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From New York Times bestselling author Kristen Proby comes Where We Bloom, an
Age Gap, Billionaire, Best Friend’s Brother romance set in Bitterroot Valley!

Connor

After an explosive night together, I thought I’d never see the gorgeous bookstore owner again.
We didn’t exchange names and numbers, and when I left her asleep the following morning, I didn’t intend to pursue her. I don’t have time for relationships nor entanglements.

I’m the CEO of Gallagher Hotels, and my life is spent traveling around the world, focusing on my business, not a small town in Montana. Even if my thoughts keep returning to the most incredible woman I’ve ever met.

It turns out, my mystery woman, Billie, is my sister’s best friend, and she’s suddenly everywhere I turn. She’s become my obsession and all I think about. She’s become the only thing that means more to me than running my empire. And I’m determined to have her.

Billie

Owning a bookstore in my hometown of Bitterroot Valley has been my lifelong dream since I was a little girl. The only thing that brings me more joy is my love of thrift stores and coffee.

And, maybe, the sexy Irishman with intense emerald-colored eyes that take my breath away. His charming accent, how he looks at me, and the way he spoils me with lavish gifts are just the icing on the cake. I’ve tried to stay away from him, but my resolve is slipping. Nothing is better than being in Connor’s arms and feeling like I’m the most important woman in his world. But being with a high-profile billionaire comes with a price. Can we withstand the storm headed our way, or are we destined to fall apart like delicate blooms in the wind?

470 pages, Paperback

First published July 17, 2025

2306 people are currently reading
2269 people want to read

About the author

Kristen Proby

138 books16.3k followers
Kristen 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.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 659 reviews
Profile Image for Jenn (The Book Refuge).
2,661 reviews4,477 followers
July 16, 2025
The way I was SO freaking excited for this couple after the build up from the last book! Billie and Connor were chemistry personified and I knew they were gonna have me blushing.

I liked how we came into the book already knowing about their one night stand. That's not always how this works, so it gave a unique spin. The pull is already in place and once they find out who the other person is in regards to Connor's sister, they decide they need to hands off. But... that only lasts about 2.5 seconds!

I enjoyed how strong willed they both were, but it is for a good reason. They both run businesses, and though they are on completely different scales, it meant that they had more to relate on than just the physical. That always adds another great layer and gives reason for the connection.

Billie was fierce and took absolutely NO sh*t. Not from Connor and not from anyone else. She is at home in her body and still manages to find adorable clothes and be as stylish as the best of them. Her thrifting trips spoke right to my heart.

Connor was broody and doesn't think love is for him, but he can't help but be drawn to his 'Bumble'. She pushes back at him and stands her ground. Yet, he wants to find ways to take care for her and even if that's tough for her, she knows it's important for him. I loved how they came together, pun intended. Because boy! They spiced with the best of 'em!

This was a sweet story and I can't wait for the next one. Possibly a Second Chance?

Narrated in Dual Narration by Connor Crais & Emma Wilder. You may need a tall drink of cold water when listening to Connor Crais' Irish accent. You've been warned. (Also, Connor voices a Connor, and that always makes me giggle just an extra bit.)

5 Stars
3 on the spice scale

*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*
Profile Image for all.the.smut.things.
624 reviews461 followers
July 16, 2025
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
AUDIO REVIEW : 🎧

You honor, I love them. Also, I would like to be Billie Blackwell when I grow up because that girl is a force of nature and I love her. Also I love Connor, the Irish billionaire that falls head over heels in love with her! But it’s Billie that stole this book for me

I have to say this series started with a bang and somehow just keeps getting even better book by book. Not a single skip, I could read about these characters forever.

✨ Billionaire Romance
✨ Small Town
✨ Best Friend’s Brother
✨ Bookstore Owner FMC
✨ He Falls First

This entire book is a lesson on “if he wanted to, he would.”

When Connor and Billie meet and have a one night stand. She doesn’t know he’s her best friend’s older brother, but when Connor figures out who Billie is and that she is the one he wants, this man will stop at nothing to get her and keep her.

And Billie, this woman is a force of nature and every bit the perfect match for Connor, who worships every bit of her fiery personality.

And when I say worship, dear lord, this man knows how to dirty talk with the best of them. I spent this whole book going from swooning to panting.

