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Silver Springs #2
What About Us
Not yet published
Expected 10 Sep 26Xander Hendrix was the only person in the world who was kind to me. Not my horrible family, and certainly no one else at school. He was the boy who protected me from bullies and made me feel . . . seen. Now, all these years later, he’s a hockey superstar, back in our hometown of Silver Springs with an injury—and he doesn’t remember me at all.
Let me tell you, that will mess with your head.
But I’ve never forgotten him. I’ve followed his amazing hockey career, cheering him on from afar while dealing with an abusive mother and a soul-crushing workload.
Now I’ve been hired as his physical therapist. Suddenly, my sole job is to spend every day with the tall, sexy athlete, helping him get back in shape to return to the ice and the sport he loves. But this isn’t just about rehab for him. The way he looks at me, takes care of me, and touches me is so much more than a simple working relationship.
When my already fragile life starts to totally fall apart, Xander is there to help me pick up the pieces. He’s the one person I can lean on. Count on. And don’t even get me started on what the man can do to my body.
But when he’s healed and it’s time for him to return to Denver, will what we’ve built be strong enough to keep us together? Or will I have to say goodbye?
Let me tell you, that will mess with your head.
But I’ve never forgotten him. I’ve followed his amazing hockey career, cheering him on from afar while dealing with an abusive mother and a soul-crushing workload.
Now I’ve been hired as his physical therapist. Suddenly, my sole job is to spend every day with the tall, sexy athlete, helping him get back in shape to return to the ice and the sport he loves. But this isn’t just about rehab for him. The way he looks at me, takes care of me, and touches me is so much more than a simple working relationship.
When my already fragile life starts to totally fall apart, Xander is there to help me pick up the pieces. He’s the one person I can lean on. Count on. And don’t even get me started on what the man can do to my body.
But when he’s healed and it’s time for him to return to Denver, will what we’ve built be strong enough to keep us together? Or will I have to say goodbye?
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 10, 2026
About the author
Kristen Proby
145 books16.8k 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 63 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh Kristen, This book has all my heart...
Some books make you smile. Some books make you cry. And then there are books like What About Us that somehow manage to do both at the exact same time.
I knew I was going to love Xander and Ivy's story after the little glimpses we got in previous books, but I wasn't prepared for just how emotionally invested I would become. From the very first chapter, I was completely wrapped up in their journey, and by the end, I honestly didn't want to leave Silver Springs.
At its core, this is a story about being seen.
Not just loved. Not just wanted.
Seen.
And that theme runs through every page of Ivy and Xander's relationship.
Ivy absolutely stole my heart. On the surface, she's strong, capable, independent, and incredibly hardworking. She's juggling a demanding career while also carrying responsibilities that no one her age should have to shoulder. But underneath all that strength is a woman who's spent most of her life feeling overlooked and undervalued. Watching her slowly discover what it feels like to have people genuinely show up for her was one of the most rewarding parts of the book.
And then there's Xander Hendrix.
Honestly, I don't know how Kristen Proby keeps creating men like this.
Xander might officially be a professional hockey player, but his true talent is making readers fall hopelessly in love with him. He is the ultimate acts-of-service hero. The kind of man who pays attention to the little things. The kind of man who remembers. The kind of man who quietly steps in and makes someone's life easier without ever asking for recognition.
What I loved most is that once Xander realizes how important Ivy is to him, there is absolutely no hesitation. No games. No unnecessary drama. No pretending he doesn't care.
He simply decides she's his person.
And then spends the rest of the book proving it.
The romance develops beautifully. While there is obvious attraction from the start, what really got me was the emotional intimacy. The conversations, the support, the trust they slowly build, the way they become each other's safe place. Their relationship feels mature and intentional, which made every romantic moment hit even harder.
The chemistry between them is fantastic, but it's the emotional connection that carries the story. Every interaction feels meaningful because these are two people who understand loneliness, disappointment, and the fear of being abandoned. Watching them slowly learn that they don't have to face those fears alone anymore was incredibly moving.
One thing Kristen Proby does exceptionally well is creating family dynamics that feel authentic. The Hendrix family once again brought so much warmth to the story, and the found-family elements were some of my favorite moments. There's something deeply comforting about seeing characters surrounded by people who genuinely love and support them.
On the flip side, Ivy's relationship with her mother broke my heart.
Without giving away spoilers, the book doesn't shy away from showing the long-term impact that emotional mistreatment can have on a person. I appreciated how realistically those struggles were portrayed and how Ivy's healing wasn't treated as something that happens overnight.
I also loved that both characters had their own emotional journeys. While Ivy's growth is more obvious, Xander is dealing with his own fears and baggage. His injury may be what brings him home physically, but the story becomes about much more than recovering from hockey. It's about learning what truly matters and discovering the kind of life he actually wants.
The small-town setting was another highlight for me. Silver Springs feels like one of those fictional towns you wish existed because every visit feels like coming home. The community, the friendships, and the familiar faces add so much heart to the story.
And the romance?
Perfect.
Sweet, emotional, swoony, and yes... incredibly spicy when it needs to be. But what I appreciated most was that even the steamier moments felt rooted in love and vulnerability rather than existing solely for shock value.
By the time I reached the epilogue, I was an emotional wreck in the best possible way. It left me smiling, crying, and desperately wanting the next book immediately.
If you enjoy: 🏒 Hockey romance
❤️ Friends-to-lovers vibes
✨ Acts-of-service heroes
🥹 Emotional healing
🏡 Small-town romance
👨👩👧👦 Found family
🔥 Protective but respectful MMCs
💖 "He falls hard" energy
🌿 Character growth and healing journeys
...then What About Us absolutely belongs on your TBR.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heartfelt, romantic, emotional, and impossible to put down, What About Us is a beautiful reminder that the right person doesn't just love you at your best. They show up when you're struggling, stand beside you when things get hard, and make sure you never have to carry life's burdens alone. Xander and Ivy completely stole my heart. 💙🏒📖✨
Thankyou (a hundred times) Kristen for this ARC..💙
Some books make you smile. Some books make you cry. And then there are books like What About Us that somehow manage to do both at the exact same time.
I knew I was going to love Xander and Ivy's story after the little glimpses we got in previous books, but I wasn't prepared for just how emotionally invested I would become. From the very first chapter, I was completely wrapped up in their journey, and by the end, I honestly didn't want to leave Silver Springs.
At its core, this is a story about being seen.
Not just loved. Not just wanted.
Seen.
And that theme runs through every page of Ivy and Xander's relationship.
Ivy absolutely stole my heart. On the surface, she's strong, capable, independent, and incredibly hardworking. She's juggling a demanding career while also carrying responsibilities that no one her age should have to shoulder. But underneath all that strength is a woman who's spent most of her life feeling overlooked and undervalued. Watching her slowly discover what it feels like to have people genuinely show up for her was one of the most rewarding parts of the book.
And then there's Xander Hendrix.
Honestly, I don't know how Kristen Proby keeps creating men like this.
Xander might officially be a professional hockey player, but his true talent is making readers fall hopelessly in love with him. He is the ultimate acts-of-service hero. The kind of man who pays attention to the little things. The kind of man who remembers. The kind of man who quietly steps in and makes someone's life easier without ever asking for recognition.
What I loved most is that once Xander realizes how important Ivy is to him, there is absolutely no hesitation. No games. No unnecessary drama. No pretending he doesn't care.
He simply decides she's his person.
And then spends the rest of the book proving it.
The romance develops beautifully. While there is obvious attraction from the start, what really got me was the emotional intimacy. The conversations, the support, the trust they slowly build, the way they become each other's safe place. Their relationship feels mature and intentional, which made every romantic moment hit even harder.
The chemistry between them is fantastic, but it's the emotional connection that carries the story. Every interaction feels meaningful because these are two people who understand loneliness, disappointment, and the fear of being abandoned. Watching them slowly learn that they don't have to face those fears alone anymore was incredibly moving.
One thing Kristen Proby does exceptionally well is creating family dynamics that feel authentic. The Hendrix family once again brought so much warmth to the story, and the found-family elements were some of my favorite moments. There's something deeply comforting about seeing characters surrounded by people who genuinely love and support them.
On the flip side, Ivy's relationship with her mother broke my heart.
Without giving away spoilers, the book doesn't shy away from showing the long-term impact that emotional mistreatment can have on a person. I appreciated how realistically those struggles were portrayed and how Ivy's healing wasn't treated as something that happens overnight.
I also loved that both characters had their own emotional journeys. While Ivy's growth is more obvious, Xander is dealing with his own fears and baggage. His injury may be what brings him home physically, but the story becomes about much more than recovering from hockey. It's about learning what truly matters and discovering the kind of life he actually wants.
