

  Cami has finally come to accept that she and Landon are not meant to be but when he begins to pour on the charm, she discovers that sometimes the best things in life are worth waiting for.

  I have enjoyed Proby’s writings overall and this series in particular. This romance contemporary series follows five best friends on their journey through the pitfalls of life and love with a fair amount of laughter, love, and comradery. The friendship between the women is really where the strength of this series lies. I adore each and every scene that features these women together whether they’re at work or just having their weekly brunches where they spill about everything.

  Close to You is the second installment in Kristen Proby’s Fusion series. A very lightweight and cozy friends to lovers romance contemporary that reunites a couple who have been attracted to one another for years but various circumstances kept them apart. Humor and engaging narrative helps to push this story along though to be honest the lack of drama, angst, and conflict left me feeling rather ambivalent about the story.

  Cami and Landon are nice characters whose interactions are comfortable and almost entirely conflict free. They are extremely similar in their character makeup. Intelligent, loyal, and witty with a lack of the usual deep seated emotional baggage that often sparks the tension, drama, and requisite misunderstandings of this particular trope. Hard working; their well-balanced personalities and off the cuff humor (mainly Cami’s) flows throughout the story. I liked that they both older and established. It was nice to read about a couple who aren’t in need of any saving.

  On the whole, I found this story very bland. Proby sets up Cami’s story in book one, giving us hints to how strongly she feels for Landon. In here Proby expands on those feelings and letting us know the crush was mutual and the romance follows a very predictable path. Perhaps if we could have seen them fall in love I would have become more invested. Proby gives us the basics of their childhood and teen years but skips forward to the present so we never see that ‘moment’ that tips their crushes to love. I never felt this was Cami and Landon’s love story. We could have been reading about anyone. There are no real arguments or setbacks. The sexual scenes are abundant and hot but again predictable. There is no anticipation. No emotional expectations. No passion. I had a hard time accepting the ease in which they slipped into the role of a committed couple.

  The main conflict is Cami’s insecurity, which all revolves around Landon leaving her again. This bothered me because he didn’t leave HER per say. He joined the Navy and left so they could both experience life and grow. She left him too-marrying another man-and that stopped communication between them for a while. There was a sense of desperation and fear surrounding her that seemed better suited to a couple who loved and loss in a traumatic way and now they have been given a second chance to get it right. It is such a contrast to the strong, independent business woman persona she presents. With Landon, she completely folds.

  Landon is the perfect beta hero. He’s sweet, compassionate, empathetic, and focused. Once you’re in his heart, there is nothing he won’t do for you. He knows what Cami wants before she even knows it. He’s too perfect. He’s every heroic attribute rolled up in one man. He lets us know he’s always loved Cami and wanted to be with her but managed to hide his need far better than her. So…why did he wait to pursue her? Why did it take him being grounded before he acknowledges that she was always the one for him. There were times I felt, like Cami, that he only decided to be with her because his life’s dream had come to an end and she’s there where he left her. I really wish he and Cami had sat down and discussed everything. Anything. Instead, they touch upon all the elephants in the room and then move on. Every issue is internalized. Even the defining moment of their lives is not so much defining as a tragic situation that resolves in an instant and finally convinces Cami that Landon does love her and is finally ready to settle down.

  What kept this from being a total loss for me are the subplots and secondary characters. Cami’s interactions with the cat who adopted her and her ex-husband are hilarious. Her nephew offers us insight into her family life, showing us how being a late in life baby affected her relationships with her parents and her much much older siblings. Cami’s best friends are a force unto themselves and I love their cheerleader mentality as they give her the courage to accept her happiness. Mia, Landon’s sister, is insane and has some sobering advice for him. She lets him know that she will not tolerate his usual MO when it comes to Cami. Again, it’s something we never saw so we can’t agree or disagree with her on this matter.

  Fans of Proby and low-key romance contemporaries with no muss or fuss will enjoy this one. If you’re like me and enjoy more spice and seeing a couple have to work for their HEA, you will be disappointed. While this was not a favorite in the series, I won’t be giving up on it just yet. Next up is Kat’s story, Blush for Me, set to release March 2017.

  Grade: C-

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  QUOTE:
  Proby absolutely swept me away with the sincere emotions and unbreakable bond Landon and Cami shared. If you’re a fan of uber romantic stories powered by great friendships, I think you’ll thoroughly enjoy Close to You.

  REVIEW: Close to You by Kristen Proby
  Posted August 17th, 2016 by Sara @HarlequinJunkie in Blog, Contemporary Romance, HJ Recommends, Review / 4 comments

  HJ_Recommends

  Close-to-YouIn Close to You (Fusion #2) by Kristen Proby, Cami LaRue should have plenty to keep her occupied these days, as co-owner of Seduction restaurant and as a busy accountant, but all she can focus on is the return of her childhood crush, Navy fighter pilot Landon Palazzo. They were best friends for years until he left for the Navy. But the last decade hasn’t diminished her feelings for him in the least. When Landon begins to pay attention to Cami and makes his true feelings known, she thinks her dreams have finally come true. But when their lives are thrown a curve ball, will they have what it takes to stay the course and make a future together?

  ‘…I look down at him to find him grinning wickedly.
  I love it when he looks at me like that. Very good things happen when he’s in this mood.
  Wicked things.
  Naughty things.
  I can’t wait.’

  Landon is at a crossroad in his career, unable to pilot for the Navy yet not wanting to work in the family construction business for the rest of his life. But coming home has given him the chance he’s been waiting for to pursue gorgeous Cami. He knows that her friendship with his little sister Mia might make things a little awkward at first, but Landon can’t deny he’s always had strong feelings for Cami. And just like he had hoped, they still have an intense attraction that lights up his world and won’t let go. Landon intends to prove that they are meant to be together and that he’s ready to settle down in his hometown the woman of his dreams.

  “I get lost in you,” I whisper, wishing I could see her face, but not wanting to move her.
  “Mm,” she says. “But it’s the kind of lost that’s like being found.”
  I blink, processing her words, and know, in this moment, that there will never be anyone else for me.

  Friends-to-lovers romance doesn’t get much sweeter than this. Close to You was a quick read by super talented author Kristen Proby that had tons of laughs, some seriously sexy dirty talk, strong friendships, and just a touch of drama.

  “I’ve always been in love with you, Landon.”
  …He brushes his lips gently over my forehead and pulls me into his arms, hugging me softly. “Same here, sweetheart.”

  Landon and Cami were one of those couples that you just know are meant to be together. They were both genuine, caring individuals who started off with a terrific friendship that turned into a crush along the way and then grew into even more as they became adults. I loved how Proby brought Cami and Landon back together as friends first, with some realistic awkwardness thrown in. They had spent a little over a decade apart and a lot had changed in their lives. The one thing that never changed, though, was that soul-deep connection between them that made me sigh oh so happily.

  I really liked the way the drama and plot twists were handled in this book. There wasn’t an overabundance of angst and what issues did creep up were handled relatively quickly. That’s not to say that it was light on emotional depth or even true character growth, because it wasn’t. It just seemed like there was so much for Landon and Cami, and their friends and family, to celebrate and enjoy. The lighthearted touches that Proby added, like Cami’s hilarious conversations with her friends and the arrival of Scoot the cat who adopted her as his human, were perfect and added much warmth to the story–as well as make me giggle.

