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The Blackwells of Montana #1
When We Burn
Bridger
I’m her safe place.
I always have been.
The torment that Dani Lexington went through at the hands of her father was something no child should have had to endure. But I was the lucky one she turned to.
Our age difference and the fact that her brother was my best friend kept her off-limits, even though something was always there, lingering under the surface.
But when she was old enough, she left Bitterroot Valley, and I was forced to move on with my life.
I got married and had my little girl. Now, I’m a single dad, focused on my job as fire chief and making sure my daughter stays healthy after a mysterious illness has plagued her for the past year.
But after Dani’s father dies, she returns to Bitterroot Valley and is now living across the street from my daughter and me.
Dani’s no longer a child. No longer off limits.
This time, I won’t let anything or anyone stop me from being her safe place again.
Dani
I’ve been in love with Bridger Blackwell for as long as I can remember.
He’s a smoke show, kind, and gives the best hugs in the world. But best of all? He’s everything my sorry excuse for a father wasn’t.
Now, I’m back in Bitterroot Valley, living across the street from Bridger and his adorable daughter.
It doesn’t take long for all those old feelings to come rushing back, and every cell in my body knows that I belong with them.
That they’re mine.
Bridger’s arms are where I feel safest. They feel like home.
I’m growing to depend on him, to truly love him and his daughter. But I have deep-rooted baggage, and Bridger’s past has decided to rear its ugly head.
Will we survive this, or is our relationship doomed from the start?
I’m her safe place.
I always have been.
The torment that Dani Lexington went through at the hands of her father was something no child should have had to endure. But I was the lucky one she turned to.
Our age difference and the fact that her brother was my best friend kept her off-limits, even though something was always there, lingering under the surface.
But when she was old enough, she left Bitterroot Valley, and I was forced to move on with my life.
I got married and had my little girl. Now, I’m a single dad, focused on my job as fire chief and making sure my daughter stays healthy after a mysterious illness has plagued her for the past year.
But after Dani’s father dies, she returns to Bitterroot Valley and is now living across the street from my daughter and me.
Dani’s no longer a child. No longer off limits.
This time, I won’t let anything or anyone stop me from being her safe place again.
Dani
I’ve been in love with Bridger Blackwell for as long as I can remember.
He’s a smoke show, kind, and gives the best hugs in the world. But best of all? He’s everything my sorry excuse for a father wasn’t.
Now, I’m back in Bitterroot Valley, living across the street from Bridger and his adorable daughter.
It doesn’t take long for all those old feelings to come rushing back, and every cell in my body knows that I belong with them.
That they’re mine.
Bridger’s arms are where I feel safest. They feel like home.
I’m growing to depend on him, to truly love him and his daughter. But I have deep-rooted baggage, and Bridger’s past has decided to rear its ugly head.
Will we survive this, or is our relationship doomed from the start?
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 20, 2025
3752 people are currently reading
5334 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Proby
140 books16.3k followersKristen Proby is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over seventy published titles. She debuted in 2012, captivating fans with spicy contemporary romance about families and friends with plenty of swoony love. She also writes paranormal romance and suggests you keep the lights on while reading them.
When not under deadline, Kristen enjoys spending time with her husband and their fur babies, riding her bike, relaxing with embroidery, trying her hand at painting, and, of course, enjoying her beautiful home in the mountains of Montana.
When not under deadline, Kristen enjoys spending time with her husband and their fur babies, riding her bike, relaxing with embroidery, trying her hand at painting, and, of course, enjoying her beautiful home in the mountains of Montana.
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February 20, 2025Available now!
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Dyb04e
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/WhenWeBurn
Audible: https://bit.ly/4aZHUHI
Narrated by: Erin Mallon & Sean Masters
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/41SPt0m
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Dyb04e
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/WhenWeBurn
Audible: https://bit.ly/4aZHUHI
Narrated by: Erin Mallon & Sean Masters
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/41SPt0m
March 11, 2025
dnf @25%- every time he called her kitten i died a little inside. when she said daddy that was my last straw
February 18, 2025
I never wanted to leave the Wilds of Montana, but I think the Blackwells will be a dream come true.
This was a cozy, sexy, and heart-warming love story. I don't know what other words to use to describe Kristen Proby at this point. Haha! But she always delivers for me.
I loved Bridger and Dani together! They were already almost family, due to how Bridger's family had welcomed in Dani and her siblings, but now it's official! They have recently become neighbors and Bridger is ready to take his shot. Everyone knows it's meant to be, except maybe for Dani.
Really the only downside, is the arsonist currently keeping the town on edge. There's no 3rd act break up, just a smidge of baby mama drama, but truly it's a nothing burger.
This was just a great time. I was smiling the whole way through. I think if you love anything previously by KP, you'll enjoy this too!