The small-town setting was another highlight for me. Silver Springs feels like one of those fictional towns you wish existed because every visit feels like coming home. The community, the friendships, and the familiar faces add so much heart to the story.
And the romance?
Perfect.
Sweet, emotional, swoony, and yes... incredibly spicy when it needs to be. But what I appreciated most was that even the steamier moments felt rooted in love and vulnerability rather than existing solely for shock value.
By the time I reached the epilogue, I was an emotional wreck in the best possible way. It left me smiling, crying, and desperately wanting the next book immediately.
If you enjoy: 🏒 Hockey romance
❤️ Friends-to-lovers vibes
✨ Acts-of-service heroes
🥹 Emotional healing
🏡 Small-town romance
👨👩👧👦 Found family
🔥 Protective but respectful MMCs
💖 "He falls hard" energy
🌿 Character growth and healing journeys
...then What About Us absolutely belongs on your TBR.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heartfelt, romantic, emotional, and impossible to put down, What About Us is a beautiful reminder that the right person doesn't just love you at your best. They show up when you're struggling, stand beside you when things get hard, and make sure you never have to carry life's burdens alone. Xander and Ivy completely stole my heart. 💙🏒📖✨
Thankyou (a hundred times) Kristen for this ARC..💙
September 1, 2026
🏒❤️ A small town, found family, and a second chance with the boy who never really left her heart.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Spice-meter: 🌶️🌶️☆☆☆ (2/5)
Audiobook: 🎧 Duet Multi Cast
Series: Silver Springs, Book 2 (interconnected standalone)
HEA: Yes
What About Us was another really enjoyable trip back to Silver Springs. Kristen Proby once again combines romance with that warm small-town atmosphere and the kind of found-family energy that makes you want to become part of the community yourself.
What worked especially well for me was the overall feel of the book. It has an easy, comforting quality while still giving the characters enough emotional baggage to keep things interesting. The romance moves along nicely without feeling dragged out, and the relationship between Xander and the FMC has a sweetness to it that made them easy to root for.
I also really liked the way their history was incorporated into the romance. The childhood connection adds another layer to their relationship, while their present-day dynamic brings plenty of chemistry and tenderness.
The found-family element was another highlight for me. Much like the first book, the people surrounding the main couple add so much warmth to the story. Silver Springs really feels like a living, connected community, and I love getting to see more of that world with every book.
The emotional side of the story also worked well for me, particularly when it came to the FMC's struggles. Her journey isn't just about falling in love; there is also a strong sense of learning to accept support and allowing someone else to be there for her.
And naturally, I loved seeing familiar characters from the previous book popping up again. This series really benefits from being interconnected without making each romance dependent on the others.
🎧 Narration
The audiobook was fantastic.
Liam Cortright and Savannah Thomas were wonderful together. They gave Xander and the FMC plenty of personality and emotion, and their chemistry came through beautifully in the narration.
The additional cast Sebastian York, Stella Hunter, Jason Clarke, Connor Crais, Samantha Brentmoor, Avery Caris, and Kat Auden made the whole production feel much bigger and more immersive.
I especially love when a series uses a larger cast like this because it makes returning characters feel like actual people rather than voices appearing briefly in the background.
What I Loved
✔️ Warm small-town atmosphere
✔️ Strong found-family dynamic
✔️ Childhood connection
✔️ Natural romantic progression
✔️ Protective hero
✔️ Emotional but still comforting
✔️ Great chemistry
✔️ Anxiety representation
✔️ Familiar characters returning
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Hockey Romance
✔️ Small Town Romance
✔️ Friends to Lovers
✔️ Second Chance
✔️ Childhood Crush
✔️ Hockey Player x Physical Therapist
✔️ Forced Proximity
✔️ Protective & Possessive MMC
✔️ He Falls First
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Insta Love
✔️ Dual POV
Final Thoughts
What About Us is another warm, emotional, and easy-to-love addition to the Silver Springs world. It has the right balance of romance, emotional depth, family moments, and small-town charm without becoming overly heavy.
For me, the atmosphere and found-family relationships were just as enjoyable as the romance itself. Xander and the FMC have a lovely connection, and I really liked watching their relationship develop while getting another glimpse into this ever-growing family.
If you enjoyed Pretty Little Scars and love small-town hockey romance, found family, protective heroes, childhood connections, and emotionally satisfying romances, this is definitely worth continuing with.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Spice-meter: 🌶️🌶️☆☆☆ (2/5)
Audiobook: 🎧 Duet Multi Cast
Series: Silver Springs, Book 2 (interconnected standalone)
HEA: Yes
What About Us was another really enjoyable trip back to Silver Springs. Kristen Proby once again combines romance with that warm small-town atmosphere and the kind of found-family energy that makes you want to become part of the community yourself.
What worked especially well for me was the overall feel of the book. It has an easy, comforting quality while still giving the characters enough emotional baggage to keep things interesting. The romance moves along nicely without feeling dragged out, and the relationship between Xander and the FMC has a sweetness to it that made them easy to root for.
I also really liked the way their history was incorporated into the romance. The childhood connection adds another layer to their relationship, while their present-day dynamic brings plenty of chemistry and tenderness.
The found-family element was another highlight for me. Much like the first book, the people surrounding the main couple add so much warmth to the story. Silver Springs really feels like a living, connected community, and I love getting to see more of that world with every book.
The emotional side of the story also worked well for me, particularly when it came to the FMC's struggles. Her journey isn't just about falling in love; there is also a strong sense of learning to accept support and allowing someone else to be there for her.
And naturally, I loved seeing familiar characters from the previous book popping up again. This series really benefits from being interconnected without making each romance dependent on the others.
🎧 Narration
The audiobook was fantastic.
Liam Cortright and Savannah Thomas were wonderful together. They gave Xander and the FMC plenty of personality and emotion, and their chemistry came through beautifully in the narration.
The additional cast Sebastian York, Stella Hunter, Jason Clarke, Connor Crais, Samantha Brentmoor, Avery Caris, and Kat Auden made the whole production feel much bigger and more immersive.
I especially love when a series uses a larger cast like this because it makes returning characters feel like actual people rather than voices appearing briefly in the background.
What I Loved
✔️ Warm small-town atmosphere
✔️ Strong found-family dynamic
✔️ Childhood connection
✔️ Natural romantic progression
✔️ Protective hero
✔️ Emotional but still comforting
✔️ Great chemistry
✔️ Anxiety representation
✔️ Familiar characters returning
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Hockey Romance
✔️ Small Town Romance
✔️ Friends to Lovers
✔️ Second Chance
✔️ Childhood Crush
✔️ Hockey Player x Physical Therapist
✔️ Forced Proximity
✔️ Protective & Possessive MMC
✔️ He Falls First
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Insta Love
✔️ Dual POV
Final Thoughts
What About Us is another warm, emotional, and easy-to-love addition to the Silver Springs world. It has the right balance of romance, emotional depth, family moments, and small-town charm without becoming overly heavy.
For me, the atmosphere and found-family relationships were just as enjoyable as the romance itself. Xander and the FMC have a lovely connection, and I really liked watching their relationship develop while getting another glimpse into this ever-growing family.
If you enjoyed Pretty Little Scars and love small-town hockey romance, found family, protective heroes, childhood connections, and emotionally satisfying romances, this is definitely worth continuing with.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Xander & Ivy
What About Us
I have been waiting for this story since the ending of Pretty Little Scars, and when I tell you this story was SO much better than even the ridiculous amount I hyped it up in my head … I genuinely cannot explain it. It was just. So. Good.
Xander is definitely Tucker’s brother, but you can see how differently he feels about relationships. And then there’s Ivy.
Here’s the thing: Xander has known Ivy his whole life. The reason she remembers him is because when they were younger, he was kind to her. And that kindness sticks with her.
There are definitely trigger warnings you’ll want to pay attention to, and let me just say … we HATE Ivy’s mom. But I think what makes up for so much of it is that these Hendrix siblings know how to make their partners feel cared for, seen, valued, and loved.
And honestly? I think that is one of the biggest acts of love there is: to truly see someone.
Not just on their best days.
But on their worst days, too.
Xander sees Ivy when she’s struggling. He sees the crosses she carries, and none of it makes her less worthy in his eyes. It doesn’t change the way he feels about her. And that feeling is reciprocated when Ivy sees Xander at his lowest, too.
I LOVED the slow burn and the intention behind their relationship. I loved that when Xander finally realized, You know what? I really like this girl, and I want to pursue something more, there was never really a question about it.
It was simply: This is the girl I can’t stop thinking about. This is the girl I can see a life with.
And watching Ivy finally experience what it feels like to be cherished?
Watching her make friends who actually cared about her. Watching her finally have people in her corner. Watching her not be exhausted every single day because of all the hours she was working …
I loved ALL of it.