This book is everything I needed and I could stay in Theo’s world with these characters forever.
Profile Image for Jenni Jay.
345 reviews5 followers
July 20, 2025
Billie was robbed. Billie, sweet, bookstore owning, youngest Blackwell sibling, deserves better than this for her book. She comes across so bitchy, unlikable, and needy. She’s a Blackwell for fuck’s sake. There’s vulnerable and there’s this gross insecure person in Dior.

Connor, is not this asshole. You can be alpha and protective by not being a raging jerk. Who talks to employees like this?

Here’s a few times these two didn’t even feel like they belong together. What did I read? Why aren’t these people nicer?

If I never hear the words Angel and Bumble never again, it will be too soon. In 32 chapters, this man said Angel 145 times, Bumble 70 times, mo rúnsearc 26 times, A ghra 26 times. They lost the special meaning. That’s all I read. And her only term of endearment for him is “billionaire.”

A few minutes later, he walks out of the gas station, and I feel my jaw drop because cradled in his arms have to be at least ten brands of bottled water. “What did you do?” I ask with a laugh as he swaggers over to me, a half smile on his delicious lips. “I bought every brand they have,” he says, standing next to me. “So you can choose the one you like the best.” ——He could have just asked her

“Listen, Bethany, I’m going to need you to stop eye-fucking my man. We have a long flight ahead of us, and I find it incredibly unprofessional that we’ve been on board for roughly six minutes, and you already have him down to his skivvies in your brain. So here’s how it’s going to work. Either you keep it professional or we replace you. What do you think?” ——— How would have Bethany, first day on the job, have known this perpetual bachelor, had a girlfriend? She didn’t have to be a bitch to address this. I thought Billie was nice?

“I asked you not to go anywhere without Simon. Wait, it’s four in the morning there. Why are you taking a drive in the middle of the night?” “Because I’m a grown-ass woman who can decide for herself what time of day she wants to go for a motherfucking drive!” ——— She’s unhinged. For someone who is supposed to be nice and lovable, how does she become unhinged. She’s suffered insomnia for years, no one noticed she becomes a cranky maniac.

“How quickly can we have a baby?” ———- What the actual heck? They have known each other 4 minutes? Why was this book so rushed?

And what was all that with the ex? There was a chapter where Sophia and Ronan talk to Connor about him finding his one. Then the ex decides to go crazy town on Billie. After 15 years, being married and having two kids. That whole scene thrown in there for no reason? Why does everyone all of the sudden feel the need to come at Billie.

And then there’s the consignment shop. The owner just gave her thousands of dollars worth of clothes, many with tags still on them for three hundred dollars!?!?! In exchange for a box of books? Make that make sense. I get that Billie brings some of them back but that’s not even realistic. Hold on though, now she’s going to spend a min of a thousand dollars a month on just dry cleaning? What?

Last quarter of this book was spent skimming right past all the repetitive sex scenes and extra drama to drag out this book.

I love this author’s writing. I look forward to the next book in all her series. This book feels to me as something rushed in between tour appearances. I hope Blake’s story is better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Milica's Bookshelf.
1,092 reviews326 followers
October 10, 2025
I'm obsessed! I literally NEED a man like Connor! The man who will do literally anything for the woman he loves, anything! *sigh*

If you love one-night stand, age-gap, billionaire, he falls first, best friend's brother, fierce bookstore owner FMC, and small town romance, this story is perfect for you, PERFECT!
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Profile Image for Amber (Amber Reads Romance).
1,243 reviews193 followers
July 18, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️

Where We Bloom is the 3rd book in the Blackwells of Montana series. This is actually my first book by Kristen Proby, so I know I was missing the beginning of their relationship since they had a one-night stand in the previous book. I honestly didn’t feel like I was missing too much because this couple’s chemistry was immediately apparent.

Billie and Connor had a one-night stand, but now they have to see each other more often because she is his sister’s best friend. Billie is not willing to just be his hook up and demands more than sex. I loved how feisty she was and how she was such a strong, independent woman. Connor has been 100% focused on his business and didn’t want a relationship, but he can’t deny his feelings for Billie.

Connor was the perfect billionaire book boyfriend. I loved how he cherished Billie and wanted to spoil her. He was so sweet and swoony! The chemistry was fire between them, and they made such a strong couple.

🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
This audiobook was narrated by Connor Crais and Emma Wilder. Connor Crais delivered such a sexy Irish accent. He was super swoony as Connor. Emma did an amazing job as the beautiful curvy heroine.