  What took me most by surprise was how romantic Landon turned out to be. He was still all alpha and a sexy Navy fighter pilot of course, but he was so tender and thoughtful with Cami that it made me want to swoon. From the lovely dates he set up for them to the way he handled Cami’s emotions, Landon was a passionate, caring guy who was certainly raised right by his mama! I really did love Cami, too. Watching her grow as an individual through everything she encountered and to see how loyal she remained to her family and loved ones was wonderful. She deserved someone like Landon to dote on her and treat her like a princess after how hard she worked to take care of everyone else for so long. *happy sigh*

  Kristen Proby absolutely swept me away with the sincere emotions and unbreakable bond Landon and Cami shared. If you’re a fan of uber romantic stories powered by great friendships, I think you’ll thoroughly enjoy Close to You.

  Book Info:
  4SPublished August 9th 2016 | by William Morrow Paperbacks | Fusion #2

  From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kristen Proby comes the second novel in her sizzling Fusion series.

  Camilla, “Cami,” LaRue was five-years-old when she first fell in love with Landon Palazzo. Everyone told her the puppy love would fade—they clearly never met Landon. When he left after graduation without a backward glance, she was heartbroken. But Cami grew up, moved on, and became part-owner of wildly popular restaurant Seduction. She has everything she could want…or so she thinks.

  After spending the last twelve years as a Navy fighter pilot, Landon returns to Portland to take over the family construction business. When he catches a glimpse of little Cami LaRue, he realizes she’s not so little any more. He always had a soft spot for his little sister’s best friend, but nothing is soft now when he’s around the gorgeous restaurateur.

  Landon isn’t going to pass up the chance to make the girl-next-door his. She’s never been one for romance, but he’s just the one to change her mind. Will seduction be just the name of her restaurant or will Cami let him get close enough to fulfill all her fantasies?

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  QUOTE:
  fast ride on the journey to happily ever after.

  Web Exclusive – January 27, 2015

  FALLING FOR JILLIAN
  A return home to love
  BookPage review by Susan Andersen

  New York Times best-selling author Kristen Proby returns to the vast, rugged majesty of Montana with her third book in the Love Under the Big Sky series, Falling for Jillian. Jillian Sullivan spent the majority of her adulthood in Los Angeles, but she’s back in Whitetail Mountain, Montana, to rebuild her life and lick a few wounds in the wake of her imploded marriage. She’s there for the comfort she’ll get from her brother and her best friend, Cara, but what she’s not looking forward to is running into Zach King. She shared the hottest one-night-stand of her life with him—and the worst morning after in the history of hookups. She knows too well that Zach will be impossible to avoid, however, since Cara is married to his twin and her own brother is his friend.

  Zach is thrilled that Jillian is back in town. He has long regretted the way he handled the aftermath of his one night with her, and when Cara sends him out on a cold winter’s night to check the wonky furnace in the house Jillian is renting, he grabs the opportunity to reconnect.

  The physical urgency they experienced during their previous encounter is even stronger than before, and they quickly give in to their need for each other. Zach finds himself falling hard and sees no reason to dodge his emotions. Jillian is a tougher sell, yet there’s just something about the way she fits so seamlessly into Zach’s life on his ranch that she can’t ignore. She certainly is unable to deny not only her feelings for Zach, but for his sweet son Seth as well. But Jillian and Zach could stock an airport with their baggage, and she simply cannot visualize how this thing between them could possibly work in the long run. She can’t help but hope, however, that it somehow will.

  Falling for Jillian is a sizzling, contemporary story full of scorching sex, family dynamics and fabulous friends. Although many of the characters’ family lives are less than functional, these friends have built a tight tribe with the people who matter most to them: each other. Hang onto your hats, because it’s a fast ride on the journey to happily ever after.

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  REVIEW: Falling for Jillian by Kristen Proby
  Posted January 29th, 2015 by Sara @HarlequinJunkie in Blog, Contemporary Romance, HJ Recommends, Review / 10 comments

  HJ_Recommends
  In Falling for Jillian (Love Under the Big Sky #3) by Kristen Proby, Zach King just flat out can’t keep his mind off Falling For JillianJillian Sullivan. He’s back from the military, taking care of his son Seth since his ex-wife took off, and is helping to run his family’s ranch in Montana. Life should be great. And it would be, if he could get Jillian to give him the time of day. So when the opportunity comes up for Zach to make his move, he takes the chance and finds out his attraction might not be so one-sided after all. But with all of his family and personal issues along with Jillian’s harrowing past, can he be the man she needs him to be?

  “I want the parts of you that you refuse to give anyone else, Jill. I can’t imagine anything better in this life than sharing it with you. Choosing you, every day.”

  Being back home near her good friends has been the respite Jillian needed after her failed marriage back in L.A.. She’s not really looking for a relationship. Instead she wants to grow her real estate business. But Zach King is temptation on a stick. He has to be the sexiest guy she’s ever met. And Jillian finds out all too soon that he has his sights set on her. Once they start opening up to each other and she learns of the horrors he’s been through overseas, she feels a bond begin to form with him. But as she grows more and more attached to Zach and Seth, Jillian fears she’ll be the one to get hurt if things don’t work out.

  “I’m home, and I’m safe, and that’s all that matters.”
  “Thank God you’re safe. Oh my God, Zack. I could have lost you before I ever really found you.”

  Kristen Proby once again delivers an insanely sexy and emotionally charged novel in the Love Under the Big Sky series. Zach and Jillian’s romance was simply wonderful to behold and had me crying and laughing in equal parts.

  “You are never going to forget all of the things I’m going to do to you tonight. Every inch of your amazing little body is going to feel me.” My breath hitches at his words.

  Just when I thought the alpha males couldn’t get any hotter in this series, Zach King comes along and knocks it out of the park. I mean…he was an ex-military hero, a devoted father to his tween son Seth since arriving stateside, he runs the family ranch with his brother, and he had the most fabulous dirty mouth. *dreamy sigh* And although I really love the heroines Ms. Proby has given us so far, I think Jillian is my favorite. She was such a strong, loving, sassy woman who knew her own mind and wasn’t about to take any crap from Zach. She’d been through far too much in her life already and was looking for someone who would treasure and protect her. I thought that was a very realistic dream and one that Zach, eventually, fulfilled perfectly.

  As with the other books in this series, there were some hiccups along the way for Jillian and Zach. Obviously mistakes were made and theirs was a bit of a doozy. But the bond that grew between them, and especially the bond between Jillian and Seth, was remarkable to witness. I think caring so much for Seth was actually my favorite surprise in this story. He went through a lot with his mother, unbeknownst to Zach, but he persevered and ended up becoming a very thoughtful and caring young man. Although some of my favorite scenes were when Seth was just being a boy, like starting snowball fights with his dad and Jillian or playing video games and hanging out with his dog, his best buddy, Thor. So stinking cute!

  Feel free to read Falling for Jillian as part of the Love Under the Big Sky series or independently. Either way, I truly hope you fall in love with Zach, Jillian, and Seth just like I did.

  Book Info:
  04.5SPublication: January 27th 2015 by Pocket Books | (Love Under the Big Sky #3)

  From New York Times bestselling author Kristen Proby comes the third romance in the Love Under the Big Sky series, featuring a veteran struggling with PTSD and the one woman who can help him recover—and learn to love again.

  Jillian thought she was a city girl through and through; the fast cars, high fashion, and glamour—she loves it all. But when her ex tells her he’s having a baby with his new wife (after Jillian struggled for years to get pregnant), she hightails it back to Montana to cry on the shoulder of her best friend, Cara.