This audiobook is narrated in full cast duet, and Savannah and Liam did such an incredible job. You feel everything that Kristen writes, and their narration brought that emotional depth to life so beautifully.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again:
This is a GOD-TIER series for me.
I don’t rank books. I don’t usually throw around six stars or infinity stars or anything like that …
But this one?
Six stars.
I genuinely don’t know how else to say it.
This entire series is becoming untouchable in my little black heart.
What About Us releases September 10, 2026, and I genuinely cannot wait for everyone to get their hands on this story.
This review is currently ALL of my feelings while keeping it completely spoiler-free, because I want you to experience this story for yourself. I want you to feel as deeply as I did.
And Kristen? You did SO darn well with this one.
Now go read it. And then go tell Kristen how much you loved it because she deserves to hear it.
What About Us
I have been waiting for this story since the ending of Pretty Little Scars, and when I tell you this story was SO much better than even the ridiculous amount I hyped it up in my head … I genuinely cannot explain it. It was just. So. Good.
Xander is definitely Tucker’s brother, but you can see how differently he feels about relationships. And then there’s Ivy.
Here’s the thing: Xander has known Ivy his whole life. The reason she remembers him is because when they were younger, he was kind to her. And that kindness sticks with her.
There are definitely trigger warnings you’ll want to pay attention to, and let me just say … we HATE Ivy’s mom. But I think what makes up for so much of it is that these Hendrix siblings know how to make their partners feel cared for, seen, valued, and loved.
And honestly? I think that is one of the biggest acts of love there is: to truly see someone.
Not just on their best days.
But on their worst days, too.
Xander sees Ivy when she’s struggling. He sees the crosses she carries, and none of it makes her less worthy in his eyes. It doesn’t change the way he feels about her. And that feeling is reciprocated when Ivy sees Xander at his lowest, too.
I LOVED the slow burn and the intention behind their relationship. I loved that when Xander finally realized, You know what? I really like this girl, and I want to pursue something more, there was never really a question about it.
It was simply: This is the girl I can’t stop thinking about. This is the girl I can see a life with.
And watching Ivy finally experience what it feels like to be cherished?
Watching her make friends who actually cared about her. Watching her finally have people in her corner. Watching her not be exhausted every single day because of all the hours she was working …
I loved ALL of it.
This audiobook is narrated in full cast duet, and Savannah and Liam did such an incredible job. You feel everything that Kristen writes, and their narration brought that emotional depth to life so beautifully.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again:
This is a GOD-TIER series for me.
I don’t rank books. I don’t usually throw around six stars or infinity stars or anything like that …
But this one?
Six stars.
I genuinely don’t know how else to say it.
This entire series is becoming untouchable in my little black heart.
What About Us releases September 10, 2026, and I genuinely cannot wait for everyone to get their hands on this story.
This review is currently ALL of my feelings while keeping it completely spoiler-free, because I want you to experience this story for yourself. I want you to feel as deeply as I did.
And Kristen? You did SO darn well with this one.
Now go read it. And then go tell Kristen how much you loved it because she deserves to hear it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Xander is a professional hockey player and has returned to Silver Springs to recover from a major injury. Ivy is a physiotherapist with a specialization in sports medicine. She is hired by the team to help with Xander’s recovery. Ivy has had a crush on Xander since high school when he stood up for her against some bullies. The only problem is he doesn’t seem to remember. Xander is attracted to Ivy and feels protective of her. When he sees her mother treating her badly, he packs her up and takes her to his house. Ivy works to keep their relationship professional, but there is no denying their chemistry. As Xander heals and works toward returning to professional hockey, it leaves both of them wondering if this is just a fling or if it could be something more.
The tension between staying professional and giving in to their chemistry was absolutely delicious. Their chemistry and banter were off the charts, and I loved how they challenged and balanced each other. Both Ivy and Xander are managing their own baggage and history, which they had to work on while navigating a relationship.
There were so many times I felt for Ivy. Her mother is a piece of work, and my heart hurt when reading some of Ivy’s story. I loved that she started standing up to her mother and how her relationship with Xander gave her the safety to stand up to her. Xander saw Ivy when she was struggling, and showed her that his feelings for her don’t change.
Xander is a man who is built on acts of service. He offered Ivy his home, his heart, and built a freaking art studio for her! Xander has his own struggles with trust though. Since his mom left when he was little, his dad and siblings mean everything to him, but he doesn’t trust relationships with women, feeling they will always leave. I like how Ivy showed she would stay, and they both discussed their insecurities and how to allow each other to both feel fulfilled and safe. This felt like a truly adult relationship between two people who love and care for each other.
As with all of Kristen Proby’s books, there is this found family aspect that I absolutely love. I come for the romance, but stay for the friendships and family bonds. I loved watching Xander and Ivy’s relationship develop while I got a glimpse into the Hendrix family some more. If you love a small town hockey romance, with found family and a protective man who loves and loves hard, this is the perfect book for you.
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
The tension between staying professional and giving in to their chemistry was absolutely delicious. Their chemistry and banter were off the charts, and I loved how they challenged and balanced each other. Both Ivy and Xander are managing their own baggage and history, which they had to work on while navigating a relationship.
There were so many times I felt for Ivy. Her mother is a piece of work, and my heart hurt when reading some of Ivy’s story. I loved that she started standing up to her mother and how her relationship with Xander gave her the safety to stand up to her. Xander saw Ivy when she was struggling, and showed her that his feelings for her don’t change.
Xander is a man who is built on acts of service. He offered Ivy his home, his heart, and built a freaking art studio for her! Xander has his own struggles with trust though. Since his mom left when he was little, his dad and siblings mean everything to him, but he doesn’t trust relationships with women, feeling they will always leave. I like how Ivy showed she would stay, and they both discussed their insecurities and how to allow each other to both feel fulfilled and safe. This felt like a truly adult relationship between two people who love and care for each other.
As with all of Kristen Proby’s books, there is this found family aspect that I absolutely love. I come for the romance, but stay for the friendships and family bonds. I loved watching Xander and Ivy’s relationship develop while I got a glimpse into the Hendrix family some more. If you love a small town hockey romance, with found family and a protective man who loves and loves hard, this is the perfect book for you.
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I honestly don't know if I can handle Kristen continuing to create characters like this. Ivy & Xander were PERFECT. Xander is healing physically while Ivy is emotionally exhausted. Such a beautiful journey for both of them, and I loved every single second of it!
“You’re my favorite, Xander Nathaniel Hendrix.”
“𝑰’𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒈𝒏𝒊𝒛𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆. 𝑨𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔. 𝑰𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒆.”
🩵 Friends-to-Lovers
🤍 Hockey Romance
🩵 Forced Proximity
🤍 Found Family
🩵 Small Town
🤍 He Falls HARD
🩵 Emotional Healing
“𝑯𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒂 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒅𝒂𝒚, 𝑹𝒆𝒅.”
“You always called me that in high school.”
“𝑰𝒕 𝒇𝒊𝒕𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖."
“The hair.”
“𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒍𝒖𝒔𝒉."
I AM COMPLETELY OBSESSED. Everyone needs a man like Xander in their corner. This man was patient, understanding, supportive, protective, and just genuinely there for Ivy when she needed him. Not to mention hotter than he has any right to be! And Ivy, ugh sweet Ivy. I wanted to hug her and never let her go. She spends so much of her life putting everyone else first & carrying responsibilities that should never have been hers to carry. Watching her slowly learn that she deserves to be cared for, supported, and chosen was such an emotional journey. My heart absolutely hurt for her at times.
Xander is a professional hockey player who is now recovering from a pretty upsetting injury. He misses his family & makes the decision to head home to Silver Springs where he will recover while being able to be with the people he loves. Ivy is a physical therapist who is working herself to the bone having to help out at her family's bar because her mother can't be bothered. Xander & Ivy have also known each other since high school (although Xander does not remember)!
So when Xander comes home and starts PT with Ivy, you can imagine how quickly things start getting interesting. Especially when Ivy has been crushing on him for basically as long as she can remember. Watching their chemistry just grow & become even hotter was SO good.
Xander was ALL IN. There was never any question about how he felt once he realized what was happening between them. He saw Ivy. He understood her. He knew when she needed someone to lean on, and he never hesitated to be that person for her. And watching Ivy finally have someone who was willing to take care of her for a change? MY HEART!
These two were able to heal in ways they didn't even realize they needed to. They became each other's safe place & biggest supporters, always showing up for one another when they needed it most. The way they supported each other through everything was just incredible. Absolute PERFECTION!
“You’re my favorite, Xander Nathaniel Hendrix.”
“𝑰’𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒈𝒏𝒊𝒛𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆. 𝑨𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔. 𝑰𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒆.”
