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The Blackwells of Montana #5
Where You Belong
From New York Times bestselling author Kristen Proby comes the final installment of the Blackwells of Montana series, Where You Belong, a small-town, second-chance romance set in Bitterroot Valley!
Brooks
Fifteen years ago, I’d planned a romantic proposal, but that was the day Juliet walked out of my life and never looked back. I never wanted to see her again and decided that love wasn’t for me. But now, Juliet has returned to Bitterroot Valley and opened a restaurant. Catching glimpses of her around town makes my heart ache. I want to hate her. I wish she’d do what she does best and go away.
Instead, I find myself wanting to be near her. Helping her. Touching her perfect skin. I don’t want to love her. I don’t want to need her.
Juliet
Coming home to Bitterroot Valley might have been a mistake. Just because I grew up here doesn’t mean I belong here. Honestly, I’ve never felt like I belong anywhere. But once I was finally free from the man who lied and controlled me, I knew I needed to be in Montana. My new restaurant, Sage & Citrus, is a big hit, and I’m making friends. But more importantly, Brooks is here.
I know he doesn’t want me, but having him nearby is a balm to my jagged heart. The more I see him, the more I’m reminded that Brooks Blackwell is my soulmate. But has too much time passed? Or will we finally get our happily ever after?
Brooks
Fifteen years ago, I’d planned a romantic proposal, but that was the day Juliet walked out of my life and never looked back. I never wanted to see her again and decided that love wasn’t for me. But now, Juliet has returned to Bitterroot Valley and opened a restaurant. Catching glimpses of her around town makes my heart ache. I want to hate her. I wish she’d do what she does best and go away.
Instead, I find myself wanting to be near her. Helping her. Touching her perfect skin. I don’t want to love her. I don’t want to need her.
Juliet
Coming home to Bitterroot Valley might have been a mistake. Just because I grew up here doesn’t mean I belong here. Honestly, I’ve never felt like I belong anywhere. But once I was finally free from the man who lied and controlled me, I knew I needed to be in Montana. My new restaurant, Sage & Citrus, is a big hit, and I’m making friends. But more importantly, Brooks is here.
I know he doesn’t want me, but having him nearby is a balm to my jagged heart. The more I see him, the more I’m reminded that Brooks Blackwell is my soulmate. But has too much time passed? Or will we finally get our happily ever after?
422 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 11, 2025
795 people are currently reading
2172 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Proby
139 books16.4k 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 475 reviews
December 9, 2025
This is another culmination of a wonderful series from Kristen Proby. She builds such great families that you feel like you know everyone so well and there's just those last few pieces that need to slide into place.
Juliet and Brooks were those to pieces that had been separated for far too long and needed to be dusted off and forced back together again. High School loves who let life get between them but fate brought Juliet back to the same small town. Now they are both small business owners (Brooks a mechanic and Juliet is a chef) and the town isn't big enough for them not to run into one another.
Plus, they are just meant to be and seeing them continue to crash into one another was so great. Their chemistry just lights them up every time. First as anger but then as desire and more. Brooks can pretend to hate her all he wants but he really just needs to face the facts. Jules is his one true love. Juliet married a man that she never should have, through manipulation and naivete, but now she's free and it's time to give love a real try.
We also have all of the Blackwells rooting for them and who can fight against that crew! What we're left with is a heartwarming, sexy, and a little bit angsty romance. I highly enjoyed it and devoured the audio all in one sitting.
This was narrated in a dual format by Sebastian York and Samantha Brentmoor. It's been too long since I've heard Mr. York perform and it was such a pleasure. Their performance together really brought out the angst and history of their longing so well.
5 Stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: Gas-lighting partner (not MC), death of a spouse, stalking & harassment, accidental injury
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the Author for an ALC of this title.*
Juliet and Brooks were those to pieces that had been separated for far too long and needed to be dusted off and forced back together again. High School loves who let life get between them but fate brought Juliet back to the same small town. Now they are both small business owners (Brooks a mechanic and Juliet is a chef) and the town isn't big enough for them not to run into one another.
Plus, they are just meant to be and seeing them continue to crash into one another was so great. Their chemistry just lights them up every time. First as anger but then as desire and more. Brooks can pretend to hate her all he wants but he really just needs to face the facts. Jules is his one true love. Juliet married a man that she never should have, through manipulation and naivete, but now she's free and it's time to give love a real try.
We also have all of the Blackwells rooting for them and who can fight against that crew! What we're left with is a heartwarming, sexy, and a little bit angsty romance. I highly enjoyed it and devoured the audio all in one sitting.
This was narrated in a dual format by Sebastian York and Samantha Brentmoor. It's been too long since I've heard Mr. York perform and it was such a pleasure. Their performance together really brought out the angst and history of their longing so well.
5 Stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: Gas-lighting partner (not MC), death of a spouse, stalking & harassment, accidental injury
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the Author for an ALC of this title.*
December 12, 2025
#Review: *Where You Belong* - Kristen Proby - ARC/ALC [18+]
4.5/5✨
3.5/5🌶️
Brooks and Juliet had a lovely romance story when they were young, but a couple of events and one certain person destroyed everything they had. Why? Because Juliet had a soft spot and that certain person took advantage of that fact and convinced her to pack her bags and permanently move to Seattle.
Many years have passed since Brooks and Juliet have seen each other, but inside their hearts were the same strong feelings for one another. Would they be able to overcome those unfortunate events from the past or have already they lost their chance?
This story was super emotional and I liked that second chance romance. Brooks was so hurt by everything Juliet has done to him and how she just left him behind. I liked how much he tried to stay away from her and to still be upset on her, but that tension between them kept on building and it was pretty impossible to be indifferent to it. And it was incredible when exploded! It was raw, full of pent up feelings and hurt. The secrets which were about to be unfolded were pretty cruel and I was angry about everything that happened. It was pure evil!
Kristen has done it again, writing such a heart-warming story, which will definitely take you through a roller-coaster of feelings. I felt so many emotions while reading this one, but I mostly felt sorry for the main characters and angry about what happened there and how they lost so many years apart because of it.
Thank you so much Kristen and team for accepting me for both ARC and ALC! Samantha Brentmoor and Sebastian York have done an incredible job in getting be immersed into this story, being so easily captivated by the emotions they emanated. An excellent experience, which has for sure made me feel everything at a next level.
✨Tropes
#SecondChanceRomance
#SoulMates
#FirstLove
#ReunitedLovers
#ReturningToHometown
#ItWasAlwaysYou
#HateToLoveYou
#SmallTown
4.5/5✨
3.5/5🌶️
Brooks and Juliet had a lovely romance story when they were young, but a couple of events and one certain person destroyed everything they had. Why? Because Juliet had a soft spot and that certain person took advantage of that fact and convinced her to pack her bags and permanently move to Seattle.
Many years have passed since Brooks and Juliet have seen each other, but inside their hearts were the same strong feelings for one another. Would they be able to overcome those unfortunate events from the past or have already they lost their chance?
This story was super emotional and I liked that second chance romance. Brooks was so hurt by everything Juliet has done to him and how she just left him behind. I liked how much he tried to stay away from her and to still be upset on her, but that tension between them kept on building and it was pretty impossible to be indifferent to it. And it was incredible when exploded! It was raw, full of pent up feelings and hurt. The secrets which were about to be unfolded were pretty cruel and I was angry about everything that happened. It was pure evil!
Kristen has done it again, writing such a heart-warming story, which will definitely take you through a roller-coaster of feelings. I felt so many emotions while reading this one, but I mostly felt sorry for the main characters and angry about what happened there and how they lost so many years apart because of it.
Thank you so much Kristen and team for accepting me for both ARC and ALC! Samantha Brentmoor and Sebastian York have done an incredible job in getting be immersed into this story, being so easily captivated by the emotions they emanated. An excellent experience, which has for sure made me feel everything at a next level.