Thank you to Must Love Audio for providing the ALC.
Profile Image for Marya.
932 reviews16 followers
July 15, 2025
Thank you Valentine PR for providing me a copy of this ebook. All opinions are my own.

So sad to say, this one wasn’t a winner for me. 😭

I’ve been really enjoying this series, and I absolutely LOVED the last one. And the teases for Connor & Billie’s story had me so excited for this one, but, unfortunately, it just wasn’t a winner for me. 😔

First of all, I have some spoilery thoughts, and full disclosure, this bit may have hindered my overall enjoyment, but especially my feelings early on…

So, I was a little thrown by all that, but as I’ve really enjoyed the series up until that point, I read on, hoping things would improve, and I’d end up enjoying it in the end. Unfortunately, I just…didn’t… And I think the reason is that (in my opinion) nothing really happened? Like, they were just living their day to day lives, and…that’s about it? Feelings were discussed, but it was already pretty solidified that they were all-in super early on. And then…just nothing happened?

At about 75%, I did start skimming hoping there’d be some suspense, as was kind of teased, but even that part pretty much fizzled out within a page? 😬

And, I hate to say it, but the spice got very repetitive and just too frequent, especially in the second half…🫣

Ugh, I’m so sad this one didn’t work for me, but it does seem that most people seemed to have enjoyed it, so it very well may be a *me* thing. 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Amanda Bennett.
230 reviews11 followers
July 17, 2025
ARC REVIEW

4.5⭐️
2.5🌶

I swear that Kristen writes the absolute most SWOON-WORTHY men. Connor was perfection and his love for Billie made me melt into a puddle. He SPOILED the crap out of Billie and made her feel like a queen. I need a man like him in my life. 😫

Their chemistry was OFF the freaking charts. They just couldn't keep their hands off each other.

Billie is little miss independent and I love that she always stood up for herself and was so confident in who she is. The fact that she wasn't afraid to tell off any woman who looked at Connor wrong had me cracking up. She didn't take ANY crap and I love her for that!

This was such a heartfelt and lovely read. I wish it had a TAD bit of drama though. It was nearly too perfect that a little bit of action would have been nice 🫣

Overall, I loved them and I am LOVING this series. I can't wait to see what's next.

Tropes:
✨️ Billionaire Romance
✨️ Best Friend's Brother
✨️ Age Gap
✨️ Curvy FMC
✨️ He only sees her
Profile Image for Arianna ✨.
517 reviews21 followers
July 12, 2025
I have been loving the Blackwells of Montana series & I absolutely loved and adored Where We Bloom! Billie is such a headstrong character who knows exactly who she is, what she has to offer, and is unapologetic in life. She quickly became one of my favorite characters of the series. And her plus size representation was done so beautifully! It was the perfect balance of navigating life and relationships as a curvier woman while also not being the most notable thing about her. And the way that Connor worships her is everythinggggg! She never once has to question his love for her. And the reasoning behind his nickname for her had me swooning so hard. And the spice? Yeah, the spice was spicing in this one.

Emma Wilder and Connor Crais did an impeccable job with this audiobook! His Irish accent was well done and had me swooning just about every time he called her Bumble. (although I will say he had me giggling throughout the book every time he called her a nickname in Irish because all I could hear was "maroon shark" lol - this was one of the few times I wish I'd had the ebook because I'm so curious to know what the actual word looks like 🫣). Emma was the perfect choice for Billie and I just loved her performance in the audiobook so much!

Thank you to Must Love Audio for sending me the early audio!
Profile Image for Anca A.
455 reviews33 followers
July 24, 2025
#Review: *Where We Bloom* - Kristen Proby - ARC [18+]
4.2/5✨
3.5/5🌶️

I had to take a chance on this book and sign up for an ARC🥰. Many thanks to Valentine Pr and the author for access me!

Billie Blackwell and Connor Gallagher had a super chemistry even from their first meet, which lead to a steamy one night stand, one that they'll never forget. But what happens when you find out that the man you've spent your night with was your best friend's brother? Well that really complicates things, especially when Connor was far from being someone's boyfriend. But can Billie and Connor reach a common ground in their crazy relationship?