Narrated by Sean Masters & Erin Mallon to charming effect! As I always say, Sean Masters is the King of Country men and Cowboys to me. He just slays it. And Erin Mallon is the perfect compliment.
5 Stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: parental abuse (past), harm to animals (mentioned), arson
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*
This was a cozy, sexy, and heart-warming love story. I don't know what other words to use to describe Kristen Proby at this point. Haha! But she always delivers for me.
I loved Bridger and Dani together! They were already almost family, due to how Bridger's family had welcomed in Dani and her siblings, but now it's official! They have recently become neighbors and Bridger is ready to take his shot. Everyone knows it's meant to be, except maybe for Dani.
Really the only downside, is the arsonist currently keeping the town on edge. There's no 3rd act break up, just a smidge of baby mama drama, but truly it's a nothing burger.
This was just a great time. I was smiling the whole way through. I think if you love anything previously by KP, you'll enjoy this too!
Narrated by Sean Masters & Erin Mallon to charming effect! As I always say, Sean Masters is the King of Country men and Cowboys to me. He just slays it. And Erin Mallon is the perfect compliment.
5 Stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: parental abuse (past), harm to animals (mentioned), arson
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*
February 25, 2025
I have read other books by this author and enjoyed them but this one was a big disappointment. There was no plot, just two people who were childhood friends getting together as adults way too soon in the story. At about 1/3 into the story the storyline finished but the author needed to fill up pages so she kept writing sex scenes in between family dinners, a concert, cooking for the firehouse guys, etc. I was determined to finish the book but had to skip a lot of pages to get to a dull conclusion.
July 3, 2025
This story follows Dani and Bridger. From a young age, Dani experienced harm from her father, and Bridger was the one she would run to for safety. At eighteen, she moved away to attend college. But now, Dani has returned to town, and Bridger can’t let her leave again. Will they finally take the plunge and fall for one another?
I really enjoyed this book! The audiobook is great, so be sure to pick it up. I loved how Dani and Bridger had history from a young age—both secretly falling for each other, but due to age and distance, the timing was never right. I didn’t expect them to reconnect so quickly, but it worked. Normally, I love a bit of a chase and a slow burn, but I didn’t mind how fast their relationship developed because their connection was strong, and the spice was fantastic. Bridger was so caring, protective, and always listened to Dani. Birdie is the cutest kid!
I will say I guessed who was responsible for the final fire, and I thought the last few chapters felt a bit rushed and didn’t expect it to end so quick. Over all this was a great read.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 8hrs 44mins
Narrators: Sean Masters and Erin Mallon - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Book One In The Blackwells Of Montana Series
Tropes or Themes: Small Town, Single Dad, Friends To Lovers, Neighbours, Mutual Pining, Suspense, Protective MMC, Firefighter MMC, FMC Teacher, Jealousy, Taken Care Of, Mine, Past Trauma, Violence, Child Abuse, Vomit, Medical Content, Fire, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Kitchen Scene and Bath Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
I really enjoyed this book! The audiobook is great, so be sure to pick it up. I loved how Dani and Bridger had history from a young age—both secretly falling for each other, but due to age and distance, the timing was never right. I didn’t expect them to reconnect so quickly, but it worked. Normally, I love a bit of a chase and a slow burn, but I didn’t mind how fast their relationship developed because their connection was strong, and the spice was fantastic. Bridger was so caring, protective, and always listened to Dani. Birdie is the cutest kid!
I will say I guessed who was responsible for the final fire, and I thought the last few chapters felt a bit rushed and didn’t expect it to end so quick. Over all this was a great read.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 8hrs 44mins
Narrators: Sean Masters and Erin Mallon - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Book One In The Blackwells Of Montana Series
Tropes or Themes: Small Town, Single Dad, Friends To Lovers, Neighbours, Mutual Pining, Suspense, Protective MMC, Firefighter MMC, FMC Teacher, Jealousy, Taken Care Of, Mine, Past Trauma, Violence, Child Abuse, Vomit, Medical Content, Fire, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Kitchen Scene and Bath Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
February 15, 2025
4.5⭐️ | 3🌶
Listen, that prologue was BRUTAL! I was crying 6% in. PLEASE CHECK TW! Bridger, Dani and Birdie were just fantastic. I was so excited for Kristen's next series after The Wilds and it is off to a great start! Kristen's writing is always filled with emotion, pain and laughs. With the perfect balance. My heart shattered many times (but one time especially was the scene with Dani & Mason iykyk). I hurt for Birdie because I hated she felt sick most of the time. I loved the band of women that was formed in this and I adored the senior Blackwells and that they were parents to the Lexingtons.
I cannot wait for book 2. Thank you to valentine pr for this arc.