✨Tropes
#SecondChanceRomance
#SoulMates
#FirstLove
#ReunitedLovers
#ReturningToHometown
#ItWasAlwaysYou
#HateToLoveYou
#SmallTown
December 12, 2025
I’d rate this 2-3 ⭐️. I thought the whole reason for their breakup and 15 year separation was goofy (possible spoilers ahead)
H and h have been in a relationship since they were 15. The book starts where they are 19, and H plans to propose. He also bought them a house. h is in her final year of college. h has this guy friend at college (can’t remember his name. I’ll call him OM) Every time h is spending time with H, OM always says he’s going to commit suicide.
H arrives to pick h up for the surprise party/proposal. h tells H she has to go back to college because OM is threatening to kill himself and she’s the only one who can save him. H is like NO! “This guy is manipulating you” ( h was the one who found her dad after he committed suicide and OM knew this )
H also says “if you walk out that door, we are done” (this OM has been an ongoing problem for these MCs for about a year)
Naturally, she goes back to college to “save him”
Now, it’s 15 years later. H is a mechanic. h just moved back to town and opened a “clean” bakery. H is an absolute a-hole to h. His POV about her was gross too. He has been with others during the 15 years (was considered a playboy)
I will say that most of this book is wrapped up by 40%. Yes, by 40% they have forgiven each other and are now in a committed relationship.
The MCs even have a quick courthouse wedding.
So…h’s backstory for the 15 years- 5 years after H and h broke up, OM told her he had terminal cancer and he was dying. He wanted to marry her for the time he had left. She married him. For 10 years, she lived in an emotionally abusive marriage with him. He was lying about the cancer. He was a billionaire and supposedly, they slept in separate bedrooms.
Ummm, but then there is a part where she mentions she has ONLY been with H and OM so definitely sounds like she had smex with OM. She also called him a micropenis 🤷♀️ OM had 50 mistresses 🙃🙃😬 He liked to play pranks on her (which caused her to have issues) and he cut her off from everybody.
Then one night they were in a car accident and OM died (well, h had his life support removed and all his organs donated) and there’s a very weird part about some of the money was left to his mistress- who h now had to deal with monthly to give her money. Frankly, it was not a good/believable plot.
——————-
40% is when this book ended. The next 60% is all the old characters from previous books blending in with the new characters for the new series. Supposedly, all these people h knows really well and they all love her
Ummm….except NONE of these people had anything to do with h until H forgave her.
This book spends A LOT of time name dropping other author’s and their books. It also spends way too much time talking about food. Like….every scene always talks about whatever food they’re eating and cooking.
There is plenty of spice in this book. These two MCs have smex a lot. Each scene felt like a copy/paste of each other. 🤷♀️
I won’t say the book is bad, because it’s not. There’s just enough to keep you invested just to see where it goes. Most of the side characters are likable even though it just seems too perfect at times.
H and h have been in a relationship since they were 15. The book starts where they are 19, and H plans to propose. He also bought them a house. h is in her final year of college. h has this guy friend at college (can’t remember his name. I’ll call him OM) Every time h is spending time with H, OM always says he’s going to commit suicide.
H arrives to pick h up for the surprise party/proposal. h tells H she has to go back to college because OM is threatening to kill himself and she’s the only one who can save him. H is like NO! “This guy is manipulating you” ( h was the one who found her dad after he committed suicide and OM knew this )
H also says “if you walk out that door, we are done” (this OM has been an ongoing problem for these MCs for about a year)
Naturally, she goes back to college to “save him”
Now, it’s 15 years later. H is a mechanic. h just moved back to town and opened a “clean” bakery. H is an absolute a-hole to h. His POV about her was gross too. He has been with others during the 15 years (was considered a playboy)
I will say that most of this book is wrapped up by 40%. Yes, by 40% they have forgiven each other and are now in a committed relationship.
The MCs even have a quick courthouse wedding.
So…h’s backstory for the 15 years- 5 years after H and h broke up, OM told her he had terminal cancer and he was dying. He wanted to marry her for the time he had left. She married him. For 10 years, she lived in an emotionally abusive marriage with him. He was lying about the cancer. He was a billionaire and supposedly, they slept in separate bedrooms.
Ummm, but then there is a part where she mentions she has ONLY been with H and OM so definitely sounds like she had smex with OM. She also called him a micropenis 🤷♀️ OM had 50 mistresses 🙃🙃😬 He liked to play pranks on her (which caused her to have issues) and he cut her off from everybody.
Then one night they were in a car accident and OM died (well, h had his life support removed and all his organs donated) and there’s a very weird part about some of the money was left to his mistress- who h now had to deal with monthly to give her money. Frankly, it was not a good/believable plot.
——————-
40% is when this book ended. The next 60% is all the old characters from previous books blending in with the new characters for the new series. Supposedly, all these people h knows really well and they all love her
Ummm….except NONE of these people had anything to do with h until H forgave her.
This book spends A LOT of time name dropping other author’s and their books. It also spends way too much time talking about food. Like….every scene always talks about whatever food they’re eating and cooking.
There is plenty of spice in this book. These two MCs have smex a lot. Each scene felt like a copy/paste of each other. 🤷♀️
I won’t say the book is bad, because it’s not. There’s just enough to keep you invested just to see where it goes. Most of the side characters are likable even though it just seems too perfect at times.
November 30, 2025
infinity stars
the end of my Blackwells of Montana loving era. book 5 of this amazing series. the book we have all been wanting but not at the same time because we don't want this series to end.
Brooks and Jules story is finally here for all of our grabby hands! After 15 years Jules returns home and the couple has no choice but to open up the wounds that hurt the most. At first Brooks wants nothing to do with her. He won't give her the time of day.. but, like always, he can't get her out of his head.
I can not say what I loved most about this book. maybe it was how real of a second chance it was? these characters (Brooks and Jules) were extremely hurt. We have been wondering what happened for 4 previous books and the way the author gave us the answers is what second chance dreams are made of. maybe it was how the FMC's hardest part of being back in her home town was facing her past but she did it anyways. maybe it was how much they still loved each other even after all years and everything that had happened.
I can't really pin point the exact thing I loved the most but I can just tell you I loved this whole book, with my whole chest & if you waste your time following this page you should care what I have to say about it. hehehe
the end of my Blackwells of Montana loving era. book 5 of this amazing series. the book we have all been wanting but not at the same time because we don't want this series to end.
Brooks and Jules story is finally here for all of our grabby hands! After 15 years Jules returns home and the couple has no choice but to open up the wounds that hurt the most. At first Brooks wants nothing to do with her. He won't give her the time of day.. but, like always, he can't get her out of his head.
I can not say what I loved most about this book. maybe it was how real of a second chance it was? these characters (Brooks and Jules) were extremely hurt. We have been wondering what happened for 4 previous books and the way the author gave us the answers is what second chance dreams are made of. maybe it was how the FMC's hardest part of being back in her home town was facing her past but she did it anyways. maybe it was how much they still loved each other even after all years and everything that had happened.
I can't really pin point the exact thing I loved the most but I can just tell you I loved this whole book, with my whole chest & if you waste your time following this page you should care what I have to say about it. hehehe
December 13, 2025
I really thought the reason for their separation was so strange. I got the going back to check on her friend and he freaked out, they broke up. Makes sorta sense, for being so young, and a little immature/jealous. But I don’t get how she went from Justin’s friend to his wife!? She said they were always just friends, so why even if she thought he had cancer and he was manipulating her would she marry him and sleep with him; when she never wanted him? The whole thing made no sense to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2025
4.5⭐️ | 3🌶
I cannot believe my time in Bitterroot Valley is over. I'm so emotional over this world and series ending. Brooks and Jules were the perfect way to say goodbye. Everything about this book, its characters, this world, I'm done for. Forever changed. I loved everything about this book. I hope Ava and her brothers get their stories one day but I'm excited for Triple Creek Ranch. For now, brb gonna go try not to cry at my time in Bitterroot Valley being over. Thank you to kristen for the arc.
I cannot believe my time in Bitterroot Valley is over. I'm so emotional over this world and series ending. Brooks and Jules were the perfect way to say goodbye. Everything about this book, its characters, this world, I'm done for. Forever changed. I loved everything about this book. I hope Ava and her brothers get their stories one day but I'm excited for Triple Creek Ranch. For now, brb gonna go try not to cry at my time in Bitterroot Valley being over. Thank you to kristen for the arc.