  But in truth, Jillian would rather be comforted by someone else…specifically Zach, Cara’s brother-in-law. Zach is a veteran of the Iraq War who came back to the family ranch to raise his preteen son after the boy’s mother took off. He’s struggling to re-establish a relationship with his son, and warding off the demons of PTSD, which still haunt him. The last thing he needs is bold, brassy Jillian…but why can’t he keep his hands off her?

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  QUOTE:
  If you have a thing for attentive alpha males with a heart of gold, and capable heroines who love fiercely and can hold their own, definitely give Seducing Lauren a try.

  REVIEW: Seducing Lauren by Kristen Proby
  Posted August 26th, 2014 by Sara @HarlequinJunkie in Blog, Contemporary Romance, HJ Recommends, Review / 4 comments

  In Seducing Lauren (Love Under the Big Sky #2) by Kristen Proby, Lauren Cunningham turns to the only person she knows can help her with her ex-husband’s legal threat, local lawyer Tyler Sullivan. A man whom she has known all her life and, to be honest, has always been attracted to. Ty turns Lauren’s case down, not because he doesn’t want to SLauhelp her, but he tells her because it would be a conflict of interest as he wishes to date her. Soon the two of them become inseparable as their chemistry turns their friendship into something more.

  ‘His arms tighten around me, pulling me into the safety of his embrace, and I know that no matter what kind of shit Jack throws my way, I can stand up to him. Ty will be right there by my side. And for the first time since my parents died, I feel…safe.’

  But Lauren’s ex won’t stay out of the picture, continuing with the threats, both legal and otherwise. Ty will do anything he can to protect her as he realizes just how deep his feelings are for this amazing woman. It’s not just a physical need. They are both becoming a part of each other’s every day lives. With trouble still lurking around the corner, should they rush headlong into a full-fledged romance? Or will they be able to take their time and see what happens as they go?

  “I’m going to slowly worship every inch of this amazing body, Lauren. Do you have any issues with that?”
  I shake my head no, entranced in the heat in his eyes.

  With a name like Seducing Lauren, I should have guessed that this was going to be a seriously–and I do mean seriously–HOT romance, bordering on erotic. I have a feeling that the hero, super sexy and complete sweetie Tyler Sullivan, will soon become a lot of ladies newest book boyfriend. *fans face*

  Book two in the Love Under the Big Sky series pleasantly surprised me. I wasn’t expecting a romance that would keep me engrossed, start to finish, with a plot that kept building or with such well developed characters who each added something important to the story. Plus we got a strong & sassy, independent heroine who was learning how capable she truly was on her own and that love didn’t have to come at a price. Whether it be a monetary or an emotional sacrifice.

  I liked that even though at first Lauren was afraid to enter into a relationship again, she was willing to start a friendship with Tyler and see where it went from there. Of course, it didn’t hurt that he was such a caring, understanding guy. Who also happened to be a total badass whenever needed. Their love scenes turned out to be some of the most fun, dirty, and yet caring scenes I’ve read for a while. Did I mention this story is really hot? 😉 But honestly, I thought the level of trust Lauren and Tyler formed, as well as the way they protected each other was really what stood out about their relationship.

  If you have a thing for attentive alpha males with a heart of gold, and capable heroines who love fiercely and can hold their own, definitely give Seducing Lauren a try.

  Book Info:
  04.5SPublished August 19th 2014 by Pocket Books | (Love Under the Big Sky #2)

  In the second book in the Love Under the Big Sky series from this USA Today bestselling author of the With Me in Seattle series, life in Montana gets spicy when a woman and her divorce lawyer sign off the papers—and sign on to love.

  Now that his best friend, Josh, has happily settled down with his true love on a Montana ranch, small-town lawyer Ty Sullivan starts thinking that maybe single life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. And when Lauren Cunningham’s no-good ex-husband comes after her for an unexpected trust fund, Ty steps in to protect her. But soon he can’t help but think of her as more than a client. Lauren’s in no mood to jump into another relationship, so how can Ty convince her that her mistake wasn’t getting married, but marrying the wrong guy?

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  Review: Seducing Lauren by Kristen Proby
  Contemporary RomanceContemporary Romance, Contemporary Romance Reading Challenge 2015, Love Under the Big Sky, Seducing LaurenMarcy
  Seducing Lauren KPA sexy, contemporary love story

  Title: Seducing Lauren
  Series: Love Under The Big Sky (book 2)
  Author: Kristen Proby
  Genre: Contemporary Romance
  Published: August 19, 2014
  Source: owned paperback

  Book Blurb:

  Now that his best friend, Josh, has happily settled down with his true love on a Montana ranch, small-town lawyer Ty Sullivan starts thinking that maybe single life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. And when Lauren Cunningham’s no-good ex-husband comes after her for an unexpected trust fund, Ty steps in to protect her. But soon he can’t help but think of her as more than a client. Lauren’s in no mood to jump into another relationship, so how can Ty convince her that her mistake wasn’t getting married, but marrying the wrong guy?

  How can you not just fall in love with a hot, sexy man who will always protect the women in his life – no matter what they face? I certainly cannot.

  Read on to see my thoughts on Tyler and Lauren story. No true spoilers, promise.

  How do I say this without being totally corny? Yummmmm.

  Seducing Lauren was a treat from the opening pages. I happened to read the second book in this series first – thanks to a friend who passes her reads along to me. Thank you, Deb. 🙂 (after closing the last page of the book I immediately went to Amazon and downloaded the first and the third – it was that good)

  Lauren’s ex-husband wants half of her family inheritance – even though she knew nothing about the trust fund. And that dirty, rotten, scumbag piece of crap will harass her, threaten her and take her to court until he gets what he deems as his. Lo (Lauren’s nickname) storms into her attorney’s office intent on stopping Jack (the scum ex) from touching the money her parents meant for her alone.

  Tyler watches her entrance into the offices. Although he is not her attorney, he brings her into his office to calm her down. Ty leaves her baffled and angry that he won’t take on her case, insisting that it stay with her usual lawyer in the firm – because he has a conflict of interest… her. His very non-professional interest in her.

  This is the beginning of Ty and Lo’s hot, steamy, totally loving relationship that will go through so much before they see their happily ever after.

  Seducing Lauren has to be experienced to understand it’s underlying story. So I’m only going to tease about the story, and leave you hanging right here.

  Lo has secrets that (at first) she’s not telling anyone about. Especially not her piece of crap ex nor her hot loving new man. Eventually Ty will learn every secret she has. But this story is not all about the hot, steamy, “they did what!” sex (although there is plenty of raise your pulse sex in this novel) – their story is also about trust. Giving it, accepting it and learning how to trust so completely that not one single secret can remain between two people who desperately, deeply love each other. But that trust (on both sides) builds through the novel to it’s heartbreaking, stunning conclusion.

  We also get to revisit with Ty’s good friends Josh and Cara, his sister Jillian and Josh’s twin brother Zach – and Seth makes an appearance too. 🙂 Their inclusion in the story made it better by letting the reader know that this is a tight knit group of friends, family and lovers who will face anything that life tosses their way with a united front, together.

  If you love hot alpha men, beautiful (inside and out) strong ladies who love with all their heart – You will enjoy the “Love Under the Big Sky” series. Oh, and the sex scenes will burn your fingers on the pages. *wink*

  Seducing Lauren is available at Amazon in paperback, audiobook and at the Kindle store.