Listen, that prologue was BRUTAL! I was crying 6% in. PLEASE CHECK TW! Bridger, Dani and Birdie were just fantastic. I was so excited for Kristen's next series after The Wilds and it is off to a great start! Kristen's writing is always filled with emotion, pain and laughs. With the perfect balance. My heart shattered many times (but one time especially was the scene with Dani & Mason iykyk). I hurt for Birdie because I hated she felt sick most of the time. I loved the band of women that was formed in this and I adored the senior Blackwells and that they were parents to the Lexingtons.
I cannot wait for book 2. Thank you to valentine pr for this arc.
March 11, 2025
This was my first book by Kristen Proby and I loved every second of it. I can't even tell you how fast I flew through the audiobook - I simply couldn't stop listening! It was giving all the childhood friends to lover, forced proximity feels with a side of small-town charm. The chemistry? 🔥 The tragic past and storyline? SO GOOD. It also was spicier than I thought it would be, which is always a huge plus in my eyes. If you love rekindled love and a little angst, this one’s got you covered! Oh, and did I mention he is a Firefighter AND single dad *swoon*
I can't wait for the next book in this new Blackwells of Montana series! Thank you to MLA for the early audio copy.
I can't wait for the next book in this new Blackwells of Montana series! Thank you to MLA for the early audio copy.
May 29, 2025
an easy read? sure. this book is whatever the complete opposite of slow burn would be called. also ‘kitten’ should be exiled as a pet name.
July 25, 2025
DNF @ 30%
Cringey "kitten" nonsense
Cringey "kitten" nonsense
February 28, 2025
First, I'll admit I've been in a book slump, but mostly because I'm tired of reading the same unoriginal story over and over again.
I was so disappointed in this one. I found it boring, cliche, and unoriginal.
Spoilers ahead,
First, if her father was as bad as described, basically worse than Satan, how did no one step in and save these kids?! No police, no cps, no teacher, no neighbors, (who the kids ran to for comfort), not the 15 year old brother who raised the small ones and could have called police, nobody. The father confessed to killing the mother, tortures small animals, and tries to kill his own children.
Second, in the beginning, the constant panic attacks and shaking and zoning out because she's so traumatized got boring fast. In one scene she has a panic attack because a kitten jumps in her lamp and reminds her of the animals her father tortured, then another scene she's playing with puppies and totally fine?
Third, no chemistry between the two main characters but we're to believe she moves back to town and he sees her and suddenly he's in love with her and she's his. Insert eye roll
Fourth, nobody and I mean nobody should have to hear Erin Mallon do an Irish accent.
Fifth, the ending was wrapped up in a neat little bow that was so convenient for the main characters.
I was so disappointed in this one. I found it boring, cliche, and unoriginal.
Spoilers ahead,
First, if her father was as bad as described, basically worse than Satan, how did no one step in and save these kids?! No police, no cps, no teacher, no neighbors, (who the kids ran to for comfort), not the 15 year old brother who raised the small ones and could have called police, nobody. The father confessed to killing the mother, tortures small animals, and tries to kill his own children.
Second, in the beginning, the constant panic attacks and shaking and zoning out because she's so traumatized got boring fast. In one scene she has a panic attack because a kitten jumps in her lamp and reminds her of the animals her father tortured, then another scene she's playing with puppies and totally fine?
Third, no chemistry between the two main characters but we're to believe she moves back to town and he sees her and suddenly he's in love with her and she's his. Insert eye roll
Fourth, nobody and I mean nobody should have to hear Erin Mallon do an Irish accent.
Fifth, the ending was wrapped up in a neat little bow that was so convenient for the main characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2025
So cheesy and cute. BUT… I could go without hearing the pet name “kitten” for the rest of my life. 🤢
April 9, 2025
DNF at 50%. Kitten is the worst nickname of all time. I couldn’t get past it
April 27, 2025
2.5 stars
This has been my first Kristen Proby in a very long while. Like, her last book I'd read was six years ago. I forgot how much of a low angst author she is. Sure she did introduce some drama in the plot but honestly it was pretty much very safe read for most of her works.
Same as this one. The main trope is the friends to lovers-ish where they grew up together since their childhood. It's one of my least favourite trope, where most of their connection/knowing happened before the book started. So, it was an okay read, a middle of the scale read. Don't know what else to report though.
This has been my first Kristen Proby in a very long while. Like, her last book I'd read was six years ago. I forgot how much of a low angst author she is. Sure she did introduce some drama in the plot but honestly it was pretty much very safe read for most of her works.
Same as this one. The main trope is the friends to lovers-ish where they grew up together since their childhood. It's one of my least favourite trope, where most of their connection/knowing happened before the book started. So, it was an okay read, a middle of the scale read. Don't know what else to report though.