This whole story was based on the super tensioned connection Connor and Billie had. They were super attracted to one another but afraid of what could've happen if they would take a chance at exploring more of what they had there. Because of the close proximity, they spent so much time together and that made Connor become a bit obsessed with Billie, wanting her next to him all the time, especially after some events that happened in the past with his sister. He loved everything about Billie, her confidence and her curvy body. Our billionaire was keen on spoiling Billie, who cared nothing about his money and more about being close to him, to feel that peace when she was next to him. But can they work out things out in order to get their happy ending?

Overall, it was a nice and relaxing read, one full of spiciness and a man who would do anything for the happiness of his woman. I didn't agree with some things out there but hey, this is fiction🤭.

✨Tropes
#Billionaire
#OppositesAttract
#HeFallsFirstAndHarder
#ManObsessed
#AgeGap
#CurvyHeroine
#BestFriendsBrother
#TouchHerAndDie
#Spicy
#BlackCat
#OneNightStand
Profile Image for Amy.
2,630 reviews2,020 followers
July 21, 2025
Billie is the kind of fierce, confident heroine I always root for, she owns a bookstore, loves spicy romance, and seriously? I want to be her friend. I’ve been dying to read her story since the last book, and the author absolutely delivered.

Connor? Whew. He’s protective, tender, and 100% obsessed with taking care of her in all the best ways. The audio made this even better—Connor Crais with an Irish accent melted me, and Emma Wilder’s performance brought Billie’s strength and softness to life perfectly.

This series is everything I want in small town romance, and I already can’t wait to head back to Montana! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


Tropes:
💰 Billionaire
🏡 Small town
☘️Best friend’s brother
🕰️Age gap
🌶️One night stand
Profile Image for Shana .
402 reviews66 followers
July 17, 2025
4.65⭐️ | 3.5🌶
Another Kristen banger! Damn, I love her books. I was so ready for Connor and Billie and the wait was so worth it! I am obsessed. Everything about this one was just swoon-worthy. The found family, I adore this universe with my soul. Was not a fan of Fiona though. Wanted more of Ronan but Kristen knocked it out of the park. I am curious to see certain Lexingtons fall in love (iykyk). This book has a triggering experience scene so please be aware of that. Thank you to valentine pr for this arc
Profile Image for Chiara^•^.
435 reviews116 followers
July 19, 2025
Where We Bloom by Kristen Proby
4/5⭐
3/5🌶️

I had such a wonderful time back in Bitterroot Valley! I’ve been so eager to dive into Billie and Connor’s story ever since I caught a glimpse of them in the first book. Billie and Connor share a wonderful one-night stand but then go their separate ways. The twist? Connor's sister is dating Billie's brother, so fate brings them together again! They both can’t shake off their memories of each other, but after Connor's divorce, he’s hesitant about relationships. Billie, on the other hand, is ready for more with him. Connor tries to keep his distance, but soon realizes that’s just not possible.

Connor is a billionaire who’s all about traveling for work. He’s a true workaholic and hasn’t thought to try another relationship—until he meets Billie. Suddenly, his job doesn’t mean everything to him anymore. He wants to be around her, to see her, and spend as much time as possible with her. Billie isn’t fully convinced at first, but Connor slowly starts showing her how serious he is and that she’s truly the most important person in his life. I loved seeing how he spoiled her, protected her, and made her feel cherished—it was just so swoon-worthy!

Billie is the youngest of the Blackwell siblings, and she’s amazing! She runs her own bookstore and is smart, independent, and beautiful. I admired her confidence, strength, and how fiercely she stands up for the people she loves. She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. The journey of Connor and Billie is beautiful and natural. I loved watching them get to know each other and how well they communicated with each other. Their protectiveness and possessiveness toward each other were so sweet to see. The family dynamics added so much to the story! The book club, the girl gang, the playful sibling bickering, and the friendships are perfect. Overall, this book is a fantastic addition to the series, and I'm excited to read the next one after reading the sneak peek!
Profile Image for Melissa .
701 reviews9 followers
July 23, 2025
4.5 stars

Where We Bloom is Book 3 in The Blackwells Of Montana series. This is Connor and Billie's story. When Connor and Billie have one explosive night together Connor didn't think he would see her again. However, Connor finds out later that Billie is his sister's best friend. Now she's everywhere he turns. Billie and Connor try to stay away from eachother, but cannot deny the growing attraction they have for eachother. With Connor being a high-profile billionaire comes with a price.