🩵 Friends-to-Lovers
🤍 Hockey Romance
🩵 Forced Proximity
🤍 Found Family
🩵 Small Town
🤍 He Falls HARD
🩵 Emotional Healing
“𝑯𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒂 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒅𝒂𝒚, 𝑹𝒆𝒅.”
“You always called me that in high school.”
“𝑰𝒕 𝒇𝒊𝒕𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖."
“The hair.”
“𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒍𝒖𝒔𝒉."
I AM COMPLETELY OBSESSED. Everyone needs a man like Xander in their corner. This man was patient, understanding, supportive, protective, and just genuinely there for Ivy when she needed him. Not to mention hotter than he has any right to be! And Ivy, ugh sweet Ivy. I wanted to hug her and never let her go. She spends so much of her life putting everyone else first & carrying responsibilities that should never have been hers to carry. Watching her slowly learn that she deserves to be cared for, supported, and chosen was such an emotional journey. My heart absolutely hurt for her at times.
Xander is a professional hockey player who is now recovering from a pretty upsetting injury. He misses his family & makes the decision to head home to Silver Springs where he will recover while being able to be with the people he loves. Ivy is a physical therapist who is working herself to the bone having to help out at her family's bar because her mother can't be bothered. Xander & Ivy have also known each other since high school (although Xander does not remember)!
So when Xander comes home and starts PT with Ivy, you can imagine how quickly things start getting interesting. Especially when Ivy has been crushing on him for basically as long as she can remember. Watching their chemistry just grow & become even hotter was SO good.
Xander was ALL IN. There was never any question about how he felt once he realized what was happening between them. He saw Ivy. He understood her. He knew when she needed someone to lean on, and he never hesitated to be that person for her. And watching Ivy finally have someone who was willing to take care of her for a change? MY HEART!
These two were able to heal in ways they didn't even realize they needed to. They became each other's safe place & biggest supporters, always showing up for one another when they needed it most. The way they supported each other through everything was just incredible. Absolute PERFECTION!
August 29, 2026
4.5⭐️
I’ve been in love with Kristen Proby’s books since last year and it’s so beautiful and amazing reading her newest work of art 🥹🩵 she has a way to write characters with so much depth, emotion and heart, and I know every time that the book won’t last me more than a few hours 😩🛐
I’ve been waiting to dive into Xander and Ivy’s story since the moment I finished Pretty Little Scars, and oh boy, Ivy was such an amazing surprise, I love her!! My girl is so pure and brave and amazing and sassy in the best way, and smart and so resilient too, she’s been dealing with her awful mother her whole life and with her abuses, she told her time and time again that her anxiety wasn’t a big deal, always brushing off her feelings, she was bullied at school, and she though she want worthy of love or even remembered 😩💔 and my heart broke any time she self doubt about her and her value, she’s an amazing physical therapist and a great friend and human being, so it was a no-brainer that Xander was sooo gone for her the moment he knew she would be his physical therapist 🙊😮💨
Of course I loved Xander, I mean, how couldn’t I?! That man’s love language was acts of service and it noticed!! 😩🩵🛐 he was adamant to keep Ivy safe, he offered her a home when she needed it, he couldn’t keep his hands off her, he wanted to help her achieve all of her dreams, he was so proud of her, in every possible way, and the best part? He believed in her, he always listened to her about his knee rehab, he respected her profession en encouraged her to pursue her goals 😭🩵 and he’s the most amazing cat daddy too 😩🛐 their relationship is the most perfect thing I’ve ever read! Their connection was instant, but it was also timeless and had history, they were so meant to be that I just couldn’t stop reading them together 🩵 I have no single bad thing to say about this book at all!
And all the family?! Ughh I love them! I loved Brit and Cooper too, I loved every single character in this book! Well almost hehe and yeah I’m talking about Ivy’s mom and Chad… and speaking about that guy… can we pleaseeeee have Ava’s book?? I need her to realize how such an amazing woman she is and what she truly deserves and that Chad is not her person pretty please 🛐🙈 also, that tension between Indie and Zack!!!!?😩😮💨ma’am I need the rest of this series now pretty please 🙊🛐🩵
I’ve been in love with Kristen Proby’s books since last year and it’s so beautiful and amazing reading her newest work of art 🥹🩵 she has a way to write characters with so much depth, emotion and heart, and I know every time that the book won’t last me more than a few hours 😩🛐
I’ve been waiting to dive into Xander and Ivy’s story since the moment I finished Pretty Little Scars, and oh boy, Ivy was such an amazing surprise, I love her!! My girl is so pure and brave and amazing and sassy in the best way, and smart and so resilient too, she’s been dealing with her awful mother her whole life and with her abuses, she told her time and time again that her anxiety wasn’t a big deal, always brushing off her feelings, she was bullied at school, and she though she want worthy of love or even remembered 😩💔 and my heart broke any time she self doubt about her and her value, she’s an amazing physical therapist and a great friend and human being, so it was a no-brainer that Xander was sooo gone for her the moment he knew she would be his physical therapist 🙊😮💨
Of course I loved Xander, I mean, how couldn’t I?! That man’s love language was acts of service and it noticed!! 😩🩵🛐 he was adamant to keep Ivy safe, he offered her a home when she needed it, he couldn’t keep his hands off her, he wanted to help her achieve all of her dreams, he was so proud of her, in every possible way, and the best part? He believed in her, he always listened to her about his knee rehab, he respected her profession en encouraged her to pursue her goals 😭🩵 and he’s the most amazing cat daddy too 😩🛐 their relationship is the most perfect thing I’ve ever read! Their connection was instant, but it was also timeless and had history, they were so meant to be that I just couldn’t stop reading them together 🩵 I have no single bad thing to say about this book at all!
And all the family?! Ughh I love them! I loved Brit and Cooper too, I loved every single character in this book! Well almost hehe and yeah I’m talking about Ivy’s mom and Chad… and speaking about that guy… can we pleaseeeee have Ava’s book?? I need her to realize how such an amazing woman she is and what she truly deserves and that Chad is not her person pretty please 🛐🙈 also, that tension between Indie and Zack!!!!?😩😮💨ma’am I need the rest of this series now pretty please 🙊🛐🩵
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC/ALC from the author
Book Two in Silver Springs Series
Narration: Duet - Narrators Liam Cortright as Xander and Savannah Thomas as Ivy along with a full cast
I both read and listened to this book. The audio book was fantastic - chef's kiss!!! Liam and Savannah did such an amazing job of bringing these characters to life for me along with the full cast.
There are just some books that speak directly to your heart - and What About Us did exactly that. I felt a true connection to Ivy. This is Xander Hendrix and Ivy Bensen's book. Xander and Ivy go way back and have known each other most of their lives - having gone to school together. Xander was the one person to have always been kind to Ivy and was her protector during those hard years for her. He was always the one person she could always count on to protect her from the bullies.
He is now a professional hockey player for the Denver Flurry and he finds himself back in Montana to heal from a terrible injury on the ice. Ivy is a physical therapist who specializes in sports medicine and was hired by his team to help him recover and get back on the ice. The only problem is Xander doesn't seem remember Ivy. I could feel Ivy's heartbreak over this.
Ivy is strong and determined and very hardworking - working two jobs including trying to keep the family owned bar afloat, despite how vile her mother is. But she also has some pretty big baggage. Did I mention I HATE her mom. She is just vile. Xander sees how hard she is working and is trying to step up and make things a little easier for her. He defiantly had me swooning. He is there to step in when things get very messy with her mom. And who can forget how much he loves her cat!!!
But in the back of her mind she still feels like she can't trust that he won't forget her again and move back to his life in Denver.
The chemistry between Ivy and Xander is off the charts. I love all the little things Xander does to show Ivy that he sees her and he will always see her. However, they both have demons from the past that they are dealing with - will they be able to over come them and have a future together?
One of the many things I love about Kristen is how well she is at creating a small town family dynamics and this series is top notch in that department. Also, I love how touching it is to see all the "girls" come together to welcome Ivy into their circle. I don't know how she continues to do this every time. She is just brilliant. This book gave me all the feels!!! Five starts isn't enough!!!
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
Book Two in Silver Springs Series
Narration: Duet - Narrators Liam Cortright as Xander and Savannah Thomas as Ivy along with a full cast
I both read and listened to this book. The audio book was fantastic - chef's kiss!!! Liam and Savannah did such an amazing job of bringing these characters to life for me along with the full cast.
There are just some books that speak directly to your heart - and What About Us did exactly that. I felt a true connection to Ivy. This is Xander Hendrix and Ivy Bensen's book. Xander and Ivy go way back and have known each other most of their lives - having gone to school together. Xander was the one person to have always been kind to Ivy and was her protector during those hard years for her. He was always the one person she could always count on to protect her from the bullies.