December 12, 2025
You know it's gonna be good when the first chapter has you crying tears of romantic frustration and sadness! What a second chance masterpiece! Where You Belong brings the Blackwells of Montana series to a heartfelt close with Brooks and Juliet’s long-awaited second chance love story. With beautifully handled tension, memorable characters, tenderly conveyed emotion, and a fantastic audio narration, Where You Belong is a warm, sexy, and powerfully emotional finale. I smiled, I swooned, and I said a bittersweet goodbye to this family and world I adore.
Once inseparable in high school and deeply in love, they fell apart after Brooks issued an ultimatum that shattered what they had. An ultimatum he had to deliver, but Juliet couldn't yet see and understand. Years later, the consequences of their choices still weigh on them heavily, impacting the others in ways the others don't yet know. But when Juliet returns to Bitterroot Valley fifteen years later, both are forced to face the choices that changed their lives, but never their hearts. At first bitter and hesitant, the close proximity brings some hard truths and heartache to life. Can they rebuild after they've hurt each other so much?
The story blends small-town charm with raw emotion, heat, and tenderness. The push-pull between Brooks and Juliet sparks the moment they cross paths again, shifting from anger to desire to something deeper that reignites in them again. Their pain feels authentic, and the journey toward healing gives the romance a powerful emotional core that touched my heart. Brooks’s devotion, even when he is hurting, had me SWOONING, while Juliet’s willingness to confront her past and her quiet and resilient strength makes her so easy to root for.
And of course we have the amazing Blackwells around- and they are the real MVPS in pushing these two together again. The warmth they bring, the humor, and that amazing familial love that both of these two need to help them heal and find emotional safety with each other again. The family helps soften the heavier moments and of course adds some of the funny ones too.
I have LOVED every audio in this series, but this may be my favorite. Sebastian York and Samantha Brentmoor bring both characters to life with rich emotion and so much nuance. Their dual performance captures every ounce of longing, frustration, and affection. I felt the heart and soul in every world. Fantastic performances.
This series is everything I want in a small-town romance: charming setting, chemistry that grips you, and the most endearing characters. Watching Brooks and Juliet navigate old hurts, rediscover their connection, and finally choose each other again is such a satisfying finale!
🏡Second Chance
🏡 Small Town
🏡 Hate to Love
🏡Traumatized Heroine
🏡 It's Always Been You
🏡 Possessive MMC
🏡 Found Family
🏡Smutty book club
🏡Dual audio
Once inseparable in high school and deeply in love, they fell apart after Brooks issued an ultimatum that shattered what they had. An ultimatum he had to deliver, but Juliet couldn't yet see and understand. Years later, the consequences of their choices still weigh on them heavily, impacting the others in ways the others don't yet know. But when Juliet returns to Bitterroot Valley fifteen years later, both are forced to face the choices that changed their lives, but never their hearts. At first bitter and hesitant, the close proximity brings some hard truths and heartache to life. Can they rebuild after they've hurt each other so much?
The story blends small-town charm with raw emotion, heat, and tenderness. The push-pull between Brooks and Juliet sparks the moment they cross paths again, shifting from anger to desire to something deeper that reignites in them again. Their pain feels authentic, and the journey toward healing gives the romance a powerful emotional core that touched my heart. Brooks’s devotion, even when he is hurting, had me SWOONING, while Juliet’s willingness to confront her past and her quiet and resilient strength makes her so easy to root for.
And of course we have the amazing Blackwells around- and they are the real MVPS in pushing these two together again. The warmth they bring, the humor, and that amazing familial love that both of these two need to help them heal and find emotional safety with each other again. The family helps soften the heavier moments and of course adds some of the funny ones too.
I have LOVED every audio in this series, but this may be my favorite. Sebastian York and Samantha Brentmoor bring both characters to life with rich emotion and so much nuance. Their dual performance captures every ounce of longing, frustration, and affection. I felt the heart and soul in every world. Fantastic performances.
This series is everything I want in a small-town romance: charming setting, chemistry that grips you, and the most endearing characters. Watching Brooks and Juliet navigate old hurts, rediscover their connection, and finally choose each other again is such a satisfying finale!
🏡Second Chance
🏡 Small Town
🏡 Hate to Love
🏡Traumatized Heroine
🏡 It's Always Been You
🏡 Possessive MMC
🏡 Found Family
🏡Smutty book club
🏡Dual audio
December 5, 2025
Well now I need to binge every book from Kristen Proby.
This was my first book by this author and wow, I’m hooked now. 🤭 This is book 5 in The Blackwells of Montana series, I read it as a standalone. I don’t feel like I missed anything at all and I really loved this book! I already downloaded the rest of the books in this series, I simply need more of the Blackwells.
I. LOVE. BROOKS. 🥹 He is a perfect man and I’m obsessed. I loved watching them go from hate to love, it was perfect.
The audiobook is AMAZING!!! Sebastian York and Samantha Brentmoor did a phenomenal job bringing Brooks and Juliet to life. They could read me a grocery list and I would be sat.
Tropes:
small town romance
second chance
possessive mmc
it’s always been you
hate to love
found family
Thank you Kristen Proby for the arc and alc of this wonderful book 🫶🏼
This was my first book by this author and wow, I’m hooked now. 🤭 This is book 5 in The Blackwells of Montana series, I read it as a standalone. I don’t feel like I missed anything at all and I really loved this book! I already downloaded the rest of the books in this series, I simply need more of the Blackwells.
I. LOVE. BROOKS. 🥹 He is a perfect man and I’m obsessed. I loved watching them go from hate to love, it was perfect.
The audiobook is AMAZING!!! Sebastian York and Samantha Brentmoor did a phenomenal job bringing Brooks and Juliet to life. They could read me a grocery list and I would be sat.
Tropes:
small town romance
second chance
possessive mmc
it’s always been you
hate to love
found family
Thank you Kristen Proby for the arc and alc of this wonderful book 🫶🏼
January 8, 2026
4.5 stars. I’m sad to see another Kristen series end but I know it’s not goodbye forever. Brooks and Jules story was everything I had hoped for and then some! The build up over 5 books really had a good payoff. Even if a few things felt a little rushed, I still enjoyed it! And I love how we get the lead up to our next series! Counting down til it’s out!
December 16, 2025
love it. perfection. incredible.
only bad thing - its the last book in the series 😭
I will forever want to live in Montana with the Blakewell family 🖤
only bad thing - its the last book in the series 😭
I will forever want to live in Montana with the Blakewell family 🖤
December 1, 2025
I've absolutely loved these Blackwell brothers but Brooks just swept on in and worked his way to the top. We've gotten little snippets of Brooks and Juliet throughout the series and we finally got their story. Second chance is one of my absolute favorites so I absolutely ate this one up!
Juliet and Brooks were apart for 15 long years and now she's back in town. He tries to avoid her because his heart is broken and he's still angry. But after a while, he can't stay away. He has this undeniable urge to protect and love her. When they were together, they were finally home. They had some trauma and pain to work through but their relationship was not going to slip through their fingers a second time. The chemistry was strong and the spice was hot! I absolutely loved them together!!!
“A man’s job is to calm storms, not create them.” SWOON.
I hate this series is over but I absolutely loved every minute of it.
🎧Audio:🎧
This is a dual narration by Sebastian York & Samantha Brentmoor. These two absolutely killed this audio in all the best ways. I was absolutely HOOKED. Sebastian as the grumpy, protective Brooks literally couldn't have been more perfect. Samantha brought all of Juliet's emotions to life flawlessly. I loved the audio so much!!!
Thank you so much to Kristen Proby for this ARC/ALC.
Juliet and Brooks were apart for 15 long years and now she's back in town. He tries to avoid her because his heart is broken and he's still angry. But after a while, he can't stay away. He has this undeniable urge to protect and love her. When they were together, they were finally home. They had some trauma and pain to work through but their relationship was not going to slip through their fingers a second time. The chemistry was strong and the spice was hot! I absolutely loved them together!!!
“A man’s job is to calm storms, not create them.” SWOON.