October 1, 2025
Another Kristen Proby masterpiece 😍
February 23, 2025
When We Burn
By: Kristen Proby
10/10 stars
3 spice
MAN OH MAN… I knew I was going to love the Blackwells, because I love everyttthinnng Kristen writes but, I am a little shocked I may love them more than The Wilds. I dont know if it’s because this book is about Bridger and Dani. (Dani being one of Holdens little sisters) or if I am just truly all in for this next series to come and rule my life.
TROPES: Single dad, best-friends sisters, forced proximity, friends to lovers, small-town suspense, age gap
FAVE QUOTES: “Dani?” “Yeah?” His eyes dart down to my lips, and I instinctively lick them again. “I want to kiss you.” “You do?” “Yeah, I fucking do. So, if that’s a problem for you, I need you to say so.”
“Like, if it were an Olympic sport, Bridger would not only be a gold medal winner, he’d hold all the world records for all time.”
“I like to hug. And not any of that half-assed pat-you-on-the-back bullshit, either. If I care enough about someone to hug them, I want to hug them.”
“Exactly. Your sister is mine. I’ll make sure she never wants for anything, and that includes a safe place. I’m her safe place. Have been since she was little.”
Bridger Blackwell is the fire chief of BitterRoot Valley. He is one of Holden and Millies bestfriends and has been in their lives since they were young. When Holden’s little sister, Dani, moves back to town, he knows he is not going to be able to resist the pull he has to her for much longer. He has always had a thing for her but, it was always the wrong time. Not anymore. He is going after what he wants, he is going to prove to her he is the one and the fact that she loves his little girl just makes him want her that much more.
Dani Lexington has been through it and coming back to BitterRoot Valley when her dad was alive, was never an option. The fact that he is dead and gone she wants to return home to be closer to her siblings and teach at the school there. When she moves across the street from the man she has been in love with since they were kids she has to try to not lose it around him. After a few close encounters she realizes maybe she hasn’t been the only one with feelings. She fell for Bridger a long time ago, and the fact that shes in love with his daughter too makes for the perfect HEA ever.
It can’t be all sunshine though, someone’s out to get the town, and the people Bridger cares about… who is it? Will he lose his shot with the one that got away?!
GO DOWNLOAD NOW- ITS ON KU AND ITS SO FREAKING GOOD.
By: Kristen Proby
10/10 stars
3 spice
MAN OH MAN… I knew I was going to love the Blackwells, because I love everyttthinnng Kristen writes but, I am a little shocked I may love them more than The Wilds. I dont know if it’s because this book is about Bridger and Dani. (Dani being one of Holdens little sisters) or if I am just truly all in for this next series to come and rule my life.
TROPES: Single dad, best-friends sisters, forced proximity, friends to lovers, small-town suspense, age gap
FAVE QUOTES: “Dani?” “Yeah?” His eyes dart down to my lips, and I instinctively lick them again. “I want to kiss you.” “You do?” “Yeah, I fucking do. So, if that’s a problem for you, I need you to say so.”
“Like, if it were an Olympic sport, Bridger would not only be a gold medal winner, he’d hold all the world records for all time.”
“I like to hug. And not any of that half-assed pat-you-on-the-back bullshit, either. If I care enough about someone to hug them, I want to hug them.”
“Exactly. Your sister is mine. I’ll make sure she never wants for anything, and that includes a safe place. I’m her safe place. Have been since she was little.”
Bridger Blackwell is the fire chief of BitterRoot Valley. He is one of Holden and Millies bestfriends and has been in their lives since they were young. When Holden’s little sister, Dani, moves back to town, he knows he is not going to be able to resist the pull he has to her for much longer. He has always had a thing for her but, it was always the wrong time. Not anymore. He is going after what he wants, he is going to prove to her he is the one and the fact that she loves his little girl just makes him want her that much more.
Dani Lexington has been through it and coming back to BitterRoot Valley when her dad was alive, was never an option. The fact that he is dead and gone she wants to return home to be closer to her siblings and teach at the school there. When she moves across the street from the man she has been in love with since they were kids she has to try to not lose it around him. After a few close encounters she realizes maybe she hasn’t been the only one with feelings. She fell for Bridger a long time ago, and the fact that shes in love with his daughter too makes for the perfect HEA ever.
It can’t be all sunshine though, someone’s out to get the town, and the people Bridger cares about… who is it? Will he lose his shot with the one that got away?!
GO DOWNLOAD NOW- ITS ON KU AND ITS SO FREAKING GOOD.
February 20, 2025
When We Burn- Kristen Proby
Narrated by Erin Mallon and Sean Masters
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Narration 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
The way I love this book… I don’t even know where to start because I just loved it so much. Dani and Bridger are literally everything. Freaking couple goals. They compliment each other in all the best ways and their chemistry is smoking hot from the very beginning, which is ironic as he’s a firefighter 😂😂 Dani is his daughters Kinder teacher and she falls in love with her as much as she’s been in love with Bridger her whole life.