He is now a professional hockey player for the Denver Flurry and he finds himself back in Montana to heal from a terrible injury on the ice. Ivy is a physical therapist who specializes in sports medicine and was hired by his team to help him recover and get back on the ice. The only problem is Xander doesn't seem remember Ivy. I could feel Ivy's heartbreak over this.
Ivy is strong and determined and very hardworking - working two jobs including trying to keep the family owned bar afloat, despite how vile her mother is. But she also has some pretty big baggage. Did I mention I HATE her mom. She is just vile. Xander sees how hard she is working and is trying to step up and make things a little easier for her. He defiantly had me swooning. He is there to step in when things get very messy with her mom. And who can forget how much he loves her cat!!!
But in the back of her mind she still feels like she can't trust that he won't forget her again and move back to his life in Denver.
The chemistry between Ivy and Xander is off the charts. I love all the little things Xander does to show Ivy that he sees her and he will always see her. However, they both have demons from the past that they are dealing with - will they be able to over come them and have a future together?
One of the many things I love about Kristen is how well she is at creating a small town family dynamics and this series is top notch in that department. Also, I love how touching it is to see all the "girls" come together to welcome Ivy into their circle. I don't know how she continues to do this every time. She is just brilliant. This book gave me all the feels!!! Five starts isn't enough!!!
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kristen Proby took me on an emotional journey with What About Us. Needless to say I'm in love with Xander and Ivy. Their story made me laugh and swoon, and at same time a little angry, sad and anxious. I didn't took it well when Xander got injured and I totally understand him when he decided to get back home to heal and recover. Because being back at home was half of his healing. He's a man who loves his family and the home he created for himself. Ivy was my hero and a survivor queen extraordinary despite her anxiety. And being a PT for athletes makes her the best for the job to bring back Xander to top form. And it was just an added bonus that they have some shared past with Xander. Which he doesn't remember and it's just sad that Ivy feels hurt by it. But working with Xander every day quickly made her realize that he's recovering not only physically but also mentally and he has some memories lost. And that broke my heart. What I didn't expect for them to have so much in common like interests and sports and friends. I didn't like it that both of them didn't get the best mothers and they're scarred from their past. Being together helped them heal. And for the first time Ivy felt seen and understood and for the first time Xander was chosen for who he is. And it was so good watching them slowly fall for each other. And their chemistry was insane . Not everything was perfect for them but they overcome those roadblocks in their way. Loved it that Ivy got the opportunity to choose her future and to finally deal with her past. And Xander got the chance to fulfill his dream professionally and to have the life he always wanted. The happily ever after that Xander and Ivy got was well deserved and truly theirs. That bonus epilogue was everything.
As always I loved the girl gang and the close relationship that they all have. What I didn't expected was the Indigo plot twist. And I felt deeply for Ava and wasn't well at all with her choice to settle in a relationship without love. And after that preview of her story I don't know what to think. Also I have some suspicions and that's why I can't wait for her story.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book.
As always I loved the girl gang and the close relationship that they all have. What I didn't expected was the Indigo plot twist. And I felt deeply for Ava and wasn't well at all with her choice to settle in a relationship without love. And after that preview of her story I don't know what to think. Also I have some suspicions and that's why I can't wait for her story.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐ Kristen Proby's What About Us sent my heart into a tailspin. This is a love story that will twist your heart, smooth out the pain, and put you on a rollercoaster ride where you'll be grinning from ear to ear by the end. Even though there are a few dark moments in this story, my heart was full to the brim by the time I reached the end. (Check the trigger warnings if you are sensitive to reading about traumatic events)
Xander and Ivy’s story had gut wrenching moments but knowing that Kristen Proby would protect our hearts, all would be alright. I knew that they would somehow get through it all and have their HEA, reading about how they got there was simply an amazing journey.
I also listened to the ALC by two of my favourite narrators. This was also a full cast narration, in that narrators for the characters from the rest of the series show up here to play their part. I freaking loved it! Savannah and Liam gave amazing performances that made me feel all the emotions. From the embarrassment, the hurt, the fun parts and the loving moments. I loved it all.
Xander is fun and swoony. He has some trauma to work through, the least of which is rehabbing from his knee injury. Ivy has her own family related demons, some of which are still hounding at her door. But Xander and his big family and the rest of Silver Springs as well as neighbouring town of Bitterroot Valley (yes, for those who've read the Bitterroot Valley series, there are a few cameos here) show up for Ivy and help her see that not all family members are rotten.
Throw in a small family history twist which grows the Hendrix clan, and this is What About Us. I can’t wait to read the next book, and find out how Ava gets her HEA.
Thank you Kristen Proby for this eARC and ALC. The above is my own and personal opinion.
Xander and Ivy’s story had gut wrenching moments but knowing that Kristen Proby would protect our hearts, all would be alright. I knew that they would somehow get through it all and have their HEA, reading about how they got there was simply an amazing journey.
I also listened to the ALC by two of my favourite narrators. This was also a full cast narration, in that narrators for the characters from the rest of the series show up here to play their part. I freaking loved it! Savannah and Liam gave amazing performances that made me feel all the emotions. From the embarrassment, the hurt, the fun parts and the loving moments. I loved it all.
Xander is fun and swoony. He has some trauma to work through, the least of which is rehabbing from his knee injury. Ivy has her own family related demons, some of which are still hounding at her door. But Xander and his big family and the rest of Silver Springs as well as neighbouring town of Bitterroot Valley (yes, for those who've read the Bitterroot Valley series, there are a few cameos here) show up for Ivy and help her see that not all family members are rotten.
Throw in a small family history twist which grows the Hendrix clan, and this is What About Us. I can’t wait to read the next book, and find out how Ava gets her HEA.
Thank you Kristen Proby for this eARC and ALC. The above is my own and personal opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I already loved being in Silver Springs after Pretty Little Scars, but Xander & Ivy’s story made me fall for this family even more. Kristen Proby really knows how to balance a swoony romance with the kind of found family & small-town warmth that makes a series so easy to get lost in.
Ivy absolutely had my heart. She’s spent so much of her life feeling like she has to handle everything on her own, while carrying the weight of a mother who constantly makes her question her worth. Watching her slowly realize that she deserves people who show up for her, support her & actually see her was one of my favorite parts of this story.
And Xander. This man is ACTS OF SERVICE in all caps. Once he realizes he wants Ivy, he is completely gone for her. He pays attention, takes care of her without making her feel incapable & supports both her career & the things that make her happy. I especially loved that their relationship felt like an actual partnership. They both have baggage that shaped how they approach love & trust, but instead of unnecessary drama, we get to watch them work through those fears together.
Their history made everything even sweeter, especially knowing Ivy never forgot the boy who once stood up for her. Add in the Hendrix family, all the familiar faces & that found family goodness, & Silver Springs is quickly becoming one of those fictional towns I never want to leave.
I did this as a tandem read/listen & the audiobook was INCREDIBLE. Liam Cortright & Savannah Thomas perform Xander & Ivy in duet narration, with a full cast bringing the rest of Silver Springs to life. I love when interconnected series do this because it makes the entire world feel so much more immersive.
Sweet, emotional, spicy & full of heart, What About Us was such a great addition to this series. And really, give me a protective hockey player whose love language is taking care of the woman he loves & I’m already sold.
🏒 Pro Hockey Player x Physical Therapist
🏡 Small Town
💕 Friends to Lovers
☺️ Childhood Crush
❤️🩹 Who Hurt You?
💪🏻 Protective MMC
🐈 Cat Dad
🫶 Found Family
✌🏻 Dual POV
Ivy absolutely had my heart. She’s spent so much of her life feeling like she has to handle everything on her own, while carrying the weight of a mother who constantly makes her question her worth. Watching her slowly realize that she deserves people who show up for her, support her & actually see her was one of my favorite parts of this story.
And Xander. This man is ACTS OF SERVICE in all caps. Once he realizes he wants Ivy, he is completely gone for her. He pays attention, takes care of her without making her feel incapable & supports both her career & the things that make her happy. I especially loved that their relationship felt like an actual partnership. They both have baggage that shaped how they approach love & trust, but instead of unnecessary drama, we get to watch them work through those fears together.
Their history made everything even sweeter, especially knowing Ivy never forgot the boy who once stood up for her. Add in the Hendrix family, all the familiar faces & that found family goodness, & Silver Springs is quickly becoming one of those fictional towns I never want to leave.
I did this as a tandem read/listen & the audiobook was INCREDIBLE. Liam Cortright & Savannah Thomas perform Xander & Ivy in duet narration, with a full cast bringing the rest of Silver Springs to life. I love when interconnected series do this because it makes the entire world feel so much more immersive.
Sweet, emotional, spicy & full of heart, What About Us was such a great addition to this series. And really, give me a protective hockey player whose love language is taking care of the woman he loves & I’m already sold.