I really enjoyed this one!! In the previous book we got a glimpse into Connor and Billie's chemistry. I felt their attraction right away. I was super excited to listen to their story. I loved how head over heels Connor was over Billie. He was smitten, obsessed and very protective of her. I loved how he spoils her to her heart's content. I adored Billie. She was a spitfire. She loved designer clothing and loved to go thrift shopping. I loved how she was a bookworm like me. I also loved her honesty.

As for the audiobook narration, it's amazing! Performed in dual by Connor Crais and Emma Wilder. These two were wonderful. Connor's Irish accent is so good!! He brought out Connor's broodiness and I felt the yearning for Billie in his tone. Emma brought out Billie's sass and confidence using a strong, confident tone. She also had a great Irish accent. I loved her range as well. Both Connor and Emma's character transitions were seamless too. Overall, I enjoyed it!

Audiobook out now!

Thank you to @mustloveaudio for my ALC and for the opportunity to review and listen.
Profile Image for samsbookstagram.
771 reviews26 followers
July 8, 2025
4.5 Stars

I had been excited about Billie Blackwell's story since the previous series, and I was counting down the days since her relationship with Connor was first teased. And not only was their story amazing, it's my favorite so far in this series!

Billie and Connor had such incredible chemistry, and their initial denial of wanting each other or a relationship was honestly funny. Everyone but them (readers + characters included!) knew they belonged together, and the journey to them finally giving in was so fun. And once they did? These two were pure magic, and I couldn't get enough of them! Their story is sweet, sexy, and seriously swoony. I wish I had a quarter of Billie's confidence, and the way she brought Connor to his knees is truly magical. Their families, new characters, and quite a few hilarious moments perfectly rounded out this story.

I couldn't get enough of this audio. While Kristen Proby may have written the character, Connor Crais brought Connor to life. That Irish accent was a gift to my ears, and I couldn't get enough 🥵 Emma Wilder perfectly embodied Billie, and the narration as a whole was amazing.

**ALC received in exchange for an honest review**
Profile Image for Julie Booklover.
2,076 reviews105 followers
July 18, 2025
4.5 stars

I loved Billie and Connor’s story. Billie is a breath of fresh air, her sass, her lack of filter, and her love of finer things on a budget. She owns a bookstore!

Billie and Connor are connected through his sister, and a one night stand in the past. Despite their differences, they are meant for each other and take us on quite a journey. The passion, chemistry, and independence of the two. They need to let down walls and communicate. It is how she stands up for herself that he finds sexy!

Clear your schedule and get your favorite drink, this is a great read.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Emma (thecaffeinatedbookaholic).
599 reviews11 followers
July 15, 2025
Obsessed with Connor & Billie! I loved their banter, and how Billie wasn’t afraid to go head-to-head with him. I want to be like her when I grow up. I want her confidence. I loved the broody, stubborn Irish billionaire and the way he showed up for Billie when he realized he had to step up if he wanted her in his life. I loved their passion and their chemistry and how Billie seemed to soften Connor’s harsh edges. Absolutely loved it!!

[ARC review]
Profile Image for samantha.
223 reviews11 followers
July 23, 2025
ummm, did this just become my new favorite Kristen Proby book? SURE DID🙂

I love the way Billie stood her ground no matter what, and the way Connor knew what he wanted and spoiled his girl with love and affection (and material things bc what’s a billionaire romance if he doesn’t, hehehe). and the AUDIO? Connor Crais can read to me anytime, please and thank you. I’m so obsessed with Bitterroot Valley and cannot W A I T for my next trip back🥹
Profile Image for Mandy (Bookishlove85).
996 reviews81 followers
July 23, 2025
4.5 stars. There’s just something about the Blackwell family! I really have loved all of Kristen’s !book but I LOVED Billie’s HEA with Connor! Can’t wait for the next one in the series!
Profile Image for ♡︎ Kesa Subban ♡︎.
883 reviews55 followers
July 13, 2025
ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖢𝗈𝗇𝗇𝗈𝗋
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖡𝗂𝗅𝗅𝗂𝖾
5 𝘉𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘮 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬

𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧

Billie, she is an independent woman and business owner. She always wanted to open up her own bookstore and she has made that happen in her hometown of Bitterroot Valley.

One day that's all it took for her thoughts to always be filled with a stranger. One who walked into her store and asked her out to dinner. His hot, wears glasses and she most definitely won't see hin again.

