worldofbooks65 's review for:

Where We Bloom by Kristen Proby
5.0
emotional slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 fiercely swoony stars)

Let’s be honest—when the second book in Kristen Proby’s The Blackwells of Montana series wrapped up, were you not practically vibrating with anticipation for Book 3? I know I was. The tease of Irishman Connor and bookshop owner Billie’s story had me counting down the days—and Where We Bloom delivered everything I hoped for and more.

Returning to Bitterroot Valley feels like stepping into a warm embrace. Kristen Proby has a magical way of making her settings feel like home, and this one is no different. You’re not just reading about this quaint, charming town—you live there for a few hundred pages. The air is thick with longing, the mountains whisper secrets, and the heat? Let’s just say it comes with a capital S for swoon.

This story combines some of my favorite tropes: Age gap. Best friend’s brother. Billionaire loner. Second-chance-esque mystery night. And it’s all wrapped up in Kristen’s signature mix of heartfelt emotion and sizzling chemistry.

Let’s talk about Connor Gallagher -  CEO of Gallagher Hotels a guarded Irishman with power, influence, and a heart that’s been locked up tight for far too long. He’s used to being in control. He doesn’t do commitment. But one night with an unnamed, unforgettable woman sends his world off its axis—and he hasn’t been able to get her out of his mind since. Imagine his surprise when that very woman walks into his life… as his little sister’s best friend.

And then there’s Billie. Oh, Billie. She might just be one of my favorite Proby heroines. A fierce, independent, no-nonsense woman who is unapologetically herself. She’s strong and stubborn, witty and warm, and has such an authentic confidence in her own skin. I loved how she owned her space, spoke her truth, and held her ground—even when Connor’s irresistible pull threatened to undo her. She doesn’t need anyone, but there’s something incredibly beautiful about the way she lets Connor in, slowly, vulnerably, and on her terms.

Their chemistry is absolutely electric. That one night of anonymous passion may have ignited the spark, but it’s the emotional slow burn that had me flipping pages like wildfire. The push and pull, the tension, the raw honesty in their conversations—it’s the kind of romance that grabs you by the heart and doesn’t let go. And when Connor finally drops his walls? Prepare for all the “Touch her and die” vibes and some of the most protective, swoony gestures you’ll ever read. I was melting.

And let’s not forget the delightful touches that make this book so immersive: Billie’s quirky thrift shop finds, her love of coffee that rivals my own, the warmth of the Blackwell family, and the hilarious, heartwarming book club nights that make you wish you could pull up a chair and join. There’s something so grounding in those everyday moments that balance out the glamor of billionaire life and the tension of looming threats.

Because yes—danger is brewing. Connor’s power and past mean enemies lurk in the shadows, and the final act takes us on a thrilling journey from Montana to the bustling energy of New York to the green, windswept hills of Ireland. But no matter where the story goes, the heartbeat is always Connor and Billie.

Kristen Proby continues to prove that she’s a master of romance—not just the steamy, sweeping kind, but the kind that roots itself in characters, growth, and authentic emotion. Where We Bloom is romantic, empowering, tender, and deeply passionate.

Billie and Connor’s story blooms in the most breathtaking way, and I’m already desperate for more time in Bitterroot Valley. Bring on the next Blackwell—this series just keeps getting better.