Erin and Sean did so freaking fantastic. Sean’s deep sexy voice saying Bridgers dirty words 🥵🥵🥵 get me a fan! Erin was the perfect Dani!
Narrated by Erin Mallon and Sean Masters
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Narration 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
The way I love this book… I don’t even know where to start because I just loved it so much. Dani and Bridger are literally everything. Freaking couple goals. They compliment each other in all the best ways and their chemistry is smoking hot from the very beginning, which is ironic as he’s a firefighter 😂😂 Dani is his daughters Kinder teacher and she falls in love with her as much as she’s been in love with Bridger her whole life.
Erin and Sean did so freaking fantastic. Sean’s deep sexy voice saying Bridgers dirty words 🥵🥵🥵 get me a fan! Erin was the perfect Dani!
April 26, 2025
400 pages and didn’t even feel like there was much of a story. Way too much spice and no character development it felt. I wanted more from this but still finished it and liked it. Just ended up skipping a lot of scenes bc it wasn’t needed.
February 25, 2025
This childhood friends to lovers story will have you in all your feels 🥺 Bridger is DOWN BAD for Dani, despite knowing her painfully traumatic childhood and all of the baggage that comes along with her upbringing. When they were younger, the age gap was just too wide for them to work, so Bridger married a woman he got pregnant and Dani moved away from home for college to start fresh.
This second chance romance picks up when Dani moves home to be a kindergarten teacher and Bridger’s 5 year old daughter Birdie is in her class. And so these two kick off a hot and spicy whirlwind relationship to make up for lost time without one another.
Dani has so much healing to do, but watching her trust in Bridger, the way she develops a special connection with Birdie and even adopts a cat into her life, shows her growth and resilience in moving on from her past. There’s a major found family vibe in this story, not only because of Dani’s family being helped by Bridger’s as kids, but also the many sibling relationship dynamics and how they all lean into one another for support and love. 💕
There’s also a small element of suspense at play, as Bridger’s ex-wife comes back into the picture, attempting to take Birdie and get Bridger back. This villain was also Dani’s HS bully, introducing another layer of past pain into their present situation. These two deserved their happily ever after so much, after all of the trials they had gone through individually and as a couple.
You’re going to just LOVE kitten & chief 😉
Read if you like:
👨👧 Single Dad romance
🚒 Firefighter x Teacher
🏡 Small town
💔 Past Trauma
👩❤️💋👨 Childhood friends to lovers
📣 Dual 1st person POV
Thank you so much to Valentine PR and Kristen Proby for this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
This second chance romance picks up when Dani moves home to be a kindergarten teacher and Bridger’s 5 year old daughter Birdie is in her class. And so these two kick off a hot and spicy whirlwind relationship to make up for lost time without one another.
Dani has so much healing to do, but watching her trust in Bridger, the way she develops a special connection with Birdie and even adopts a cat into her life, shows her growth and resilience in moving on from her past. There’s a major found family vibe in this story, not only because of Dani’s family being helped by Bridger’s as kids, but also the many sibling relationship dynamics and how they all lean into one another for support and love. 💕
There’s also a small element of suspense at play, as Bridger’s ex-wife comes back into the picture, attempting to take Birdie and get Bridger back. This villain was also Dani’s HS bully, introducing another layer of past pain into their present situation. These two deserved their happily ever after so much, after all of the trials they had gone through individually and as a couple.
You’re going to just LOVE kitten & chief 😉
Read if you like:
👨👧 Single Dad romance
🚒 Firefighter x Teacher
🏡 Small town
💔 Past Trauma
👩❤️💋👨 Childhood friends to lovers
📣 Dual 1st person POV
Thank you so much to Valentine PR and Kristen Proby for this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
May 11, 2025
I mean this was just a good time!!
Who doesn’t love a small town romance with all these delicious tropes
- firefighter MMC
- single dad
- neighbours (close proximity)
- boy be obsessed
- his kids teacher
- best friends lil sister
Basically how to summon a Selina!! I adore anything KP writes and this was an absolute pleasure.
"I'm the one you always ran to before, and that's how it's
going to be now."
"So, no more friend zone."
"I f***ing hate the goddamn friend zone.”
Who doesn’t love a small town romance with all these delicious tropes
- firefighter MMC
- single dad
- neighbours (close proximity)
- boy be obsessed
- his kids teacher
- best friends lil sister
Basically how to summon a Selina!! I adore anything KP writes and this was an absolute pleasure.
"I'm the one you always ran to before, and that's how it's
going to be now."
"So, no more friend zone."