🏒 Pro Hockey Player x Physical Therapist
🏡 Small Town
💕 Friends to Lovers
☺️ Childhood Crush
❤️🩹 Who Hurt You?
💪🏻 Protective MMC
🐈 Cat Dad
🫶 Found Family
✌🏻 Dual POV
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved going back to Silver Springs filled with a small-town charm that had me completely devouring this swoony, feel-good, friends-to-lovers romance! Professional hockey player, Xander Hendrix, is hurt during a game, and decides to recover back home in Silver Springs to be closer to his family. Ivy Bensen is a physical therapist specializing in sports injuries and has been hired to rehab Xander's injury. Ivy is a family friend and has had a crush on Xander since he protected her against school bullies when they were younger. It pains them both that Xander doesn't remember their history, but his body does. He is wildy attracted to Ivy and becomes even more protective when he sees how her mother treats her. Ivy tries to keep their relationship professional, but their fiery chemistry is too strong to ignore. They start building a more fun and intimate relationship as they work hard on his recovery. Their family and friends are excited for their new relationship as well. But as Xander heals, and is ready to return to the team, will they be able to make their new love work when they are states away? I fell hard for Xander and Ivy, they challenge each other, their banter is fun, and their chemistry is off the charts. Ivy was strong, resilient and caring, making her perfect for Xander who is so sweet, protective and swoony as he showed Ivy she was worthy of love. I also adored the found-family dynamic with all their loving and supportive friends and family who made this story even more fun and authentic. This is a beautiful story filled with humor, heart and heat that was completely addicting.
Liam Cortright and Savannah Thomas are brilliant as Xander and Ivy, delivering a performance that was completely addictive! Add in the featured talents of Avery Caris, Kat Auden, Stella Hunter, Jason Clarke, Connor Crais, Sebastian York, and Samantha Brentmoor who easily delivered all the wit, emotion, and steam of this delightful story and you have aural gold!
Liam Cortright and Savannah Thomas are brilliant as Xander and Ivy, delivering a performance that was completely addictive! Add in the featured talents of Avery Caris, Kat Auden, Stella Hunter, Jason Clarke, Connor Crais, Sebastian York, and Samantha Brentmoor who easily delivered all the wit, emotion, and steam of this delightful story and you have aural gold!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ivy lived in a small town, her life was not easy and she was sort of a loner and bullied in school. She didn’t have any friends but everyone knew everyone, when it came to living in Silver Springs. The only person she ever cared and was in love with since she was a child was Xander. He protected her and made sure the bullies stayed away. He was the popular one, the jock, the one that made his dreams come true, while she was the nerd and chubby girl. However, years later he had no idea who she was. It shocked her at first, because of their history, but she choked it down to he was a nice guy and did that for everyone, why would she stand out and remember her. She was no one to him. That was until years later when he got injured and move back home, while he was healing.
Xander has never wanted a relationship. He was never looking for one and always kept the woman he was with at arm’s length. But when Ivy walked into his life, again everything changed. How could he not remember her? She was him obsession. He needed her near him at all times. When she wasn’t there, he needed contact with her. She had become his everything, and honestly more important than his first love, hockey. The more time he spent with her, the more he was confident that his life was nothing without her. There wasn’t a moment where he thought this was going to end. He was going to do everything in his power to keep her.
How can they make this work when she was living in Silver Springs and he played hockey in Denver? She knew that their time together would come to an end, but he was making it hard and hard for her to walk away without a broken heart.
Received this ARC for my honest review and opinion
Xander has never wanted a relationship. He was never looking for one and always kept the woman he was with at arm’s length. But when Ivy walked into his life, again everything changed. How could he not remember her? She was him obsession. He needed her near him at all times. When she wasn’t there, he needed contact with her. She had become his everything, and honestly more important than his first love, hockey. The more time he spent with her, the more he was confident that his life was nothing without her. There wasn’t a moment where he thought this was going to end. He was going to do everything in his power to keep her.
How can they make this work when she was living in Silver Springs and he played hockey in Denver? She knew that their time together would come to an end, but he was making it hard and hard for her to walk away without a broken heart.
Received this ARC for my honest review and opinion
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved going back to Silver Springs filled with a small-town charm that had me completely devouring this swoony, feel-good, friends-to-lovers romance! Professional hockey player, Xander Hendrix, is hurt during a game, and decides to recover back home in Silver Springs to be closer to his family. Ivy Bensen is a physical therapist specializing in sports injuries and has been hired to rehab Xander's injury. Ivy is a family friend and has had a crush on Xander since he protected her against school bullies when they were younger. It pains them both that Xander doesn't remember their history, but his body does. He is wildy attracted to Ivy and becomes even more protective when he sees how her mother treats her. Ivy tries to keep their relationship professional, but their fiery chemistry is too strong to ignore. They start building a more fun and intimate relationship as they work hard on his recovery. Their family and friends are excited for their new relationship as well. But as Xander heals, and is ready to return to the team, will they be able to make their new love work when they are states away? I fell hard for Xander and Ivy, they challenge each other, their banter is fun, and their chemistry is off the charts. Ivy was strong, resilient and caring, making her perfect for Xander who is so sweet, protective and swoony as he showed Ivy she was worthy of love. I also adored the found-family dynamic with all their loving and supportive friends and family who made this story even more fun and authentic. This is a beautiful story filled with humor, heart and heat that was completely addicting.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What About Us by Kristen Proby is a deeply touching, small-town friends-to-lovers hockey romance set in the beloved Montana world of the Silver Springs series. The story is brought brilliantly to life through an exceptional cast of narrators—led by Savannah Thomas and Liam Cortright alongside Sebastian York, Samantha Brentmoor, Stella Hunter, Jason Clarke, Connor Crais, Avery Caris, and Kat Auden—who add incredible emotional depth and richness to the characters.
The plot centers on Ivy, a strong, independent woman who works a demanding job by day and keeps her mother's sports bar alive by night, all while dealing with an emotionally abusive mother. Years ago, Xander Hendrix was the only person who protected her from bullies and made her feel seen. Now a superstar hockey player returning to their hometown of Silver Springs to recover from an injury, Xander doesn't initially remember her. For Ivy, having followed his career from afar, working as his physical therapist brings an immediate mix of longing and emotional whiplash as they are thrown into intense daily proximity.
What begins as a professional rehabilitation journey quickly evolves as Xander reveals himself to be the ultimate "marshmallow" hero whose love language is acts of service. Completely unimpressed by his wealth or fame, Ivy grounds him, while Xander steps in to help her pick up the pieces as her fragile life begins to unravel. Filled with heart-melting care, sizzling chemistry, a fantastic supporting cast, and a brilliant future epilogue, this unforgettable sports romance leaves readers completely enchanted.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The plot centers on Ivy, a strong, independent woman who works a demanding job by day and keeps her mother's sports bar alive by night, all while dealing with an emotionally abusive mother. Years ago, Xander Hendrix was the only person who protected her from bullies and made her feel seen. Now a superstar hockey player returning to their hometown of Silver Springs to recover from an injury, Xander doesn't initially remember her. For Ivy, having followed his career from afar, working as his physical therapist brings an immediate mix of longing and emotional whiplash as they are thrown into intense daily proximity.
What begins as a professional rehabilitation journey quickly evolves as Xander reveals himself to be the ultimate "marshmallow" hero whose love language is acts of service. Completely unimpressed by his wealth or fame, Ivy grounds him, while Xander steps in to help her pick up the pieces as her fragile life begins to unravel. Filled with heart-melting care, sizzling chemistry, a fantastic supporting cast, and a brilliant future epilogue, this unforgettable sports romance leaves readers completely enchanted.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
** Audio Review **
All the feels! What About Us by Kristen Proby was a sweet and emotional small-town romance that simply did crazy good things to my heart. I couldn’t get enough of Ivy and Xander’s friends to lovers mixed with he falls first and hard vibes that had me completely smitten with this couple. Kristen always knows how to write one swoon-worthy MMC, and FMC who is not afraid to go after her dreams.
Savannah Thomas and Liam Cortright perform this audiobook in duet-style narration, and these two perfectly embodied all things Ivy and Xander. Savannah’s soft, expressive voice conveyed Ivy’s anxiety while showcasing her love for her job and her desires for Xander. Liam’s warm, soothing timbre encompassed Xander’s charm and protective demeanor, delivering everything Ivy needed. Both narrators created a magnetic chemistry between Ivy and Xander which made me melt. Sebastian York, Samantha Brentmoor, Stella Hunter, Kat Auden, Avery Caris, Jason Clarke, and Connor Crais round out this stellar multicast.
Overall, I LOVED this book. If you are a fan of a small town romance with a hot hunky hockey player, a passionate physical therapist, reuniting rehab, a crappy mother, found family, close proximity, grand gestures, private box spice, fancy galas, intimate conversations, love declarations, new art studios, Cally the cat, new job opportunities, more steamy times, and a HEA that will heal your heart, then you will love Ivy and Xander’s story. I always look forward to more from Kristen Proby.