I hate this series is over but I absolutely loved every minute of it.
🎧Audio:🎧
This is a dual narration by Sebastian York & Samantha Brentmoor. These two absolutely killed this audio in all the best ways. I was absolutely HOOKED. Sebastian as the grumpy, protective Brooks literally couldn't have been more perfect. Samantha brought all of Juliet's emotions to life flawlessly. I loved the audio so much!!!
Thank you so much to Kristen Proby for this ARC/ALC.
January 11, 2026
3.25 stars First Love • Hate to Love • Found Family
Where You Belong is a childhood-friends-to-first-love, second-chance romance built up across the previous four books in the series. Brooks and Juliet’s breakup wasn’t caused by a simple misunderstanding, but by outside influence and an ultimatum that ended their relationship. Over a decade later, Juliet returns to her hometown to start over, reopening old feelings and memories.
I enjoyed watching Juliet rebuild her life and start her business, and Brooks’ initial resentment toward her felt believable — more about protecting himself than being cruel. His POV worked well, and while he was a solid MMC, he didn’t leave a strong, lasting impression on me.
Where the story fell short was in how Juliet’s past was revealed. As she retells her story, it’s clear she was manipulated by the men in her life, mainly her husband. While this makes sense given her history, I personally prefer a stronger FMC, and it made her feel too passive for my taste, which weakened the emotional payoff. The final third also includes plot elements that felt more like filler than meaningful development. Additionally, the story hints at an external suspense element that doesn’t fully develop and ends too abruptly, and some of the repeated references to other authors and narrators felt a little unnecessary and pulled my focus.
Overall, the small-town setting and familiar warmth of K. P.’s writing are still present, and I’ll continue reading her work. While the story didn’t fully deliver on the series’ build-up, it remains an enjoyable read.
Where You Belong is a childhood-friends-to-first-love, second-chance romance built up across the previous four books in the series. Brooks and Juliet’s breakup wasn’t caused by a simple misunderstanding, but by outside influence and an ultimatum that ended their relationship. Over a decade later, Juliet returns to her hometown to start over, reopening old feelings and memories.
I enjoyed watching Juliet rebuild her life and start her business, and Brooks’ initial resentment toward her felt believable — more about protecting himself than being cruel. His POV worked well, and while he was a solid MMC, he didn’t leave a strong, lasting impression on me.
Where the story fell short was in how Juliet’s past was revealed. As she retells her story, it’s clear she was manipulated by the men in her life, mainly her husband. While this makes sense given her history, I personally prefer a stronger FMC, and it made her feel too passive for my taste, which weakened the emotional payoff. The final third also includes plot elements that felt more like filler than meaningful development. Additionally, the story hints at an external suspense element that doesn’t fully develop and ends too abruptly, and some of the repeated references to other authors and narrators felt a little unnecessary and pulled my focus.
Overall, the small-town setting and familiar warmth of K. P.’s writing are still present, and I’ll continue reading her work. While the story didn’t fully deliver on the series’ build-up, it remains an enjoyable read.
November 26, 2025
Brooks is very angry at Juliet, which we knew since When You Blush. We just didn't know why until we find out what happened to them 15 years earlier. The way they wanted each other, no matter what happened in the past, was very intense. Brooks needed Juliet. He needed to protect her and for her to obey him during intimate times. Juliet needed him to understand her point of view, especially after everything that happened within the last 15 years was imperative to her. Of course there was a bit of hate as they clashed in the beginning, but they evolved back to their past feelings — a journey that was gorgeously written and steamy. Brooks and Juliet just needed each other. It took me a little bit to sit with this story after it was over, because I wanted to fully wrap my head around what happened in the past and how the characters evolved into 2 lovers who fit perfectly together.
Brooks as a hero has me when he said: “A man’s job is to calm storms, not create them.”
Juliet grew into a strong heroine who loved every part of Brooks. “I always want you. Even when I’m so tired, that I can’t keep my eyes open.”
The found family vibes were part of the DNA of Where We Belong. Everyone loved and supported each other. They showed up for each other. This is one of the big reasons why I love the Blackwells of Montana series. The supporting characters showing up and being there for the main couple and each other. They are family, and Juliet was welcomed before Brooks was able to calm down. The audiobook was perfection. I love Samantha Brendmoor and Sebastian York, and they were able to bring out the emotional impact — the anger, the irritation, the longing, the love, the desperation — that was Juliet and Brooks’ story.
Thank you to Kristen Proby for an ALC copy of Where We Belong. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Brooks as a hero has me when he said: “A man’s job is to calm storms, not create them.”
Juliet grew into a strong heroine who loved every part of Brooks. “I always want you. Even when I’m so tired, that I can’t keep my eyes open.”
The found family vibes were part of the DNA of Where We Belong. Everyone loved and supported each other. They showed up for each other. This is one of the big reasons why I love the Blackwells of Montana series. The supporting characters showing up and being there for the main couple and each other. They are family, and Juliet was welcomed before Brooks was able to calm down. The audiobook was perfection. I love Samantha Brendmoor and Sebastian York, and they were able to bring out the emotional impact — the anger, the irritation, the longing, the love, the desperation — that was Juliet and Brooks’ story.
Thank you to Kristen Proby for an ALC copy of Where We Belong. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 8, 2026
Amazing audiobook! I loved the characters in this lovely small town. The Blackwells all have their family’s and I loved it . Brooks had such a dirty mouth when it came to steamy scenes with Jules . Her past was horrible and to be manipulated by that person and to make her lose so much time with Brooks was so sad. I was so happy they got their second chance even though Brooks wasn’t exactly so nice . The narrators did spectacularly with all the characters is this story. I loved their voices ! All in all this series was amazing !
December 15, 2025
This is not a love to hate book. It just isn't. The "hate" lasts maybe 20% and then they are back together and everything is hunky dory.
I wish we would have had more time of pining, a little more angst, before they got together. Because Brooks and his "wildfire" hooked up quickly and became an item early in the book and then it was just a love fest with fluff and sex. That's literally the book summed up. Not that they were not sexy together, this just did not have a story that carried. It had great bones, but it just felt like a fluff piece. Not a solid story to go on.
I kept reading because I was waiting for this Nadine chick to make themselves known. I was waiting for the shite to hit the fan! But it didn't, because someone else was manipulating her and he killed himself.
Now I have read through this whole book and I am frustrated because of her choices. Justin and this other guy got off Scott FREE and then she decides to DONATE millions of dollars instead of spending it on renovations and such. Because, "supposedly", Justin would be rolling in his grave if you gave the money away like that.
Now this is just my personal opinion, but if someone f***ed my life over and was abusive like that, I would use that money on me and my man's stuff. Why? Because that would be a bigger f**k you. Not only am I living my life but I am using your money to spoil myself and my new husband-- who you hated. Cheers.
That is NOT what happened. Justin died in a car wreck (too easy) and the other guy killed himself. No satisfaction was had, by me. I wanted blood to be spilt or at least a guy getting his nose broken! SOMETHING!
┐(´ー｀)┌
This was the last book in the series and I did not read all of these books. I have to imagine this was the author's light and fluffy farewell to all her characters she loved, and would miss dearly. I do not begrudge her that. I just wish the book had been more than that, for the reader.
I wish we would have had more time of pining, a little more angst, before they got together. Because Brooks and his "wildfire" hooked up quickly and became an item early in the book and then it was just a love fest with fluff and sex. That's literally the book summed up. Not that they were not sexy together, this just did not have a story that carried. It had great bones, but it just felt like a fluff piece. Not a solid story to go on.
I kept reading because I was waiting for this Nadine chick to make themselves known. I was waiting for the shite to hit the fan! But it didn't, because someone else was manipulating her and he killed himself.
Now I have read through this whole book and I am frustrated because of her choices. Justin and this other guy got off Scott FREE and then she decides to DONATE millions of dollars instead of spending it on renovations and such. Because, "supposedly", Justin would be rolling in his grave if you gave the money away like that.
Now this is just my personal opinion, but if someone f***ed my life over and was abusive like that, I would use that money on me and my man's stuff. Why? Because that would be a bigger f**k you. Not only am I living my life but I am using your money to spoil myself and my new husband-- who you hated. Cheers.