"I f***ing hate the goddamn friend zone.”
November 30, 2025
I FREAKEN LOVE BRIDGER!!! Single Dad. Dirty talker. And always had a soft spot for the female lead.
The union of these two is utterly beautiful and so sweet to fall in love. 🥰 She had a troublesome past with a horrible abusive father. His family was always there for her siblings, so naturally she had a crush on him.
Libby listen 🎶 👌
The union of these two is utterly beautiful and so sweet to fall in love. 🥰 She had a troublesome past with a horrible abusive father. His family was always there for her siblings, so naturally she had a crush on him.
Libby listen 🎶 👌
February 24, 2025
When We Burn by Kristen Proby 💛
The Blackwells of Montana, Book 1
Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Adult • Romance
ARC Review
414 pages
🗓️ February 20
💛firefighter romance
💛small town romance
💛childhood friends to more
💛single dad
💛neighbors to lovers
💛it’s always been you
💛boy obsessed
💛his kid’s teacher
💛best friend’s little sister
📍“So, no more friend zone.”
“I fvcking hate the goddamn friend zone.”
📍 “I’m the one you always ran to before, and that’s how it’s going to be now.”
I’ve been missing this little corner of Montana something fierce. And I’ve also been low key obsessed with Bridger since Holden and Millie’s story. So, you can pretty much imagine how excited I was reading this one 😁
But need to say something. I know the Blackwells are up there with the Wilds, but I’m quite head over heels with the Lexingtons. We already knew how swooning the brother was, but these sisters… my goodness, I’m not sure if I want to be them when I grow up (specially you Alex 😌) or to be their best friend — just call me Skyla.
You know this is a fire chief single dad who was slightly too old for his best friend’s sister back when she was over the moon with him but now he is not that much older and she’s back and driving him crazy from across the street where he lives, right?! *takes a breath * RIGHT?! R. I. G. H. T. ?. I don’t think I need much more to convince you to grab this one. At least, I don’t if we’re friends 😜
That epilogue and sneak peek has me all kinds of excited for the next book 😱
The Blackwells of Montana, Book 1
Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Adult • Romance
ARC Review
414 pages
🗓️ February 20
💛firefighter romance
💛small town romance
💛childhood friends to more
💛single dad
💛neighbors to lovers
💛it’s always been you
💛boy obsessed
💛his kid’s teacher
💛best friend’s little sister
📍“So, no more friend zone.”
“I fvcking hate the goddamn friend zone.”
📍 “I’m the one you always ran to before, and that’s how it’s going to be now.”
I’ve been missing this little corner of Montana something fierce. And I’ve also been low key obsessed with Bridger since Holden and Millie’s story. So, you can pretty much imagine how excited I was reading this one 😁
But need to say something. I know the Blackwells are up there with the Wilds, but I’m quite head over heels with the Lexingtons. We already knew how swooning the brother was, but these sisters… my goodness, I’m not sure if I want to be them when I grow up (specially you Alex 😌) or to be their best friend — just call me Skyla.
You know this is a fire chief single dad who was slightly too old for his best friend’s sister back when she was over the moon with him but now he is not that much older and she’s back and driving him crazy from across the street where he lives, right?! *takes a breath * RIGHT?! R. I. G. H. T. ?. I don’t think I need much more to convince you to grab this one. At least, I don’t if we’re friends 😜
That epilogue and sneak peek has me all kinds of excited for the next book 😱
February 24, 2025
I had a hard time getting into this one, the beginning just felt so hodge-podged and choppy, yet rushed. Then I wasn't a fan of the ending either. It also felt sooo rushed.
I did enjoy the middle though haha. It wasn't my favorite from this author but it wasn't bad.
I did enjoy the middle though haha. It wasn't my favorite from this author but it wasn't bad.
February 19, 2025
🎧𝗔𝗟𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪 - 𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗡 𝗪𝗘 𝗕𝗨𝗥𝗡
⏳𝟬𝟴𝗛 𝟰𝟱𝗠
🎙️𝗦𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 & 𝗘𝗿𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝗻
🧡ꜱᴍᴀʟʟ ᴛᴏᴡɴ ꜱᴜꜱᴘᴇɴꜱᴇ
🚒ꜱɪɴɢʟᴇ ᴅᴀᴅ
🧡ꜰɪʀᴇꜰɪɢʜᴛᴇʀ
🚒ꜰʀɪᴇɴᴅꜱ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀꜱ
❝ When We Burn is the first book of The Blackwells of Montana series. This one follows Bridger and Dani. Bridger is Dani’s brother’s best friend and he’s had feelings for her forever but never made a move, until it was too late. Dani has a tragic past that is so gut-wrenching the more we learn about it. I mean, give the girl a break. There were so many things that’s triggering to her, I’m not sure if I still need to feel sorry or to be annoyed; just saying.