All the feels! What About Us by Kristen Proby was a sweet and emotional small-town romance that simply did crazy good things to my heart. I couldn’t get enough of Ivy and Xander’s friends to lovers mixed with he falls first and hard vibes that had me completely smitten with this couple. Kristen always knows how to write one swoon-worthy MMC, and FMC who is not afraid to go after her dreams.
Savannah Thomas and Liam Cortright perform this audiobook in duet-style narration, and these two perfectly embodied all things Ivy and Xander. Savannah’s soft, expressive voice conveyed Ivy’s anxiety while showcasing her love for her job and her desires for Xander. Liam’s warm, soothing timbre encompassed Xander’s charm and protective demeanor, delivering everything Ivy needed. Both narrators created a magnetic chemistry between Ivy and Xander which made me melt. Sebastian York, Samantha Brentmoor, Stella Hunter, Kat Auden, Avery Caris, Jason Clarke, and Connor Crais round out this stellar multicast.
Overall, I LOVED this book. If you are a fan of a small town romance with a hot hunky hockey player, a passionate physical therapist, reuniting rehab, a crappy mother, found family, close proximity, grand gestures, private box spice, fancy galas, intimate conversations, love declarations, new art studios, Cally the cat, new job opportunities, more steamy times, and a HEA that will heal your heart, then you will love Ivy and Xander’s story. I always look forward to more from Kristen Proby.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the pleasure of listening to this book and all I have to say is….Pure perfection! This is book two in the Sliver Springs series and I am sooo darn invested!! This time we had Ivy and Xander. Xander is a Professional hockey player who is out with an injury and he needs a lot of physical therapy to get back in the game. Ivy happens to live in the adorable small town Xander is from…she has been assigned to be his therapist..and she is freaking out. Ivy has always had a crush on him and knows he doesn’t feel the same way..how embarrassing! She also has always envied a big loving family as she only has her mother…who is anything but nice. This well layered book took us on a beautiful journey. A journey that these characters totally deserved. Xander and Ivy had incredible depth and told a heck of a story. A story about finding your person when you least expect it, about being open to others and learning what unconditional love truly is. These two had sassy banter and hotter than hot chemistry…and I was Here for it. Ivy was mistreated most of her life and I truly Swooned at how much Xander wanted to take care of her…love her. This beautiful story did not disappoint and I could not be more excited for book three! This family has truly won a spot in my heart and I have to know where this story is going next. This audio book was a pleasure to listen to and Liam and Savannah did a beyond amazing job telling Xander and Ivy’s story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
am so thrilled that I was able to listen and read to What About Us by Kristen Proby early. Xander and Ivy are everything I wanted them to be and more!
Xander Hendrix is a professional hockey player for the Denver Fury, but his roots are in Silver Springs, Montana.
After a terrible knee injury brings him to recover at home. He (re) meets Ivy. They actually went to high school together and have a little bit of history that Xander doesn’t really remember because of some head injuries in hockey.
Ivy just so happens to be the physical therapist assigned to Xanders case. Honestly, the way Xander becomes so down bad for Ivy is the best.
Ivy has not had the easiest upbringing and her mom is the WORST HUMAN imaginable. Ivy has done so much to help her and it’s all for nothing.
Xander shows Ivy her worth and how worthy she is of love and a family. It is seriously the sweetest thing ever.
I don’t want to give too much away but I just love how they love on each other, the spice is spicing, the family is the best, and Xanders friends Cooper and Brittney are amazing.
Brittney is the absolute BEST hockey wife friend Ivy could ever have. And if you listen to the audio her accent is killer!
This is a must read for me. If you enjoy Kristen Proby you will LOVE their story! And I cannot wait for the next book! The epilogue kind of broke me a little, there is soooo much I want to know! You’ll understand when you get there 😂
Xander Hendrix is a professional hockey player for the Denver Fury, but his roots are in Silver Springs, Montana.
After a terrible knee injury brings him to recover at home. He (re) meets Ivy. They actually went to high school together and have a little bit of history that Xander doesn’t really remember because of some head injuries in hockey.
Ivy just so happens to be the physical therapist assigned to Xanders case. Honestly, the way Xander becomes so down bad for Ivy is the best.
Ivy has not had the easiest upbringing and her mom is the WORST HUMAN imaginable. Ivy has done so much to help her and it’s all for nothing.
Xander shows Ivy her worth and how worthy she is of love and a family. It is seriously the sweetest thing ever.
I don’t want to give too much away but I just love how they love on each other, the spice is spicing, the family is the best, and Xanders friends Cooper and Brittney are amazing.
Brittney is the absolute BEST hockey wife friend Ivy could ever have. And if you listen to the audio her accent is killer!
This is a must read for me. If you enjoy Kristen Proby you will LOVE their story! And I cannot wait for the next book! The epilogue kind of broke me a little, there is soooo much I want to know! You’ll understand when you get there 😂
August 31, 2026
Thank you to Kristen and her team for the ALC/ARC!
Kristen is an auto buy/read author and this story is why! Emotional, sexy, sweet, funny and the best green flag MMC you ever did read. I absolutely LOVED everything about Xander and Ivy. Both characters are complex and relatable. They have chemistry that’s explosive, banter that just so witty, funny and sexy. The tension is high from the first time they see each other after all of the years Xander is away for Hockey.
And at first meeting again you can’t help but root for them. Yet as their relationship develops you see their struggles and get to watch them grow with each other. They both have faults, yet figure out how to communicate after stumbling a little. It’s raw, honest and just had me grinning so much. The way Xander just takes care of Ivy you can tell how much he cares for her it’s even in the smallest of details. He gives her a water bottle and that damn thing is mentioned so much, and it’s because he notices her with it all of the time. It brings him joy to bring her joy. And don’t even get me started on his one liners! He’s one smooth dude. Ivy is strong, compassionate, intelligent and knows what she worth. I just absolutely fell in love with them!
Savannah Thomas and Liam Cortright narrate and they were a fucking fantastic duo! This is done with a full amazing cast, but our leads just absolutely blew me away!
Read: ALC 🎧/EARC 📱
MMC: Xander
FMC: Ivy
Spice: 2🌶️
Tropes:
Hockey
Athlete/PT
Work Place(ish)
Small Town
Found Family
Who Hurt You
Friends to Lovers
Protective MMC
PP
Kristen is an auto buy/read author and this story is why! Emotional, sexy, sweet, funny and the best green flag MMC you ever did read. I absolutely LOVED everything about Xander and Ivy. Both characters are complex and relatable. They have chemistry that’s explosive, banter that just so witty, funny and sexy. The tension is high from the first time they see each other after all of the years Xander is away for Hockey.
And at first meeting again you can’t help but root for them. Yet as their relationship develops you see their struggles and get to watch them grow with each other. They both have faults, yet figure out how to communicate after stumbling a little. It’s raw, honest and just had me grinning so much. The way Xander just takes care of Ivy you can tell how much he cares for her it’s even in the smallest of details. He gives her a water bottle and that damn thing is mentioned so much, and it’s because he notices her with it all of the time. It brings him joy to bring her joy. And don’t even get me started on his one liners! He’s one smooth dude. Ivy is strong, compassionate, intelligent and knows what she worth. I just absolutely fell in love with them!
Savannah Thomas and Liam Cortright narrate and they were a fucking fantastic duo! This is done with a full amazing cast, but our leads just absolutely blew me away!
Read: ALC 🎧/EARC 📱
MMC: Xander
FMC: Ivy
Spice: 2🌶️
Tropes:
Hockey
Athlete/PT
Work Place(ish)
Small Town
Found Family
Who Hurt You
Friends to Lovers
Protective MMC
PP
August 31, 2026
Xander and Ivy were fire and ice, meaning they were the perfect complement for each other. What About Us had me from the first sentence to the last as Kristen Proby continues to tell us stories from Montana. Xander Hendrix is a hot shot hockey player dealing with an injury and realizing that home is only place he wants to be to heal. His healing comes with the need for a physical therapist in the form of Ivy Benson. Ivy has known Xander since high school, when he was her protector from bullies; too bad Xander doesn’t remember that. What he does know is that Ivy is fantastic at her job and makes him crazy in all the ways. The way he wants to do things for her, be around her and know her is so different for him; he’s the guy that never believes that women stay. But Ivy is different. As fierce and amazing as she can be, Ivy is also tired and struggling to juggle all her balls and deal with a crazy abusive mom. When Xander witnesses just how much Ivy is dealing with he could run, but he doesn’t and I think it was just as surprising for him as it was for Ivy. The way Xander took care of her, those acts of service to show his love; Ivy both loved it and struggled to accept. These two just fit each other even when they tried to get in each other’s way. So glad they had a host of supportive friends and family to help them through. Just a beautiful story and I can’t wait for whatever comes next in Silver Springs.