That is NOT what happened. Justin died in a car wreck (too easy) and the other guy killed himself. No satisfaction was had, by me. I wanted blood to be spilt or at least a guy getting his nose broken! SOMETHING!
┐(´ー｀)┌
This was the last book in the series and I did not read all of these books. I have to imagine this was the author's light and fluffy farewell to all her characters she loved, and would miss dearly. I do not begrudge her that. I just wish the book had been more than that, for the reader.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2025
This is the final book in The Blackwells Of Montana series. This second chance romance tells the love story of Juliet and Brooks. 15 years ago she walked out on him and broke his heart. She was finishing college and he was about to propose but outside forces pulled them apart. Now she’s back in town and he can’t seem to escape her.
Lots of harbored anger between these two with all the hurt they have kept inside for so many years. There is nothing like the tension of 15 years of yearning though because no matter how hurt they were, they both have never been able to move on.
This was very much a “he saves her” dynamic. After years of trauma with the secrets she’s been hiding, Juliet finds herself in a bunch of difficult situations. Overall this was my favorite Kristen book so far. A little too heavy on the spice for me but I really enjoyed their relationship. The large amount of time apart made the build up for their second chance so much better. The definition of “It’s always been you.” She has a secret tattoo, and he secretly bought her dream home with the plans to build her a home library. They were made for each other and it was one of those books where you don’t have to wait until the very end for the couple to decide they want to work things out and get little interaction with them being together. I enjoyed that aspect as well.
“it’s like every molecule in my body is a magnet and she’s the only thing it seeks.”
𝒮𝓂𝒶𝓁𝓁 𝒯𝑜𝓌𝓃 𝑅𝑜𝓂𝒶𝓃𝒸𝑒
𝒮𝑒𝒸𝑜𝓃𝒹 𝒞𝒽𝒶𝓃𝒸𝑒
𝒞𝑜𝓂𝓅𝓁𝒾𝒸𝒶𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝒫𝒶𝓈𝓉
𝒫𝑜𝓈𝓈𝑒𝓈𝓈𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝑀𝑀𝒞
𝐼𝓉’𝓈 𝒜𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝐵𝑒𝑒𝓃 𝒴𝑜𝓊
𝒮𝓅𝒾𝒸𝓎
Lots of harbored anger between these two with all the hurt they have kept inside for so many years. There is nothing like the tension of 15 years of yearning though because no matter how hurt they were, they both have never been able to move on.
This was very much a “he saves her” dynamic. After years of trauma with the secrets she’s been hiding, Juliet finds herself in a bunch of difficult situations. Overall this was my favorite Kristen book so far. A little too heavy on the spice for me but I really enjoyed their relationship. The large amount of time apart made the build up for their second chance so much better. The definition of “It’s always been you.” She has a secret tattoo, and he secretly bought her dream home with the plans to build her a home library. They were made for each other and it was one of those books where you don’t have to wait until the very end for the couple to decide they want to work things out and get little interaction with them being together. I enjoyed that aspect as well.
“it’s like every molecule in my body is a magnet and she’s the only thing it seeks.”
𝒮𝓂𝒶𝓁𝓁 𝒯𝑜𝓌𝓃 𝑅𝑜𝓂𝒶𝓃𝒸𝑒
𝒮𝑒𝒸𝑜𝓃𝒹 𝒞𝒽𝒶𝓃𝒸𝑒
𝒞𝑜𝓂𝓅𝓁𝒾𝒸𝒶𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝒫𝒶𝓈𝓉
𝒫𝑜𝓈𝓈𝑒𝓈𝓈𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝑀𝑀𝒞
𝐼𝓉’𝓈 𝒜𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝐵𝑒𝑒𝓃 𝒴𝑜𝓊
𝒮𝓅𝒾𝒸𝓎
December 2, 2025
Where You Belong swept me back into the town of Bitterroot Valley, and immediately made me care about Brooks and Juliet. Fifteen years ago, Juliet left town with a broken heart and didn’t come back. Brooks never wanted to see Juliet again, feeling broken and deciding love wasn’t for him. Until Juliet returns to town to open a restaurant. The two must dance a complicated dance of feelings, while trying to figure out if they will be able to ever get their happily ever after.
I loved following Brooks and Juliet navigate their complicated mix of past heartbreak and present attraction. Their chemistry is tangible, sweet, flirty and slow burn. Watching Brooks' walls slowly crumble as he sees Juliet working so hard to rebuild a life, while Juliet faces old regrets and new hope, created such a tender, emotionally grounded second chance romance. Their chemistry isn’t rushed or superficial; it feels real, worn down, and meaningful.
I appreciated how the small town setting and found family vibe of the series gave their romance a warm backdrop. There were friends, community, and shared history that made their journey feel real and meaningful. A few plot threads did seem to wrap up a little bit too fast for me, but the payoff was totally worth it.
If you are looking for an emotional second chance romance, this one would be perfect. I am sad this series is over, but I am looking forward to where we go next. Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
I loved following Brooks and Juliet navigate their complicated mix of past heartbreak and present attraction. Their chemistry is tangible, sweet, flirty and slow burn. Watching Brooks' walls slowly crumble as he sees Juliet working so hard to rebuild a life, while Juliet faces old regrets and new hope, created such a tender, emotionally grounded second chance romance. Their chemistry isn’t rushed or superficial; it feels real, worn down, and meaningful.
I appreciated how the small town setting and found family vibe of the series gave their romance a warm backdrop. There were friends, community, and shared history that made their journey feel real and meaningful. A few plot threads did seem to wrap up a little bit too fast for me, but the payoff was totally worth it.
If you are looking for an emotional second chance romance, this one would be perfect. I am sad this series is over, but I am looking forward to where we go next. Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
December 11, 2025
I’m going to miss this series!🥹
ᗯᕼᗩT TO ᗴ᙭ᑭᗴᑕT:
🩵𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲/𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲
🧡𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘅𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘆
🩵𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂
🧡𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝘄𝗻
🩵𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆
🧡𝗜𝘁 𝗪𝗮𝘀 𝗔𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂
✨𝒯𝒽ℴ𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓉𝓈✨
𝗜 have eagerly awaited the Juliet and Brooks story, and I must say, the wait was worth it! 𝗞𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝘆 once again delivers an emotional second chance romance that hooks you from the start.
𝗜𝗳 you are familiar with 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀, you'll know that Brooks still can’t move on from Juliet. Now, Juliet has returned to town, and their paths keep crossing. There is so much history and hurt between them, stemming from Juliet breaking Brooks' heart fifteen years ago. The wounds run deep, but there is a lingering connection that they can't ignore anymore.
𝗜 was moved by Brooks and Juliet’s love. They had me feeling all emotional and teary-eyed. It was hard to believe they could survive being apart for so long when they’re meant to be together all along. I loved that they were able to finally get their happily ever after. I also adored the found family vibes here. The Blackwells are truly the best.
The dual narration by 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗵𝗮 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗺𝗼𝗼𝗿 and 𝗦𝗲𝗯𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝗿𝗸 truly brought the characters to life, making the story even more engaging for listeners. If you’re a fan of second chances set against charming small towns, "Where You Belong" is the perfect book for you!
A big thank you to 𝗞𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝘆 and her team for these advanced reading and listening copies. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝟰.𝟱⭐️ 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝟱🎧 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 𝟯/𝟱🌶️
ᗯᕼᗩT TO ᗴ᙭ᑭᗴᑕT:
🩵𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲/𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲
🧡𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘅𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘆
🩵𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂
🧡𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝘄𝗻
🩵𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆
🧡𝗜𝘁 𝗪𝗮𝘀 𝗔𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂
✨𝒯𝒽ℴ𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓉𝓈✨
𝗜 have eagerly awaited the Juliet and Brooks story, and I must say, the wait was worth it! 𝗞𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝘆 once again delivers an emotional second chance romance that hooks you from the start.
𝗜𝗳 you are familiar with 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀, you'll know that Brooks still can’t move on from Juliet. Now, Juliet has returned to town, and their paths keep crossing. There is so much history and hurt between them, stemming from Juliet breaking Brooks' heart fifteen years ago. The wounds run deep, but there is a lingering connection that they can't ignore anymore.