💭Anyway, Dani leaves town, and Bridger moves on… unfortunately, with the worst possible person. Yeah, he ends up hooking up with Dani’s bully (ugh), and they have a daughter together. This part killed me—like, whyyy? But, thankfully, the ex is out of the picture, and Bridger is now a single dad. And guess what? Dani is back in town and, she’s now his daughter’s teacher. Bridger does not waste any time and goes all in to win her back.
🤔Now, if you’ve read my previous reviews, you know how I feel about suspense in this author’s books. But let’s be real, the cover sold me (Hello plus-size model!), and once I saw Sean Masters was narrating? No way was I missing this one. And honestly? I’m so glad I picked it up because I had the best time with it.
✅This was a fast paced story, they get together pretty quickly, and I love that. No unnecessary “will-they-won’t-they” drama; Bridger knows what he wants and actually goes for it. Thank God there’s no wishy-washy, fear-of-commitment nonsense because that trope drives me crazy. Dani, as a plus-size FMC, naturally has some insecurities, but I really appreciated that she didn’t dwell on them for too long. I also adored her bond with Bridger’s daughter and her siblings, it was so heartwarming, and I need more of them in future books.
🔥Now, let’s talk about the smuts. Listen, I love a good smut scene as much as the next gal, but this one had a lot. For a small-town romance, it was almost distracting from the actual story. That said, the fact that Sean Masters was narrating these scenes? Yeah, I wasn’t exactly complaining. But I can imagine if I was reading instead of listening, it might have felt a bit much. The emotional depth in Dani’s tragic past really got to me, though, it broke my heart. And don’t even get me started on the OW drama—it had me screaming in frustration because I saw that nonsense coming from a mile away. Thankfully, the suspense element didn’t go too wild, and (thank God) there was no ridiculous kidnapping thrown in at the end.
🎧Now, onto the real star of the show—Sean Masters. This man’s magnificent voice is an experience. Deep, charismatic, and straight-up panty-melting (yes, I said it, and I stand by it). Every time I listen to him, I’m just floored. And Erin? She’s my girl. She absolutely nailed Dani’s character and continues to impress me with her ability to do different accents and a very convincing male voice. Just chef’s kiss.
✨Final verdict? If you love a fast-paced, steamy romance with a swoon-worthy single dad, a resilient curvy heroine, and top-tier narration, you need this audiobook in your life.
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝟰⭐️ | 𝗦𝗽𝗶����𝗲: 𝟯🌶️ | 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:𝟱🎧
✨ 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚘 LIBRO AUDIO 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚐𝚒𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝙰𝙻𝙲, 𝙸'𝚖 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚟𝚘𝚕𝚞𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚕𝚢 ✨
April 14, 2025
Kristen Proby has gained a new fan! This is my first book of hers and surely won’t be my last. From the small-town setting to the unforgettable characters, this entire story was so well-crafted and unique. The chemistry between our characters was 5-alarm fire level HOT! No shocker there since our MMC is a firefighter and single dad… 🥵🥵🥵
Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster with this childhood friends-to-lovers story! From the very beginning, this book will tug at your heartstrings.
The way that Bridger is completely smitten with Dani and wants to take care of her is nothing short of swoony. His deep awareness of Dani's painful past and his empathetic nature allow him to connect with her profoundly, recognizing and understanding how she needs to be loved.
When Dani returns to her hometown to work as a kindergarten teacher for Bridger's daughter Birdie's class, and moves in across the street, the stage is set for the perfect second-chance romance. It’s not long before sparks fly, and we’re swept away in the passionate and whirlwind relationship these two build, despite their time apart.
"𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘥𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥. 𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦."
Watching Dani heal through her trauma and learn to trust in Bridger, while also building an unbreakable bond with Birdie is beautiful to witness! Her resilience and strength are breathtaking.
❤️🔥 Single dad
👨🚒 Fire chief x teacher
❤️🔥 Friends-to-lovers
👨🚒 Small town
❤️🔥 Past trauma / PTSD
👨🚒 Romantic suspense
❤️🔥 Brother’s best friend
👨🚒 Age gap
❤️🔥 Plus-size FMC
👨🚒 He calls her “Kitten”
❤️🔥 First in series
👨🚒 The spice is 🔥🔥🔥!!
I cannot wait for the next book in the Blackwells of Montana series!
Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster with this childhood friends-to-lovers story! From the very beginning, this book will tug at your heartstrings.
The way that Bridger is completely smitten with Dani and wants to take care of her is nothing short of swoony. His deep awareness of Dani's painful past and his empathetic nature allow him to connect with her profoundly, recognizing and understanding how she needs to be loved.