𝑾𝒆𝒍𝒍...that's what she thought but things take an unexpected turn when said man is her best friends older brother!

Connor, billionaire businessman and owner of Gallagher Hotels. For the past few years he has been travelling never staying in one place long enough to call home. That's until his sister moves to Montana, and he follows to ensure her safety.

He was supposed to leave Montana, but the weather changed his plans. Walking the streets of Bitterroot Valley he sees a woman and she intrigues him. One night, that's what he thought it would be. He just didn't expect her to be his sister's friend.

She is on his mind every second of the day and she's everywhere he is!

The third book in this series and what a read.

Billie, is a no nonsense heroine. You are either all in, in a relationship or you can find the freaking door! She's smart, kickass and stands up for herself and her man. Connor tried keeping Billie at arms length but that didn't work out as planned. She's his. And he will do everything to protect her.

Connor and Billie had me laughing and blushing when reading "When We Break" & now we finally got their book and what a freaking read. It had me laughing, blushing and swooning!

The sizzling chemistry, the tension, push and pull, the spice & jealousy, Connor's protectiveness and possessiveness!!! And doing everything he can to make Billie happy!!!

Gah I was so here for it!!!

𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬

Next up is a surprise MFM excuse me!
Gabe, Alex & Adam...I. Can. Not. Wait.

Blake & Brooks, the last two Blackwells!

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ✈️ 💻🏨 ✈️💻
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 💋📖💋📖💋📖
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️🥵
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚📚
Profile Image for Red Panda Reads.
452 reviews
Read
July 26, 2025
Thank all that is holy this book is not called The Billionaire and the Bumble. I hate both names. I hate that Billie constantly verbalizes Connor's financial status. And is the woman on the cover of this book the same person as is on the cover of book one? I think so and that's super weird. This is a short book that took me too many days to read. I just could not get behind it and think the average rating is too high.

There are so many red flags, and I don't even think I am done with the first page. Dinner, sex, and a ride with someone whose name you don't know. Either Billie has a death wish or she is simply the most native person alive.

No matter how much money someone has, s/he still needs to be financially conscious; invest smartly, spend wisely, save appropriately, etc. Connor spends an obscene amount of money without batting an eye. Everyone has limits and I would never be comfortable having someone spend so much on me so quickly.

...it makes my loins stand up and applaud.
Well, that's a phrase I have never heard before. And I hate the word loins. And arse. And Arsehole.

...desk with both a laptop and a desktop computer, two possibly thirty-four-inch monitors...
Yeah, because we can all look at absurdly large monitors and say, 'yup, those are 34 inches.'

If anyone ever used my toothbrush, I would toss it. That is disgusting.





Profile Image for Jen | The Jenny Edit.
607 reviews30 followers
July 7, 2025
4.5⭐️

AUDIO REVIEW:

Good lord almighty, can Kristen write books that CONSUME US WHOLE. And in the case of Where We Bloom, one that steals our heart and our breath in equal measure. Billie and Connor, voiced by Emma Wilder and Connor Crais, respectively, are such vivid, amazing characters (as I knew they would be).

This book is emotional, full of longing and protectiveness, lust and spice. It's also a really compelling look at how a natural caretaker and a wildly independent woman can come together to find a happy middle ground that both can thrive in. It's also so sweet and sexy, I couldn't get enough.

Connor Crais does an Irish accent like a champ, completely sucking me in. He's also so talented at voicing female characters in a way that makes me forget I'm listening to one person perform multiple roles. And Emma has quickly become a favorite narrator as well, also so talented at voicing multiple genders and roles in such a compelling way. I adored this audiobook so so much.

Another exceptional addition to Kristen's Blackwells of Montana series, Where We Bloom is one not to miss! Thank you to Kristen and Valentine PR for the chance to experience this story in advance!
Profile Image for Kali Dempsey.
2,159 reviews59 followers
July 12, 2025
5 ⭐ 3 🌶️ 5 🎧

I absolutely loved these two. This one starts off with a literal bang when Conor and Billie enjoy a one night stand, only to soon discover he is the brother of one of her best friends. We get sneaky kisses and some push and pull as Conor deals with his previous no attachments stance, but watching them fall head over heels was so much fun.