𝗜 was moved by Brooks and Juliet’s love. They had me feeling all emotional and teary-eyed. It was hard to believe they could survive being apart for so long when they’re meant to be together all along. I loved that they were able to finally get their happily ever after. I also adored the found family vibes here. The Blackwells are truly the best.
The dual narration by 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗵𝗮 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗺𝗼𝗼𝗿 and 𝗦𝗲𝗯𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝗿𝗸 truly brought the characters to life, making the story even more engaging for listeners. If you’re a fan of second chances set against charming small towns, "Where You Belong" is the perfect book for you!
A big thank you to 𝗞𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝘆 and her team for these advanced reading and listening copies. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝟰.𝟱⭐️ 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝟱🎧 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 𝟯/𝟱🌶️
November 30, 2025
Just wrapped up the last book in The Blackwells of Montana series and whew… my heart is still doing cartwheels. This second-chance romance follows Juliet and Brooks — two people who were absolutely that couple 15 years ago… until life yeeted them in different directions. She walked away, broke his heart, and now she’s back in town looking like his past, present, and future all showed up at once.
Their journey? I was locked in like it was my full-time job. Juliet is strong and independent with just enough softness to make you wanna root for her with your whole chest. And Brooks? HELLO SIR. Peak protective energy. The kind of man who’d burn down Montana and rebuild it just to hand her the keys. These two were made for each other — no notes.
If you’re into small-town feels, decade-spanning second chances, and heroes who love HARD, this finale is a must-listen. I’m genuinely sad to say goodbye to this series, but ohhhh what a send-off.
And the audio?! Samantha Brentmoor and Sebastian York did not come to play. Their dual narration was perfection. Sebastian’s voice? Automatic swoon. Man was destined to be Brooks. Samantha absolutely nailed Juliet’s fire and hearty.
Things to know
1st person pov, dual pov, dual narration, second chance, death of parent (off page), mentions of suicide, suicidal ideation (not mc), manipulation, hate to love, it’s always been you, small town, possessive mc
Their journey? I was locked in like it was my full-time job. Juliet is strong and independent with just enough softness to make you wanna root for her with your whole chest. And Brooks? HELLO SIR. Peak protective energy. The kind of man who’d burn down Montana and rebuild it just to hand her the keys. These two were made for each other — no notes.
If you’re into small-town feels, decade-spanning second chances, and heroes who love HARD, this finale is a must-listen. I’m genuinely sad to say goodbye to this series, but ohhhh what a send-off.
And the audio?! Samantha Brentmoor and Sebastian York did not come to play. Their dual narration was perfection. Sebastian’s voice? Automatic swoon. Man was destined to be Brooks. Samantha absolutely nailed Juliet’s fire and hearty.
Things to know
1st person pov, dual pov, dual narration, second chance, death of parent (off page), mentions of suicide, suicidal ideation (not mc), manipulation, hate to love, it’s always been you, small town, possessive mc
Read
December 2, 2025I was not looking forward in saying goodbye to the Blackwells, but what an end to another amazing series.
Brooks Blackwell, geez this man has stood on the edge of this series, book after book, and to see him step out into the forefront... holy hotness that man had me at every page turn. Heartbroken and definitely angry at the fact his former love has returned to town, she left him 15 years prior, right as he was about to get down on bended knee, chose another man over him. So yeah, Brooks is angry. Angry she's back in his town, angry his family seem to have her back, angry she's becoming a favorite in town, angry she still has a massive hold over him; she still owns his heart!
Juliet's return to Bitterroot Valley has been somewhat bittersweet, sweet that her business has taken off like a rocket, bitter because her only one true love, the man she still holds as the love of her life, hates her. She can't really blame him after the way she left, 15 years and those feelings have not gone away, her love, his hate. If only he knew the truth, what her life has been like, the lies that took her away, the betrayal that kept her away.
Brooks and Juliet's reunion completely owned me, spilling secrets and hard truths, to being right back where they should have been all along. Not separated because of another's twisted idea of love. Their chemistry was delicious to read, Brooks is a man of very many talents, and his mouth sits right at the top of those talents!
The Blackwells always shows up for each other, the love and support through this whole series has been top tier. This whole series sits proudly on my shelves; Kristen thank you for an amazing series and allowing me to read as and ARC reader. Truly thankful!
Brooks Blackwell, geez this man has stood on the edge of this series, book after book, and to see him step out into the forefront... holy hotness that man had me at every page turn. Heartbroken and definitely angry at the fact his former love has returned to town, she left him 15 years prior, right as he was about to get down on bended knee, chose another man over him. So yeah, Brooks is angry. Angry she's back in his town, angry his family seem to have her back, angry she's becoming a favorite in town, angry she still has a massive hold over him; she still owns his heart!
Juliet's return to Bitterroot Valley has been somewhat bittersweet, sweet that her business has taken off like a rocket, bitter because her only one true love, the man she still holds as the love of her life, hates her. She can't really blame him after the way she left, 15 years and those feelings have not gone away, her love, his hate. If only he knew the truth, what her life has been like, the lies that took her away, the betrayal that kept her away.
Brooks and Juliet's reunion completely owned me, spilling secrets and hard truths, to being right back where they should have been all along. Not separated because of another's twisted idea of love. Their chemistry was delicious to read, Brooks is a man of very many talents, and his mouth sits right at the top of those talents!
The Blackwells always shows up for each other, the love and support through this whole series has been top tier. This whole series sits proudly on my shelves; Kristen thank you for an amazing series and allowing me to read as and ARC reader. Truly thankful!
November 28, 2025
**ARC and ALC Review**
I've been waiting for Brooks and Jules' story since they were first introduced. There ws so much tension so I just needed to know how they ended up. Thankfully this book delivered everything I wanted and more!
I was completely invested in their journey from their rocky start to their amazing finish. Jules is strong and independent, but with that little bit of vulnerability that makes her feel so real and relatable. Holy hotness! Brooks is the ultimate protective hero and would burn the world down for Jules. They are 100% made for each other, end of story!
The found family is totally on point, which is classic Kristen Proby! Getting to catch up with all the previous characters was the best bonus!
I listened to the audio while reading, and it was perfect! Samantha Brentmoor and Sebastian York absolutely crushed the dual narration. They narrated Jules and Brooks so well. Sebastian York's deep voice is an automatic swoon fest. He was born to be Brooks! And Samantha Brentmoor perfectly channeled Jules' spirit and emotion.
Whether you read it, listen to it, or do both, you'll be smiling the whole way through and cheering for this couple!
Thank you so much to Kristen Proby for an ARC and ALC of this book. I voluntarily read and listened and gave an honest review.
I've been waiting for Brooks and Jules' story since they were first introduced. There ws so much tension so I just needed to know how they ended up. Thankfully this book delivered everything I wanted and more!
I was completely invested in their journey from their rocky start to their amazing finish. Jules is strong and independent, but with that little bit of vulnerability that makes her feel so real and relatable. Holy hotness! Brooks is the ultimate protective hero and would burn the world down for Jules. They are 100% made for each other, end of story!
The found family is totally on point, which is classic Kristen Proby! Getting to catch up with all the previous characters was the best bonus!
I listened to the audio while reading, and it was perfect! Samantha Brentmoor and Sebastian York absolutely crushed the dual narration. They narrated Jules and Brooks so well. Sebastian York's deep voice is an automatic swoon fest. He was born to be Brooks! And Samantha Brentmoor perfectly channeled Jules' spirit and emotion.
Whether you read it, listen to it, or do both, you'll be smiling the whole way through and cheering for this couple!
Thank you so much to Kristen Proby for an ARC and ALC of this book. I voluntarily read and listened and gave an honest review.
December 13, 2025
"ғɪғᴛᴇᴇɴ ʏᴇᴀʀs ɪs ᴀʟᴍᴏsᴛ ᴀ ʟɪғᴇᴛɪᴍᴇ, ʙᴀʙʏ. ʙᴜᴛ ɪ’ʟʟ ᴛᴇʟʟ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛʜɪs: ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ᴍɪɴᴇ ɴᴏᴡ. ɴᴏ ᴏɴᴇ ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜᴇs ʏᴏᴜ ʙᴜᴛ ᴍᴇ.”