• Romantic Times
  https://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-review/loving-cara
  Word count: 249

  QUOTE:
  searing, multilayered and utterly charming novel that is sure to win a number of new fans

  LOVING CARA
  Image of Loving Cara (Love Under the Big Sky)
  Author(s): Kristen Proby
  2014 – Contemporary Love & Laughter nominee
  The debut of Proby’s Love Under the Big Sky series is a searing, multilayered and utterly charming novel that is sure to win a number of new fans for her growing legions. Though she excels at scene-stealing, ultra-romantic moments, the day-to-day details in this story are thoroughly bewitching, thanks to pitch-perfect humor, a wonderful sense of place and feisty lead characters. The blazing chemistry they share makes each scene sizzle, and their devotion to family makes for a compelling read that will have fans begging for more.

  Josh King may be a dab hand when it comes to running his family’s enormous Montana ranch, but when his 12-year-old nephew Seth is abandoned on his doorstep, Josh is at a loss on how to help him. Thankfully, he knows to call Cara Donovan, a local teacher who jumps at the chance to tutor Seth for the summer. When she arrives, Josh realizes that the shy, unremarkable girl from high school is now a smart, fiery beauty that he can’t get out of his mind. Can he convince Cara that he wants her for far longer than a summer fling? (POCKET, Jan., 352 pp., $7.99)

  Reviewed by:
  Jaime A. Geraldi

• Fresh Fiction
  http://freshfiction.com/review.php?id=43273
  Word count: 546

  QUOTE:
  I really loved the characters of Josh and Cara. They have really great chemistry and their love story is just perfect.
  I really love when an author writes a book that is a little different from their normal type of book.

  Loving Cara
  Loving Cara, February 2014
  Love Under the Big Sky #1
  by Kristen Proby

  Pocket Paraview
  Featuring: Cara Donovan; Josh King
  352 pages
  ISBN: 1476759006
  EAN: 9781476759005
  Kindle: B00DX0F2Y8
  Paperback / e-Book
  Add to Wish List

  Purchase
  Amazon

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  Powell's Books

  Books-A-Million

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  "Can the tutor be taught about love?"
  Fresh Fiction Review
  Loving Cara
  Kristen Proby
  Reviewed by Sarah Horwath
  Posted May 3, 2014

  Romance Contemporary

  In Loving Cara by Kristen Proby Cara Donovan must learn the real meaning of patience. She has gotten a summer job teacher Josh King's troubled nephew. Josh and Cara have pretty much grown up together, with Josh teasing Cara relentlessly.

  I really loved and enjoyed this book. I have read pretty much everything by Kristen Proby and love all her work and this new book is just as great. LOVING CARA is a whole new twist on her writing and she could not have done better. I really loved the characters of Josh and Cara. They have really great chemistry and their love story is just perfect. I really enjoyed seeing Josh's nephew Seth grow and basically become a great kid. I really loved Josh and Cara's relationship and how just lovable they were.

  I really love when an author writes a book that is a little different from their normal type of book. Kristen Proby has another series out that I just love but that series is a little sexier while this series is more of a sweet, light, and flirty read. I really can't wait to get my hands on the next book in this series.

  Learn more about Loving Cara
  SUMMARY
  CHEMISTRY WAS NEVER THIS SEXY IN HIGH SCHOOL.

  In her sizzling new series, USA Today bestselling author Kristen Proby sets the stage for a passionate reunion under the breathtaking Montana sky.

  Cara Donovan’s summer tutoring job is turning out to be a challenge—and not just because of her troubled twelve-year-old student. It’s his uncle Josh who’s the real problem. If problem is the word for an irresistibly cocky, muscle-bound rancher with a taste for tight Levi’s and shameless flirtation. . . .

  Cara is nothing like the wallflower Josh King remembers good-naturedly teasing in high school. This Cara is gorgeous, confident, fun. From the moment the fiery teacher steps foot on his family’s Lazy K Ranch, the stubborn playboy is determined to corral her. So what happens when his luscious lover takes over the reins?

  The first in a steamy trilogy, Kristen Proby’s enthralling novel is filled to the brim with one hardworking family’s triumphs and challenges, all the wild adventure of the modern West, and a whole lot of titillating fun.

• No BS Book Review
  http://nobsbookreviews.com/review-come-away-with-me-with-me-in-seattle-1-by-kristen-proby/
  Word count: 806

  QUOTE:
  I enjoyed that this book was very low stress, it wasn’t over the top in drama or angst.

  Review: Come Away With Me (With Me in Seattle #1) by Kristen Proby
  April 5, 2014 · Leave a Comment

  Review: Come Away With Me (With Me in Seattle #1) by Kristen ProbyCome Away With Me by Kristen Proby
  Series: With Me in Seattle #1
  Published on November 7, 2012
  Genres: Contemporary Romance, Love & Romance
  Pages: 324
  Buy on Amazon--Buy on B&N--Buy on Audible
  Add to Goodreads

  Being confronted on the beach by a sexy stranger wasn't part of Natalie Conner's plans for a peaceful morning taking photos. And why on earth would he think she's taking pictures of him, anyway? Who is he? One thing’s for sure, he’s hot, and incredibly romantic, feeding Natalie’s wounded soul.

  Luke Williams just wants the world to give him a break, so seeing yet another camera aimed at his face has him ready to pounce on the beauty behind the lens. When he finds out she has no idea who he is, he's intrigued and more than a little tempted by her. Natalie has a body made for sex, a sassy mouth and Luke can’t get enough of her, but he’s not ready to tell her who he really his.

  Natalie is a no nonsense girl who doesn’t do well with lies and secrets. What will happen to this new relationship when she discovers what Luke’s hiding?

  brenna-review_dandy.png

  Come Away With Me is such a sweet story. It’s light on angst and full of swoon worthy moments. I have to admit I was grinning through a large portion of this book!

  The beginning is cute and it had my attention right away. It all starts when photographer, Natalie is catching some early morning shots on the beach and is approached by a very angry, but very attractive man, Luke. In Natalie’s eyes she’s being mugged and Luke thinks he’s being photographed by the paparazzi. Ultimately they figure out its all a misunderstanding and they go their separate ways.

  Pretty soon Natalie and Luke’s paths cross again and they realize how much they enjoy spending time together. They have major chemistry and their relationship progresses very quickly.

  “Is there anyone else?”
  “Why is this any of your business?”
  “Because you’re the first woman I’ve brought into my home, and all I can think about is getting your beautiful body naked and fucking you senseless. I need to know if there is any competition. I don’t share, Natalie.”

  From there, they are just about inseparable and within days are almost sickly sweetly in love/lust. Luke loves to spoil Natalie and is just a tad bit bossy, in a good way. He’s so taken with her and I loved his commitment. Natalie is new to relationships but pretty open to what Luke has to offer and he makes her feel good about herself, which is a huge thing for her.

  “I’m almost afraid to touch you,” he whispers.
  “Why?”
  “I’m afraid you’re not real.”
  “I’m real, and I’m yours.”

  I enjoyed that this book was very low stress, it wasn’t over the top in drama or angst. There are disagreements and issues but nothing majorly concerning. It’s really just Natalie and Luke spending time together, getting to know each other, and having lots and lots of hot sex. Sometimes I’m in the mood for a book like this and I think I read it at just the perfect time. Of course there were little things I could have done without, at times it wasoverly sugary. Lots of “oh my” moments and repetitive inner musings about Luke’s attractiveness. I think the book could have been shorter to cut some of the that out, but overall I still enjoyed it.