When Dani returns to her hometown to work as a kindergarten teacher for Bridger's daughter Birdie's class, and moves in across the street, the stage is set for the perfect second-chance romance. It’s not long before sparks fly, and we’re swept away in the passionate and whirlwind relationship these two build, despite their time apart.
"𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘥𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥. 𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦."
Watching Dani heal through her trauma and learn to trust in Bridger, while also building an unbreakable bond with Birdie is beautiful to witness! Her resilience and strength are breathtaking.
❤️🔥 Single dad
👨🚒 Fire chief x teacher
❤️🔥 Friends-to-lovers
👨🚒 Small town
❤️🔥 Past trauma / PTSD
👨🚒 Romantic suspense
❤️🔥 Brother’s best friend
👨🚒 Age gap
❤️🔥 Plus-size FMC
👨🚒 He calls her “Kitten”
❤️🔥 First in series
👨🚒 The spice is 🔥🔥🔥!!
I cannot wait for the next book in the Blackwells of Montana series!
dnf
February 26, 2025I don’t think author isn’t for me. The book is 405 pages but the MMC admits he wants to kiss her on like page 30 and on a date before page 100? On top of that, something just didn’t vibe right for me with this book.
DNFed on 02/26/2025 on page 106
DNFed on 02/26/2025 on page 106
July 9, 2025
-𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘰𝘸𝘯
-𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘥
-𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴
-𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘳
-𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘵
-𝘴𝘶𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦
Literally kicking myself for waiting to start this one. I listened to the audio and absolutely DEVOURED it. This was such a sweet and heartfelt story. The chemistry/connection between Bridger and Dani was so undeniable. I thought it was super sweet how much Bridger just wanted to be near Dani; he was her safe space, but I feel she was definitely his too. And his mouth *ooof* I was not expecting that! And of course Birdie and Pickles were the cutest! Overall I just really enjoyed this one and I already cannot wait to dive in to book two immediately especially with book three coming July 17th!!
-𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘥
-𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴
-𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘳
-𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘵
-𝘴𝘶𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦
Literally kicking myself for waiting to start this one. I listened to the audio and absolutely DEVOURED it. This was such a sweet and heartfelt story. The chemistry/connection between Bridger and Dani was so undeniable. I thought it was super sweet how much Bridger just wanted to be near Dani; he was her safe space, but I feel she was definitely his too. And his mouth *ooof* I was not expecting that! And of course Birdie and Pickles were the cutest! Overall I just really enjoyed this one and I already cannot wait to dive in to book two immediately especially with book three coming July 17th!!
February 24, 2025
4.5/5⭐️
I ate this book up. I was a perfectly paced, medium burn single-dad, brother's best friend, fireman romance. I mean, the tropes....need I really say more? From the moment Dani returned to town after college, Bridger knew she had to be his. Long time crushes finally colliding is always one of my faves. Throw in a sweet little girl and a dad who worships her and his woman, cue the mega swoon. This book had me laughing and catching feelings right along with Dani and Bridger. Their chemistry was so magnetic, and he was so gentle with her after her trauma. I especially loved when he went all possessive alpha caveman on her. Hawt. Anyway, it was a quick, fun read that had me smiling as much as the Wild brothers did. I can't wait for more of this series.
The dual audiobook performance by Sean Masters and Erin Mallon was so good, I literally couldn't stop listening. It was a "one sitting" read!
I ate this book up. I was a perfectly paced, medium burn single-dad, brother's best friend, fireman romance. I mean, the tropes....need I really say more? From the moment Dani returned to town after college, Bridger knew she had to be his. Long time crushes finally colliding is always one of my faves. Throw in a sweet little girl and a dad who worships her and his woman, cue the mega swoon. This book had me laughing and catching feelings right along with Dani and Bridger. Their chemistry was so magnetic, and he was so gentle with her after her trauma. I especially loved when he went all possessive alpha caveman on her. Hawt. Anyway, it was a quick, fun read that had me smiling as much as the Wild brothers did. I can't wait for more of this series.
The dual audiobook performance by Sean Masters and Erin Mallon was so good, I literally couldn't stop listening. It was a "one sitting" read!
September 5, 2025
This was probably a 2.5/2.75 but I simply could not round up to a 3. This felt a little like a wattpad read at times, like the writing was just not there and was also very cringey at times. I’m surprised at how high of a rating this book has.
March 4, 2025
DNF - 28%.
Very-Very insta-lust. Like Very. They have already hooked up with each other by 26%, without any tension or sexual chemistry. I really didn’t get any feels from him calling her a good girl. This man had a one-track mind and that was hooking up with her so he did.
Very-Very insta-lust. Like Very. They have already hooked up with each other by 26%, without any tension or sexual chemistry. I really didn’t get any feels from him calling her a good girl. This man had a one-track mind and that was hooking up with her so he did.
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