OHMYGOSH the best was saved for last!!! What a way to end such an incredible series... Brooks and Juliet were PERFECTION!! I was so excited to finally get their story, to understand what happened, what caused such a huge riff in their relationship and wow it did not disappoint!
Okay, I can honestly say that starting the book had me cursing Juliet up and down, I was not her biggest fan. My heart hurt for Brooks and understood why this broody man wanted nothing to do with Juliet when she moved back to Bitterroot. Of course, things are not as they always seem and when the truth comes out my heart hurt for both Juliet and Brooks and all they lost because of someone who thought they deserved everything! Oh how I wanted to junk punch him ughh!!
"ɪ’ᴠᴇ ᴀʟʀᴇᴀᴅʏ ᴇɴᴅᴜʀᴇᴅ ᴛʜɪs ʟɪғᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜᴏᴜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ʀᴇғᴜsᴇ ᴛᴏ sᴘᴇɴᴅ ᴀɴᴏᴛʜᴇʀ ᴍɪɴᴜᴛᴇ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ғᴜᴄᴋɪɴɢ ᴘᴜʀɢᴀᴛᴏʀʏ.”
Brooks and Juliet's story was heartwrenching, emotional, sexy and hands down swoon-worthy! The push and pull between these two was frustrating but once they finally gave in to the undeniable chemistry, attraction and love it was explosive and such a beautiful moment. I loved their love story it may have hurt along the way but in the end the healing and honesty these two share only makes them stronger.
“ᴀ ᴍᴀɴ’s ᴊᴏʙ ɪs ᴛᴏ ᴄᴀʟᴍ sᴛᴏʀᴍs, ɴᴏᴛ ᴄʀᴇᴀᴛᴇ ᴛʜᴇᴍ. ᴅᴏ ʏᴏᴜ ʜᴇᴀʀ ᴍᴇ? ɪ’ᴍ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴀʟᴍ ɪɴ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ғᴜᴄᴋɪɴɢ sᴛᴏʀᴍ. ᴍᴇ. ɪғ ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ʜᴀᴠɪɴɢ ᴀ ʙᴀᴅ ᴅᴀʏ, ᴏʀ ᴀ ʙᴀᴅ ᴍɪɴᴜᴛᴇ, ᴏʀ ᴡʜᴀᴛᴇᴠᴇʀ, ʏᴏᴜ ʟᴇᴛ ᴍᴇ ʜᴇʟᴘ ʏᴏᴜ. ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴛʜɪs ɪs ᴜs. ᴛʜɪs ɪs ᴡʜᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛʜɪɴᴋ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ᴡʜᴇɴ ɪᴛ ʀᴀɪɴs, ᴡɪʟᴅғɪʀᴇ.”
My heart may never recover from this incredible story which may just be my fave of the series, I just knew Brooks would steal my heart! I'm so sad to see this series come to an end but it'll definitely hold a special place in my heart because this family was everything!
If you read anything this year READ this book, this series, fall in love with the Blackwells and the loves that bring them to their knees believe me when I say they're worth it!
OHMYGOSH the best was saved for last!!! What a way to end such an incredible series... Brooks and Juliet were PERFECTION!! I was so excited to finally get their story, to understand what happened, what caused such a huge riff in their relationship and wow it did not disappoint!
Okay, I can honestly say that starting the book had me cursing Juliet up and down, I was not her biggest fan. My heart hurt for Brooks and understood why this broody man wanted nothing to do with Juliet when she moved back to Bitterroot. Of course, things are not as they always seem and when the truth comes out my heart hurt for both Juliet and Brooks and all they lost because of someone who thought they deserved everything! Oh how I wanted to junk punch him ughh!!
"ɪ’ᴠᴇ ᴀʟʀᴇᴀᴅʏ ᴇɴᴅᴜʀᴇᴅ ᴛʜɪs ʟɪғᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜᴏᴜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ʀᴇғᴜsᴇ ᴛᴏ sᴘᴇɴᴅ ᴀɴᴏᴛʜᴇʀ ᴍɪɴᴜᴛᴇ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ғᴜᴄᴋɪɴɢ ᴘᴜʀɢᴀᴛᴏʀʏ.”
Brooks and Juliet's story was heartwrenching, emotional, sexy and hands down swoon-worthy! The push and pull between these two was frustrating but once they finally gave in to the undeniable chemistry, attraction and love it was explosive and such a beautiful moment. I loved their love story it may have hurt along the way but in the end the healing and honesty these two share only makes them stronger.
“ᴀ ᴍᴀɴ’s ᴊᴏʙ ɪs ᴛᴏ ᴄᴀʟᴍ sᴛᴏʀᴍs, ɴᴏᴛ ᴄʀᴇᴀᴛᴇ ᴛʜᴇᴍ. ᴅᴏ ʏᴏᴜ ʜᴇᴀʀ ᴍᴇ? ɪ’ᴍ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴀʟᴍ ɪɴ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ғᴜᴄᴋɪɴɢ sᴛᴏʀᴍ. ᴍᴇ. ɪғ ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ʜᴀᴠɪɴɢ ᴀ ʙᴀᴅ ᴅᴀʏ, ᴏʀ ᴀ ʙᴀᴅ ᴍɪɴᴜᴛᴇ, ᴏʀ ᴡʜᴀᴛᴇᴠᴇʀ, ʏᴏᴜ ʟᴇᴛ ᴍᴇ ʜᴇʟᴘ ʏᴏᴜ. ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴛʜɪs ɪs ᴜs. ᴛʜɪs ɪs ᴡʜᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛʜɪɴᴋ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ᴡʜᴇɴ ɪᴛ ʀᴀɪɴs, ᴡɪʟᴅғɪʀᴇ.”
My heart may never recover from this incredible story which may just be my fave of the series, I just knew Brooks would steal my heart! I'm so sad to see this series come to an end but it'll definitely hold a special place in my heart because this family was everything!
If you read anything this year READ this book, this series, fall in love with the Blackwells and the loves that bring them to their knees believe me when I say they're worth it!
December 8, 2025
I am sad to see The Blackwells of Montana end, but what a way to go!!!! Where You Belong is magnificent. This second chance romance is explosive. The anger thet Brooks feels jumps off the pages letting me know that it was going to be one heck of a story.
I didn't think he would ever get himself in check. Talk about love conquers all. His heart won't let him fume forever. When they finally, yes finally, get together it gives new meaning to H.O.T!!!! Jules and Brooks's story is one I will not forget.
Jules has been put through the ringer since she left town all because of a man, and not a good man. My heart bled for her. Her story was heartbreaking. She needs Brooks to show her that not all men a manipulative scumbags. Get ready to swoon. Grab that fan. Brooks does not dissapoint. He helps her carry her baggage, blends her past with her present and creates a beautiful future.
The story is filled with one surprise after another. My nerves were shattered at one point, but not as much as Brooks. The twists are wild. The revelations are shocking. Where You belong has the perfect ending to the series.
I didn't think he would ever get himself in check. Talk about love conquers all. His heart won't let him fume forever. When they finally, yes finally, get together it gives new meaning to H.O.T!!!! Jules and Brooks's story is one I will not forget.
Jules has been put through the ringer since she left town all because of a man, and not a good man. My heart bled for her. Her story was heartbreaking. She needs Brooks to show her that not all men a manipulative scumbags. Get ready to swoon. Grab that fan. Brooks does not dissapoint. He helps her carry her baggage, blends her past with her present and creates a beautiful future.
The story is filled with one surprise after another. My nerves were shattered at one point, but not as much as Brooks. The twists are wild. The revelations are shocking. Where You belong has the perfect ending to the series.
December 5, 2025
ALC Review!
I can’t believe we’re at the end of another AH-MA-ZING series by Kristen. What a ride this has been! We’ve had little glimpses of Brooks and Juliet throughout the previous books, but now we finally get their story, and wow, it was totally worth the wait!