  I spent about half the time reading this and the other half listening to the audio version. I think my tolerance for things might have been a little higher because I was listening to audio, but I can’t deny that this book made me happy (that’s why I’m rounding up). I felt good while reading/listening and I got lost in it. Never for a second did I consider putting it aside. I’m really looking forward to the rest of this series and getting the stories of the rest of the family! I can see myself devouring this series on audio in no time!

  3 1/2 stars.

• Smart Bitches, Trashy Books
  http://smartbitchestrashybooks.com/reviews/review-come-away-with-me-by-kristen-proby/
  Word count: 1621

  QUOTE:
  This book suffered from Special Snowflake Syndrome. What’s that? It’s when the hero falls in love with the heroine because she’s “not like other girls” but we get no specifics as to what that means.
  That doesn’t work for me. I want to read about two fully fleshed characters; I don’t just want a placeholder.
  Come Away With Me By Kristen Proby
  by Elyse · Sep 25, 2014 at 3:00 am · View all 39 comments

  DNF
  Title: Come Away With Me
  Author: Kristen Proby
  Publication Info: Kristen Proby Publishing 2012
  ISBN: B00A3XVP4E
  Genre: New Adult

  Book Come Away with Me

  I hate DNF’ing a book. My OCD tendencies mean I like to finish everything I start, even if the book is awful. So I think, for me, a DNF grade is actually the worst you can get.

  I was still riding the New Adult-normal-girl-dates-celebrity-vibe when I picked up Kristin Proby’s Come Away with Me but literally nothing about this book worked for me. I made it to the midway point, then gave up entirely.

  My chief complaints? The pacing is off, I’m still not sure what the conflict, if there is one, is, the hero is kind of a douche, and the writing just killed it for me.

  The book opens with Natalie Conner taking pictures on the beach at dawn. This guy, Luke, who happens to be caught in one of her shots, comes up to her cursing and demanding she give him her camera. Natalie thinks this guy is a nutbag and is all “WTF.” When Luke realizes Natalie wasn’t photographing him, but rather the beach, he’s duly apologetic.

  You see Luke is messy-haired, gorgeous star of a series of vampire movies that are super popular and …aw fuck, this is Robert Pattinson fan fic, isn’t it? My context clues tell me it is.

  Goddamn it, Twilight.

  Look, I wasn’t about to put the book down because the author may have been inspired by R-Patz. Good for her, but in my experience, nothing good has come from Twilight except this blog.

  Okay, so the book is told first person POV from Natalie’s point of view (in present tense I might add—another “Oh, fuck”), but I’m able to infer that Luke is surprised Natalie has no idea who he is. He sees Natalie in town later that day and takes her to lunch and spends the rest of the book relentlessly pursuing her.

  This book suffered from Special Snowflake Syndrome. What’s that? It’s when the hero falls in love with the heroine because she’s “not like other girls” but we get no specifics as to what that means. Aside from Luke being physically attracted to Natalie and him liking that she wasn’t after him for his money or fame, there’s no real explanation of why she does it for him. This type of heroine isn’t particularly well-drawn out. She’s a stand in for the reader, hence the first person POV and lack of detail. That doesn’t work for me. I want to read about two fully fleshed characters; I don’t just want a placeholder. Again, I blame Twilight.

  Also, I didn’t like Luke. Some of his actions pissed me off and some made me do the head-tilt thing my mom’s dog does when you talk baby talk at him.

  Like this line:

  “I went home, had breakfast with my roommate, then took a short nap.”

  “I would have loved to see that.” His eyes have narrowed, and I feel myself blush.

  “Love to see me have breakfast with my roommate?”

  “No, smart-ass, loved to see you nap.”

  Who wants to watch someone nap? Seriously? It’s boring as shit. Actually, you know who? Edward fucking Cullen. That’s who.

  I’m just going to throw this out there. I think if someone really, really wants to watch you sleep, you might need to be worried for your personal safety. Now, I don’t mean if your partner lies in bed next to you and reads or whatever while you’re snoozing.

  I mean if he’s like staring intently at you for the entire thirty minutes you’re out. Is he picturing you dead? Worried about apnea? Checking to see if you sleep fart for before proposing marriage?

  And in addition to being baffling, Luke is also kind of a dick. He invites Nat over for dinner and when she gets a text-message from her sometimes lover, he becomes a total asshat. Mind you, they’ve known each other for 24 hours:

  “Who’s Grant?”

  “Just a friend.” I shrug.

  He raises an eyebrow. “That wasn’t just a friendly text, Natalie. I am a man. I know the difference.”

  I cringe and look back out over the darkening water.

  “Look at me.” His voice is sharp, and I whip my eyes back to his.

  “He’s just a friend, Luke. Yes, there has been a physical relationship there in the past, but it’s been awhile.”

  “How long is awhile?”

  “Months.”

  “How many months?”

  Since Noneofyourfuckingbusiness-ovember, Luke.

  Luke and Natalie aren’t dating at this point. They’ve gone out twice. There is no expectation of a relationship. It is none of his business who is texting her and why. Getting possessive over a girl he literally just met and basically assaulted on the beach isn’t sexy. It’s not a sign of how much he loves/wants Natalie. It’s shitty, childish behavior that’s romanticized.

  Also, WTF does I am a man. I know the difference mean? Is there some magic power that comes with a Y chromosome that tells dudes what the connotations of a text message are? Is there a text-to-balls correlation that I’m missing? That’s as nonsensical as me saying, “I’m a woman, Natalie. I know that the capital of Mongolia is Ulan Bator.”

  So then Natalie and Luke keep dating and she reveals to him her backstory. She’s an orphan (take a drink) and she was raped (take another drink). Were her parents killed in some sort of crash, you ask? Plane crash! Finish your beer!

  Also Natalie’s dad was some sort of high profile lawyer, and he sued the parents of her rapist, and she has this large trust fund she never touches because REASONS.

  And Natalie never “makes love” to men, she just “fucks” them because of the rape (I guess it’s a control thing? I don’t know). Of course, she makes love to Luke though because despite being raped at a young age and despite there not actually being anything to support why this is true, Luke is different.

  I’m assuming his penis sparkles, but it’s never explicitly stated.

  About a third of the way into the book Natalie learns who Luke is and feels betrayed that he never revealed his true identity. She’s humiliated.

  Book Gorilla Crazy Glue Luke stays in character, acting like a douche bag, but passing it off as “I ACT THIS WAY BECAUSE I LOVE YOU SO MUCH.”

  “Natalie, so help me God, if you don’t open this door, I’ll break it down. Come out here and look at me.” His voice sounds ragged and close to mine. And he’s really pissed. But so am I! I don’t respond, and suddenly Luke hits the wall to the left of the door. “OPEN THE MOTHERFUCKING DOOR!”

  This behavior is quite frankly scary. It sealed my dislike of Luke with Super-glue.

  Of course Luke and Natalie make up. After that there were just a bunch of chapters where they date and have sex a lot and nothing happens. Oh, except Natalie goes to Luke’s family’s house for dinner, and his sister is shitty to her because she thinks Natalie might be a gold-digger, and Natalie puts her down and Luke’s ENTIRE FAMILY SIDES WITH THE WOMAN THEY JUST MET RATHER THAN HIS SISTER.

  It was like, “You are excused from this family, sister. We no longer love you because Luke has a stand-in-for-the-reader girlfriend and we now love her more than you. We’re going to adopt her and give her your room and buy her that pony you always wanted. Please enjoy this Greyhound Bus ticket to the new life you’ll have to start.”