There's some other woman drama, but Billie's confidence is something else as she takes on a former ex and a few flirty women. She is so beautiful and strong and knows her worth (most of the time) and I really appreciated that about her, especially as a plus sized woman myself. Conor would give her the world, and only has eyes for her, so it's pretty light on the angst, almost nonexistent tbh.

Blake is up next and his sneak peek had me screaming for more. I can't wait.

The audio was perfect. Emma Wilder and Connor Crais were amazing and I loved listening to them tell this story. Thank you so much to Must Love Audio for the advanced copy!
Profile Image for Travelogged Blogs.
1,545 reviews128 followers
July 17, 2025
“You’re a man of integrity, and I know you’re obsessed with me.” He narrows his eyes, and I offer him a big smile. “And I know that because I recognize the signs. Because I’m obsessed with you, too.”

I finished this book in one sitting! The chemistry between Connor & Billie was amazing, with just the right amount of tension. I liked how he treated her so well once he realised his feelings. He really went all out with those gifts and was so serious about keeping her safe, which was dreamy! And the family dynamics were as usual strong. So, I can't wait to read the next books in the series, especially Blake & Beckett's stories! Overall, i enjoyed reading this book. Connor & Billie's conection felt genuine but I felt like some parts were really long and Billie was kinda unnecessarily stubborn at times. Still, this was a delightful read and I'm genuinely excited for the next book!

I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
Profile Image for Judie.
353 reviews9 followers
July 8, 2025
Kristen Proby is an automatic buy for me. When you tell me I’m finally going to get Billie’s story? I devoured this book.

Connor and Billie have a steamy one night stand, but Connor can’t give Billie the commitment that she deserves. They have all these electric,stolen moments because Connor can’t keep his eyes or his hands off her.

I love the way Billie knows what she wants,knows who she is,values herself and her worth and won’t take less. Connor wants to spoil Billie and he does so with abandon. He has fallen hard for Billie and I am here for it

This book is filled with found family,stolen moments,romantic gestures and all the things that make you swoon. I was so happy to read this one and I know it is going to live rent free for a long time. I love the Blackwell of Montana!

Profile Image for Dev (lit.lark).
429 reviews17 followers
July 17, 2025
Another wonderful stay in Bitterroot Valley!

I think Kristen is incapable of writing a book I won't sit and read in one sitting. I was lucky enough to receive an ALC for this one too - and let me tell you: yes. Connor Crais with an irish accent is in fact what I needed to make me happy.

I absolutely LOVED Billie as our FMC. She is so unapologetically herself and she makes Connor work for it when he decides he wants to give a real relationship a try. He's the hot, irish billionaire, but she is the one in control here. I loved how down bad he was for her, though.

I loved their banter and as usual, the chemistry between them was perfect. I think Kristen always does a great job of balancing plot, spice, and character development in her stories so they're all so well rounded. I am incredibly excited to stay in BRV and get the next installment of this series as well, because that tease at the end hooked me!

Narration: as mentioned above, Connor Crais does an amazing job. Irish accents really are so dreamy. Emma Wilder did an amazing job as well, and their voices worked well together and I think they both really captured the spirit of each character. I see myself listening to this one again very soon!

As always, thank you Kristen for the early copy of this!
Profile Image for Jen Altman.
480 reviews66 followers
July 17, 2025
I’ve been eating up every book in the Blackwells of Montana series and could not wait to be back in Bitterroot Valley! Connor and Billie’s secret love affair was teased in the previous books, and I was eager to experience their story. An Irish billionaire and a headstrong plus-size female? YES PLEASE! Connor and Billie’s relationship was simply adorable. I loved how absolutely gone he was for her.

Billie is such a bold, self-assured character who knows exactly who she is and what she brings to the table. I definitely idolize her confidence! Her plus-size representation was handled perfectly with just the right balance of showcasing her experiences as a curvier woman without overshadowing her larger-than-life personality. And Connor? The way he absolutely spoiled Billie and treated her like a queen is everything. The man exuded sex appeal and swoon! She never once has to doubt his love. Their chemistry together was electric! They could barely keep their hands off each other, which led for some very spicy moments.

I truly enjoyed Connor and Billie's story, but it could have used some more angst or drama. While their relationship was perfect, it was almost a bit too much so. There wasn’t enough storyline to keep my attention for long periods of time. I liked it, but I just wanted more, especially for an almost 500-page read.

3.5 stars rounded down
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