Juliet returns to Bitterroot Valley after 15 years, hoping to start fresh and open a restaurant. She knows she’ll eventually run into Brooks, her first and only love… but after their breakup, Brooks is still angry. And while he claims he hates her, he quickly realises he can’t stay away. Even after all this time, that need to protect her…and love her…never truly went away.
I am now officially a forever fan of second-chance romance because this one was absolutely swoony. Brooks and Juliet were always meant to be together, and there was no way Kristen wasn’t going to make that happen. *Be still my heart.*
And of course, I had to listen to this one on audio. Sebastian York and Samantha Brentmoor are top-tier, auto-listen narrators for me, and they did not disappoint. You just know the audiobook is going to be good when their names are attached, and this one absolutely delivered.
I can’t believe we’re at the end of another AH-MA-ZING series by Kristen. What a ride this has been! We’ve had little glimpses of Brooks and Juliet throughout the previous books, but now we finally get their story, and wow, it was totally worth the wait!
Juliet returns to Bitterroot Valley after 15 years, hoping to start fresh and open a restaurant. She knows she’ll eventually run into Brooks, her first and only love… but after their breakup, Brooks is still angry. And while he claims he hates her, he quickly realises he can’t stay away. Even after all this time, that need to protect her…and love her…never truly went away.
I am now officially a forever fan of second-chance romance because this one was absolutely swoony. Brooks and Juliet were always meant to be together, and there was no way Kristen wasn’t going to make that happen. *Be still my heart.*
And of course, I had to listen to this one on audio. Sebastian York and Samantha Brentmoor are top-tier, auto-listen narrators for me, and they did not disappoint. You just know the audiobook is going to be good when their names are attached, and this one absolutely delivered.
December 11, 2025
Where You Belong is the perfect finale to the Blackwells of Montana series.
It was a beautiful blend of first love, second chances, small-town charm, and undeniable soulmates, wrapping up a story that has quietly been building since book one.
From the moment Brooks and Juliet reappear in each other’s lives, you can feel the weight of their shared past. I’ve had so many questions about them throughout the series, and this book finally gives all the answers—along with all the emotion their story deserved. Their history is full of hurt and heartbreak. The author did a great job telling their story and showing their healing with so much tenderness. The themes of reflection, understanding, forgiveness, and personal growth really shine.
Even after fifteen years apart, Brooks and Juliet’s connection is instant and powerful. Their chemistry is woven with the right balance of banter, longing, and Proby’s signature spice.
It was a wonderful ending to this series, but I’m sad to say goodbye to the Blackwells.
It was a beautiful blend of first love, second chances, small-town charm, and undeniable soulmates, wrapping up a story that has quietly been building since book one.
From the moment Brooks and Juliet reappear in each other’s lives, you can feel the weight of their shared past. I’ve had so many questions about them throughout the series, and this book finally gives all the answers—along with all the emotion their story deserved. Their history is full of hurt and heartbreak. The author did a great job telling their story and showing their healing with so much tenderness. The themes of reflection, understanding, forgiveness, and personal growth really shine.
Even after fifteen years apart, Brooks and Juliet’s connection is instant and powerful. Their chemistry is woven with the right balance of banter, longing, and Proby’s signature spice.
It was a wonderful ending to this series, but I’m sad to say goodbye to the Blackwells.
December 11, 2025
Where You Belong by Kristen Proby
🎧Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor & Sebastian York
📖The Blackwells of Montana, Book 5
📚Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️
📍Adult • Romance
📖355 Pages / 8h 43m
🗓️ December 11
🎧second chance
💛h*te to love
🎧small town
💛it’s always been you
🎧reluctant attraction
💛family saga
🎧close proximity
📖”I love you, wildfire”
Perfect.
Perfect.
Perfect.
There will never be a moment I won’t be completely in love with this book, with Brooks, with Juliet.
{Did I do back to back audiobooks with Sebastian York?! But yes, yes I did. It was amazing! 10/10 recommend}
If you’re looking for emotional payoff, look no forward. We had already experienced the tension between these two in book 4 but I can’t even begin to explain how that tension exploded when they finally had their *reunion* <3 I won’t get into details but MY GOODNESS!
I’m not sure I could ever imagine a goodbye to the Blackwells - I refuse - but somehow this felt like the only way to end this family saga. In a way, it all started with them. In a way, it all ends with them too.
Sage & Citrus is the name of Juliet’s restaurant but could be a whole aesthetic vibe for this book. Throw in that timeless small town charm and it might just be my favorite place in the whole entire world. Literary, at the very least. And you know what I also love? Reluctant attraction in a second chance. There’s something special about not wanting to want that person who held (holds still) your heart before (and now).
Do you believe in soulmates? You will after you read this book.
I don’t have to tell you how amazing Brentmoor is narrating a book. You also know how York is top tier in every book he helps bring to life. Pair these two together and you have a must listen!!! What a banger *clap clap*
🎧Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor & Sebastian York
📖The Blackwells of Montana, Book 5
📚Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️
📍Adult • Romance
📖355 Pages / 8h 43m
🗓️ December 11
🎧second chance
💛h*te to love
🎧small town
💛it’s always been you
🎧reluctant attraction
💛family saga
🎧close proximity
📖”I love you, wildfire”
Perfect.
Perfect.
Perfect.
There will never be a moment I won’t be completely in love with this book, with Brooks, with Juliet.
{Did I do back to back audiobooks with Sebastian York?! But yes, yes I did. It was amazing! 10/10 recommend}
If you’re looking for emotional payoff, look no forward. We had already experienced the tension between these two in book 4 but I can’t even begin to explain how that tension exploded when they finally had their *reunion* <3 I won’t get into details but MY GOODNESS!
I’m not sure I could ever imagine a goodbye to the Blackwells - I refuse - but somehow this felt like the only way to end this family saga. In a way, it all started with them. In a way, it all ends with them too.
Sage & Citrus is the name of Juliet’s restaurant but could be a whole aesthetic vibe for this book. Throw in that timeless small town charm and it might just be my favorite place in the whole entire world. Literary, at the very least. And you know what I also love? Reluctant attraction in a second chance. There’s something special about not wanting to want that person who held (holds still) your heart before (and now).
Do you believe in soulmates? You will after you read this book.
I don’t have to tell you how amazing Brentmoor is narrating a book. You also know how York is top tier in every book he helps bring to life. Pair these two together and you have a must listen!!! What a banger *clap clap*
December 11, 2025
read if you looove…
✨second chance at first love
✨the best found family in the entire world
✨secret tattoos!!
✨HATE to love
✨”it’s always been you”
Brooks and Juliet were absolutely match made in heaven, made for each other perfect together and gosh dang what a beautiful way to say goodbye to Bitterroot Valley, Montana🥹 this small town has quickly become one of my favorite fictional places, and I’m heartbroken to leave but simultaneously foaming at the mouth for wherever @kristenproby takes us next.
these two characters have a lot of history between them, and when the story starts, they absolutely H A T E each other. there’s something extra angsty about a hate-to-love second chance that I can’t get enough of. like, you know the tension is going to break at some point, but mannnnn does it get strong!! Brooks + Juliet both have their flaws, but they also own their mistakes, and it’s so dang hard not to root for these two and their HEA.
thank you @kristenproby for the arc/alc!!!🫶🏼
✨second chance at first love
✨the best found family in the entire world
✨secret tattoos!!
✨HATE to love
✨”it’s always been you”
Brooks and Juliet were absolutely match made in heaven, made for each other perfect together and gosh dang what a beautiful way to say goodbye to Bitterroot Valley, Montana🥹 this small town has quickly become one of my favorite fictional places, and I’m heartbroken to leave but simultaneously foaming at the mouth for wherever @kristenproby takes us next.
these two characters have a lot of history between them, and when the story starts, they absolutely H A T E each other. there’s something extra angsty about a hate-to-love second chance that I can’t get enough of. like, you know the tension is going to break at some point, but mannnnn does it get strong!! Brooks + Juliet both have their flaws, but they also own their mistakes, and it’s so dang hard not to root for these two and their HEA.
thank you @kristenproby for the arc/alc!!!🫶🏼
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