  After Natalie and Luke’s blow-out regarding his sekrit identity, I couldn’t figure out what the conflict was. I made it through like five chapters where nothing except sex and dating happened and then I was out. I’m assuming whatever the final conflict was it will involve Luke acting like a mega-dick (which is like a mega-shark only made out of dick) and Natalie being perfect in every way.

  Right now this book is free so if you want to try it, go crazy. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you.

  This book is available (and currently free) at Goodreads | Amazon | BN | Kobo

• Scandalicious
  http://www.scandaliciousbookreviews.com/reviews/review-fight-with-me-by-kristen-proby/
  Word count: 1002

  QUOTE:
  The sex in this book is completely and utterly scandalicious,
  All in all, the story is fun, fast paced and has just enough angst to piss you off a little

  Fight With Me by Kristen Proby
  “Jules is full of sass and Nate is, well Nate is the pierced mother fucking man. ”

  by Scandal
  THE DEETS
  Genre: contemporary | Series: With Me In Seattle #2 | Source: self purchase | GoodReads
  PURCHASE

  US

  Holy shit Nate McKenna is the mother fucking man. (smooches Linnik) Not gonna lie, I’ve struggled with how to rate this book, originally I was going with 4 stars but frankly, Nate with the sexy whispering, Nate in the kitchen, Nate and his creative penis and Nate with his lickable tattoos made me push it up a notch. If you are unfamiliar with the term apadravya, google it now but know, it is NSFW in the biggest of ways. My Guy was out of town, in Vegas, when I read this book, unlucky for me. I sent him a text suggesting he find a reputable shop in Vegas and bring home a little something that might set off the TSA metal detectors. A few moments passed (probably long enough for him to google and pick his jaw up from the floor) and the text back to me read:

  No fucking way, are you drunk or have you officially lost your mind. You know I’ll do anything for you, I treat you all kinds of good but that shit ain’t happening to my dick.

  I love that guy. I knew that would be the answer but hey, you never get unless you ask, right?!!? I’m pretty sure I’ll have to add in some special treats for him when he gets home to make up for the scary things he saw on google images!

  Anyway, back to the book. We get a little taste of Nate and Julianne in Come Away With Me. In fact, Ms. Proby does that little writer trick where you get a little glimpse of something about a secondary character in a book and then you get the real story of what happens to said secondary character in the next book…I love that shit. I have a bit of an issue with Jules. Don’t get me wrong, I love her sass but for a woman as beautiful and smart and seemingly well adjusted as she is, she has some self esteem issues that manifest themselves into runner traits. Yep, Jules is a bit of a runner, instead of a stand and fighter, at least in the beginning. She rediscovers her strength at the end, thank the pierced penis gods, but damn – so much conflict can be avoided if people would just talk, no?!!? Julianne does do an excellent job helping Nate reign in his anger…growing up with a house full of guys definitely taught her how to manage testosterone outbursts effectively in public and any overflow is handled very nicely on the stairs when she and Nate get home.

  In my experience, women are especially catty. The men I’ve worked with have been driven, and don’t involve a lot of emotion into work. There’s just no time for it. But women are a different breed. What is it with the women and drama?

  I would like to pose that question to you guys. I happen to think Julianne is spot on with that assessment. And that shit starts young, no? Baby Scandal has to deal with girl shit in elementary school and usually it’s over boys…already, in elementary school. Sorry, rant over but I highlighted that quote because I found it to be very honest. It’s something that’s always puzzled me. Honestly, it’s why I’ve usually preferred guy friends to girl friends…less drama and they don’t mind my dirty mouth! Moving on…

  There is a whole lot of fucking going on in this book. A WHOLE LOT. A whole lot of panty and yoga pant ripping, a whole lotta eating at the Y, and a little scene on a motorcycle that just about melted my Kindle. The sex in this book is completely and utterly scandalicious, in fact there might be a picture of Nate McKenna in the dictionary next to the word scandalicious. If you need a book to rev up your libido, Fight With Me is the book for you…just make sure your partner isn’t away on business or you’ll be forced to take matters into your own hands. True story.

  Another thing I love about this story, or I guess this series is Julianne’s family. They are freaking awesome. Her parents are lovely and her brothers are so insanely hot, you just have to touch it (JT’s Suit and Tie reference). Will, Matt, Calab and Isaac are the epitome of protective, sexy, alpha men that send your ovaries into overdrive when they saunter into a room. Seriously, as each one entered the baby shower for Luke and Nat, I swear the temperature in my room went up a notch! We get a little tease for Will’s story…I like Will, he’s a professional football player – Julianne’s parents must be descendants from the gods because her gene pool is outstanding. All in all, the story is fun, fast paced and has just enough angst to piss you off a little (I’m looking at Carly and the ex who shall not be named). Jules is full of sass and Nate is, well Nate is the pierced mother fucking man.

  Smooches,

  Scandal

  Tags: 4.5 stars, action, Alpha men, Authors M-Z, Contemporary, foul language i love, hot sex, MMA fighter, My Guy, reviews, sassy women, strong women, wall sex

• Addicted to Romance
  http://addictedtoromance.org/2018/03/02/book-review-fight-with-me-by-kristen-proby/
  Word count: 913

  QUOTE:
  Fight With Me was simply so FUN to read and I just had a blast with Nate and Jules. I really just loved seeing them take risks to have a chance to be together. We see even from book one hints of their feelings for each other, but in this book is where they “act” on what they feel.

  March 2, 2018
  Book Review-Fight With Me By Kristen Proby
  Book Review-Fight With Me by Kristen Proby

  Book Review-Fight With Me by Kristen ProbyFight with Me by Kristen Proby
  Also in this series: Come Away with Me, Play with Me , Rock with Me, Safe with Me, Tied with Me
  Series: With Me In Seattle #2
  Published by Self Published By Author on December 30th 2012
  Genres: Contemporary Romance
  Narrator: Jennifer Mack
  Length: 9 Hours and 14 Mins
  Pages: 352
  Format: Audiobook
  Source: Audible Romance Package
  Goodreads
  AmazonLibrary ThingLibrary ThingLibrary ThingLibrary Thing
  One StarOne StarOne StarOne Star
  four-flames
  Jules Montgomery is too busy and content with her life to worry about a man, especially one Nate McKenna. If growing up with four brothers has taught her anything, she knows to stay away from sexy men with tattoos and motorcycles. That goes double if he's your boss. During the one incredible night they shared, he violated the no fraternization policy...among other things, and it won't happen again. Jules won't risk her career for mind-blowing sex, no matter how much her body and her damn heart keep arguing with her.

  Nate McKenna could give a shit about the no fraternizing policy. He wants Jules and he'll have her. The rules could bend around them, or be damned. He's not a man to be taken lightly, and Jules Montgomery is about to find out just how he responds to being pushed aside after the best night of sex he's ever had. She can fight all she wants, but he'll have her in his bed in the end.

  FIGHT WITH ME is the second novel in the With Me In Seattle Series.

  Fight With Me is a stunning addition to the Seattle series by Kristen Proby. Now this story we see glimpses of in the first book “Come Away With Me”. I will admit that I wasn’t sure about this one since I wasn’t really in the whole drama and conflict aspects of the story but no worries I fell in love instantly.

  Our heroine, Jules Montgomery, loves her job and has worked hard to get to the position that she is in. But she has one rule “DONT DATE THE BOSS” which is really difficult to do when the man in question doesn’t take no especially when he knows that isn’t what she really wants. Jules is independent and a fighter and having been raised by brothers, she can hold her own. But when Nate comes back for more, insisting that they take a chance even at the risk of losing their jobs, Jules doesn’t want to keep fighting her attracting to Nate. While on the job, they act as indifferent towards each other as ever. But off the job, their chemistry is off the charts and they are living life having passionate sex….working out together and cooking meals in Nate’s beautiful kitchen. But both Nate and Jules have enemies that want to bring them down, and if their relationship comes to light both of them could be at risk as well as what they have together….

  Fight With Me was simply so FUN to read and I just had a blast with Nate and Jules. I really just loved seeing them take risks to have a chance to be together. We see even from book one hints of their feelings for each other, but in this book is where they “act” on what they feel. I was really curious to see how this relationship would be dealt because Jules is SO independent and willful at times and so dang stubborn. But Nate is determined and fights for what he wants and so patient at times. He wins her whole family over, including her older and very protective brothers, they teach each other how to truly love and they enjoy being together so much. We see it in the little ways…from cooking in the kitchen, to grappling each other in the fighter ring (which was quite interesting since our hero used to be a MMA fighter and Jules held her own) and seriously this scene made me want to go learn kickboxing and self-defense like NOW hehe Like honestly, this book made me want to go out and exercise…crazy I know….but somehow it makes you want to work out in the gym.

  What I was most nervous about was the climax where we just know where this story is leading, where everyone learns the “truth” about their relationship and boy it worked me over so much but truly seeing Nate and Jules find their HEA in such a poignant and heartwarming way just weaves its way into your heart and emotions. Kristen Proby has struck again and delivered such a beautifully written romance that makes me eager for book three with the pro football player (one of those alpha male brothers of Jules I had a blast with)

• Vilma Iris Blog
  https://vilmairis.com/breathewithme/
  Word count: 1099

  QUOTE:
  wonderfully addictive second chance love story
  that was equal parts romance and sexiness.

  Review: Breathe With Me (#7, With Me In Seattle) by Kristen Proby
  My Thoughts
  A wonderfully addictive second chance love story
  that was equal parts romance and sexiness.
  Fans of the series will fall in love with Meredith and Mark!

  4stars

  Synopsis
  Breathe-With-Me-CoverSometimes you meet the right person at the wrong time…

  Mark Williams has loved Meredith since he was seventeen. A successful man with a strong family, he’s worked hard to move on from Meredith breaking his heart all those years ago. When his path crosses with the only woman he’s ever loved again years later, Mark knows there is nothing he won’t do to keep her in his life. But when the going gets tough, will Meredith stick around or will he lose her again?

  …But true love has a way of finding its way back.

  Meredith Summers is a dancer. One of the first things she learned in following her dreams is that timing is everything. She has spent the past ten years following her dream touring with mega-stars while trying to forget the high school sweetheart she left behind. Now she’s back in Seattle, running a successful dance studio with her best friend Jax and determined to move on from her gypsy past. Until the day she sees Mark Williams and time stands still. It’s as if no time has passed at all when Meredith finds herself in Mark’s arms again. The chemistry, the bonds and the love are as strong as ever and hearing Mark whisper breathe with me in her ear is a balm to her wounded soul. But will she grab onto this second chance at love, or is the timing all wrong for them again?

  Don’t miss catching up with the Montgomery and Williams clans in this latest installment of the With Me In Seattle Series from New York Times bestselling author, Kristen Proby.

  My Review
  Kristen Proby has the unique ability to create a story that is witty, sexy and romantic all at once. Her books are deliciously addictive with just the right amounts of steam and heart, helping to build a strong connection between her two protagonists. It’s so enjoyable to jump into a book where I get to see characters I’ve read and loved before, all interacting together in a way that made me laugh, blush and swoon. Breathe With Me is the story of Meredith and Mark, affectionately known as M & M. Their tale is one rife with love and desire, friendship and closeness, as well as the well-meaning, but often costly blunders of first love.

  “I’m knew every inch of her. I knew what turned her on and what made her squirm. What made her smile. What made her sigh in pleasure. But better than that, I knew what made her laugh. What made her sad. How to cheer her up and even what she was going to say before she said it. I knew everything. She was my world.”
  Mark Williams and Meredith Summers fell in love as teenagers. They loved each other deeply. They depended on each other. They were the closest of friends and each other’s firsts in many things. At the brink of new beginnings and on the path they were to take together, Meredith breaks Mark’s heart, choosing her love of dance at the cost of their young, but very real relationship. And after ten years apart, after life and other lovers, and work and ambitions realized, they meet again in Seattle. Immediately all the feelings of intimacy and love flood them both, as if no second was lost.

  “I still think of her as mine. After all this time when I think of Meredith, she’s my Meredith. Irrational? Yes. Stupid? Most definitely.”
  Meredith has followed her dreams over the years, pursuing her love of dance relentlessly, but seeing Mark dredges up a maelstrom of feelings. Guilt. Hope. Love. And Mark, he realizes immediately that Meredith is still very much it for him. With just one gaze, one hug, he’s back to his youth, needing this woman now more than ever. He’s determined to not lose her again.

  “I’m fucking in love with hear again already. I’m never letting her go. Never again.”
  As Meredith and Mark give their relationship another shot, they must get to know each other as the people they are now… work to overcome their insecurities and fears. They didn’t part on good terms and all those feelings need to come out before they can pursue a second chance at love. Mark was deeply hurt when Meredith left him and he fears that will happen yet again.

  “There were days I would have traded a year of my life to touch you again.”
  Meredith has lost so many loved ones in her life and she’s afraid to give herself completely to Mark out of fear of losing him. She can’t imagine bearing a life without him… again.

  “Am I making a mistake? Am I letting myself fall back into love with him and setting myself up for heartbreak when it all falls apart?”
  You can absolutely feel the closeness between these two people. It’s wonderfully heartwarming and uplifting to see Meredith come into the crazy fold that is the Montgomery/Williams clan. Mark is so deeply in love with Meredith and the things he says to her totally made my heart felt. And not to mention, the chemistry between them absolutely sizzles! I loved how Kristen Proby explores the ties that bind, the real difficulties of second chances and the lasting power of first loves. I would’ve loved a bit more angst, or a bigger conflict to challenge their happy ending, but even so, it was entirely enjoyable, addictive and easily devoured. I found myself feeling full and happy by the story’s end and truth be told, what more can I ask for? Fans of the With Me In Seattle series will surely fall in love with Mer and Mark!

  “It’s everything. I crave everything about you. Your body, your laughter, the way you make me feel when I’m with you. You’re my drug, Meredith.”

• Once Upon a Book Blog
  https://onceuponabookblog.com/2018/05/29/review-stay-with-me-with-me-in-seattle-9-by-kristen-proby/
  Word count: 1908

  QUOTE:
  tay With Me was everything that I could have asked for and then some. It was fun. It was sweet. It was oh so swoon-worthy and romantic. I laughed. I swooned. My heart ached. I was filled with so many emotions and just couldn’t get enough. I was hooked on Amelia and Wyatt instantly. I loved their connection and just how effortless things were between the two of them.

  Release Blitz with Review: Stay With Me (With Me In Seattle #9) by Kristen Proby
  Posted on May 29, 2018 by Amy-OUABB
  SWM-SBPRBANNER-RB

  Stay With Me by Kristen Proby
  Series: With Me In Seattle #9
  Release Date: May 29, 2018

  Stay With Me FOR WEB

  Synopsis:

  From New York Times Bestselling Author Kristen Proby comes Stay With Me, an all new addition to the series that has sold more than a million copies to date, her beloved With Me In Seattle Series!

  Amelia Montgomery has left her past behind her. With a beauty and fashion career that’s skyrocketing and a loving family around her, everything else is just junk in the rearview mirror.

  Until it’s not.

  When she has to drop out of the public eye, her cousin Jules offers her a new, temporary life on the Puget Sound. Her past may be catching up with her, but hope for the future is in Seattle.

  Wyatt Crawford can’t figure out the enigmatic beauty who’s living next door. As an architect, he’s usually good at looking beneath the surface—but she barely even leaves her house.

  Until she needs his help.

  When she knocks on his door, how can he resist? It isn’t long before Wyatt and Amelia become more than just neighbors. But when he finally learns the truth, will the skeletons in her closet be too much for him to handle, or will he stay?

  SWM AN 5

  Read Today!

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  My Review
  “I turn to him and see so much in his eyes. Affection. Lust. Trust. It’s the trust that makes my heart stutter because by God, I trust him, too.”

  “My heart shatters as his eyes fill with tears, and I know I’ve fallen just as hard as he has. I am his. And he is absofuckinglutely mine.”

  “Wyatt complements me beautifully. Where I’m a dreamer, he’s a thinker. Where I’m silly, he’s grounded. And the love he shows me in unlike anything I’ve ever known. There are no strings. No expectations. Just love.”

  I don’t know about you guys, but ever since author Kristen Proby announced Stay With Me, I have been absolutely giddy waiting to get it in my hands. As some of you know The With Me In Seattle Series is one of my all time favorites. Their is just something about the Montgomery family that just completely captivates me. So, to hear that there would be another book in this series, well my excitement was off the charts and the bar was set high. And I gotta say, Kristen Proby does not disappoint!

  Stay With Me is a sweet and swoon-worthy romance and a fabulous addition to The With Me In Seattle Series. This book was like a breath of fresh air, yet it felt like I was coming home all at the same time.

  Stay With Me follows the story of Amelia and Wyatt. Amelia wants nothing more to leave the past behind her, so when she’s told to stay out of the public eye for a while, she couldn’t be happier to return back home. Thanks to her cousin Jules, she has a place to stay. Someplace where she can just hide out, unwind and focus on her budding career. Everything seems to be on track until she meets the neighbor next door. He’s good-looking, successful and everything Amelia should be staying away from. But, when Amelia needs help, Wyatt is sure to come running. Soon enough, these neighbors become more. And just when Amelia is finally finding some happiness. The rug is about to be pulled out from under her. When Amelia’s past catches up to her, will Wyatt stick around?? There’s only one way to find out….

  Stay With Me was everything that I could have asked for and then some. It was fun. It was sweet. It was oh so swoon-worthy and romantic. I laughed. I swooned. My heart ached. I was filled with so many emotions and just couldn’t get enough. I was hooked on Amelia and Wyatt instantly. I loved their connection and just how effortless things were between the two of them. Sure they both had their baggage and experienced some ups and downs, but for the most part, they made romance just look easy. Wyatt was everything you could want in a Kristen Proby hero. He was smart, loving, bossy and devoted. I loved when his caveman like tendencies would come out! And Amelia…. She was strong, independent and just wanted to be loved. Together, these two made such a great match. I loved watching them explore their feelings and seeing where things were going to go.

  Stay With Me was the absolute perfect read to spend my day getting lost in. I felt like I was coming home and totally got lost in the characters and their story. Before I knew it, hours had passed and I was still glued to the pages. I couldn’t put it down. This story swept me off my feet and left me smiling like a fool. I loved everything about this story from beginning to end.

  Stay With Me is a fabulous addition to The With Me In Seattle Series. I loved being a part of The Montgomery Clan again and can not wait to read more. Thank you so much, Kristen Proby for providing this fan with more from her favorite series.

  *I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*

  Excerpt:
  I bang on his door and look around. No lights on in the houses on the street. His car is in the driveway, so I know he’s home. I mean, it’s the middle of the night, so where else would he be?

  I bang again. If he’s sleeping, which I can’t imagine how he could through that noise, he can just wake up and deal with me. I may sound irrational right now, but damn it, a girl needs to sleep.

  Finally, he yanks the door open and glares at me with shining hazel eyes.

  “What is that noise?” I demand.

  “You. You are the noise.” His chest is heaving. His naked, slightly hairy, very sexy chest. Not to mention, his light brown hair is a mess, and his chin is stubbled, and his tattoos are just…yum.

  “There’s a chirping,” I insist, trying to ignore the fact that he’s only wearing short boxer briefs. The kind that clings to a man’s ass and shows off his thighs.

  And, you know, other things. Like the generously sized dick outlined in the cotton.

  Holy hell.

  “I don’t hear anything.”

  I scowl and pause, listening. Sure enough, it’s gone.

  “Come on.” I grab his hand and pull him behind me. I can hear the door shut. “You have to hear this.”

  “It’s two in the fucking morning,” he says but doesn’t pull away from the grip I have on his wrist. “Can’t this wait?”

  “No, because I can’t sleep.” I pull him into my house and shut the door, then hold my hand up. “Stop. Listen.”

  Chirp.

  “See!” I push my finger into his firm chest, and then back up a step so I’m not standing so close to his sexiness. Because I seriously want to attack him.

  “So change the battery in the smoke detector.” He shrugs and turns to leave, but I run in front of him and block the door.

  “I’ve looked for it everywhere, Wyatt. It’s not in this house.”

  He frowns. “Well, it’s not at my house.”

  “Please, help me.” I bite my lower lip and watch as he pushes his hand through his already messy hair and feel my nether regions immediately sit up and take notice.

  “Can you put clothes on?”

  “I’m wearing clothes.” I roll my eyes and lead him through the living area, the kitchen, and out to the backyard. “Where is the chirping coming from?”

  “You don’t have a robe you could put on?”

  I turn to frown at him. “You’re only wearing underwear.”

  “Yeah, because it was the only thing I had time to pull on when you were banging my door in.”

  1P0A9162Meet Kristen:

  Kristen was born and raised in a small resort town in her beloved Montana. In her mid-twenties, she decided to stretch her wings and move to the Pacific Northwest, where she made her home for more than a dozen years.

  During that time, Kristen wrote many romance novels and joined organizations such as RWA and other small writing groups. She spent countless hours in workshops, and more mornings than she can count up before the dawn so she could write before going to work. She submitted many manuscripts to agents and editors alike, but was always told no. In the summer of 2012, the self-publishing scene was new and thriving, and Kristen had one goal: to publish just one book. It was something she longed to cross off of her bucket list.

  Not only did she publish one book, she’s since published close to thirty titles, many of which have hit the USA Today, New York Times and Wall Street Journal Bestsellers lists. She continues to self publish, best known for her With Me In Seattle and Boudreaux series, and is also proud to work with William Morrow, a division of HarperCollins, with the Fusion Series.

  Kristen and her husband, John, make their home in her hometown of Whitefish, Montana with their two pugs and two cats.

  Connect with Kristen:

  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BooksByKristenProby/
  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Handbagjunkie
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristenproby/
  BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kristen-proby
  Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2kBRdpj
  Amazon: http://amzn.to/2BD4vfq
  Pinterest: @handbagjunkie
  Website: https://www.kristenprobyauthor.com/
  Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/kristenproby/newsletter-sign-up

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