August 30, 2026
Small Town
Found Family
Hockey Romance
Athlete x Physical Therapist
Who Hurt You
He Falls First
Protective MMC
Cat Dad
Dual POV - 1st person
Duet multicast narration - Liam Courtright, Savannah Thomas, Sebastian York, Samantha Brentmoor, Stella Hunter, Jason Clarke, Connor Crais, Avery Caris, Kat Auden
WHAT a stellar cast! This line up of narrators gave this story amazing life and feels.
Book #2 Silver Springs series
Kristen Proby is fastly becoming a favorite auto buy author for me. This series is so swoon worthy I could scream. Xander and Ivy are so sweet, adorable, and all-around perfection. Xander is a star hockey player that gets injured and is in need of physical therapy, but he wants to do it in his hometown. The team agrees and hires a local therapist, enter Ivy. She has had a massive crush on Xander since high school and now has to help him rehab his injury. Ivy is dealing with so much because of her mother and her home situation. Xander steps up once again to protect and take care of her. I truly adore him, he is perfection in book boyfriend form. He has his own issues stemming from past trauma as well but together Ivy and Xander can be strong and support each other.
If your a fan of small town, swoony, and steamy romance this book and series is for you!
Thank you Kristen Proby for this eARC/ALC.
Found Family
Hockey Romance
Athlete x Physical Therapist
Who Hurt You
He Falls First
Protective MMC
Cat Dad
Dual POV - 1st person
Duet multicast narration - Liam Courtright, Savannah Thomas, Sebastian York, Samantha Brentmoor, Stella Hunter, Jason Clarke, Connor Crais, Avery Caris, Kat Auden
WHAT a stellar cast! This line up of narrators gave this story amazing life and feels.
Book #2 Silver Springs series
Kristen Proby is fastly becoming a favorite auto buy author for me. This series is so swoon worthy I could scream. Xander and Ivy are so sweet, adorable, and all-around perfection. Xander is a star hockey player that gets injured and is in need of physical therapy, but he wants to do it in his hometown. The team agrees and hires a local therapist, enter Ivy. She has had a massive crush on Xander since high school and now has to help him rehab his injury. Ivy is dealing with so much because of her mother and her home situation. Xander steps up once again to protect and take care of her. I truly adore him, he is perfection in book boyfriend form. He has his own issues stemming from past trauma as well but together Ivy and Xander can be strong and support each other.
If your a fan of small town, swoony, and steamy romance this book and series is for you!
Thank you Kristen Proby for this eARC/ALC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I could not put this book down. It will shock no one that I loved Book 2 in the Silver Springs series by Kristen Proby. Her entire Montana world is one of my favorite fictional places to spend time. But Xander and Ivy will always hold a special place in my heart. This is a hockey/sports romance with an injured athlete and his physical therapist. Ivy is strong and independent, working full time by day and then keeping her mom’s sports bar alive by night. On top of that, she’s dealing with the worst excuse for a mother I’ve seen on page in some time. She is exactly what Xander needs, from being a PT to not caring a single bit about his money or fame. Xander is one of the best examples of a marshmallow MMC I’ve ever read. He loves with everything he has, whether it’s his siblings, his neice, his dad, and then her. His love language is acts of service and he is quite possibly the best there is at it. Even from afar and angry, he’s always looking out for her. Kristen Proby has made the leap to hockey romance and nails it in the first go. I’m gonna throw it out there now…I need a Coop and Britney prequel novella please and thank you! I am so here for Xander and Ivy and will be rereading this one for years to come. And y’all…that epilogue into the future? More please!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Xander & Ivy
Arc/ alc review
The way these books are teased to us before we even dive in gives me life! From the little snippet we got i knew this was a must read.
I fully enjoyed the full cast audio and cannot wait for more, I thought they nailed the charcaters personalities so well.
My heart absolutely broke for Ivy, for all that she has been through, I was so glad that she finally had someone like Xander to truly love her for who she was and treat her like the Queen she is.
Xander was the perfect balance of protective and possessive and i loved that he proved over and over just how worth whole Ivy was of being loved!
A cute, romantic read that will have you wanting more!
- Hockey Player / Athletic Trainer
- Small Town
- Forced Proximity
- Friends to Lovers
- Who Hurt You
- Possessive and Protective MMC
4.5⭐️ 2.5🌶
Bonus Points for the found family. I love each one if the siblings and can honestly say im excited for each of their stories!
I need to know more about Ava's story, the little crumbs we have been fed have me dying for her book! Why does she want to marry Chad so badly?! Cannot wait to find out!
Thankyou to Kristen for the opportunity to read this one early 🫶🏻
Arc/ alc review
The way these books are teased to us before we even dive in gives me life! From the little snippet we got i knew this was a must read.
I fully enjoyed the full cast audio and cannot wait for more, I thought they nailed the charcaters personalities so well.
My heart absolutely broke for Ivy, for all that she has been through, I was so glad that she finally had someone like Xander to truly love her for who she was and treat her like the Queen she is.
Xander was the perfect balance of protective and possessive and i loved that he proved over and over just how worth whole Ivy was of being loved!
A cute, romantic read that will have you wanting more!
- Hockey Player / Athletic Trainer
- Small Town
- Forced Proximity
- Friends to Lovers
- Who Hurt You
- Possessive and Protective MMC
4.5⭐️ 2.5🌶
Bonus Points for the found family. I love each one if the siblings and can honestly say im excited for each of their stories!
I need to know more about Ava's story, the little crumbs we have been fed have me dying for her book! Why does she want to marry Chad so badly?! Cannot wait to find out!
Thankyou to Kristen for the opportunity to read this one early 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy
Book 2 in the silver springs series follows Xander and ivy. He’s a hockey player and she is his physical therapist….and yes I adored this story.
The love story between the two was sweet and it was so good. Ivy had never really had anyone show up for her, and Xander did that for her which was really sweet and loving.
And Xander was such an amazing guy, he was kind and caring. And I loved that they knew each other basically their whole lives and Xander was there for her back then even if things are little fuzzy for him to remember.
They both had scars from their past caused by a parent that has left each one of them hesitant to love another person fully, but the connection between the two is just to strong for either one to walk away.
This was a slow burn, friends to lovers (kind of ) not to mention she is his physical therapist but it has found family vibes and small town vibes that just makes your heart fall in love with the whole story.
What else that also liked about this book is that it also focuses on deeper and heavier elements like anxiety, other medical issues and a few other topics which was all written so well.
All around great addition to the series, loved the story, the loved characters and excited to read the next one.
The love story between the two was sweet and it was so good. Ivy had never really had anyone show up for her, and Xander did that for her which was really sweet and loving.
And Xander was such an amazing guy, he was kind and caring. And I loved that they knew each other basically their whole lives and Xander was there for her back then even if things are little fuzzy for him to remember.
They both had scars from their past caused by a parent that has left each one of them hesitant to love another person fully, but the connection between the two is just to strong for either one to walk away.
This was a slow burn, friends to lovers (kind of ) not to mention she is his physical therapist but it has found family vibes and small town vibes that just makes your heart fall in love with the whole story.
What else that also liked about this book is that it also focuses on deeper and heavier elements like anxiety, other medical issues and a few other topics which was all written so well.
All around great addition to the series, loved the story, the loved characters and excited to read the next one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Heart. Heat. Found family. And Xander freaking Hendrix.
Holy crap, this book had ALL the feels. Xander and Ivy were everything I hoped for and somehow still more than I expected.
Xander is the perfect mix of protective, sweet, sexy, and total golden retriever when it comes to Ivy. The little things this man does?! Buying her a desk because he doesn’t like her sitting on the floor to work. Feeding his girl carbs. Becoming a cat dad. And when that protective side comes out? YUM.
But underneath all the swoony moments and chemistry, there is so much heart in this story. I loved watching this family rally around each other and the way Kristen Proby completely pulls you into Silver Springs. Add in familiar faces from previous books and it feels like coming home.
I listened to the ALC narrated by Liam Courtwright and Savannah Thomas, and they were phenomenal. Savannah is already a favorite of mine, but Liam was a first-time listen and WOW. He absolutely nailed Xander. The emotion, protectiveness, humor, passion, all of it.
I’ve devoured Kristen Proby’s backlist over the last year, and now I basically wait on bated breath for every new release. Apparently these books are crack to me.
Holy crap, this book had ALL the feels. Xander and Ivy were everything I hoped for and somehow still more than I expected.
Xander is the perfect mix of protective, sweet, sexy, and total golden retriever when it comes to Ivy. The little things this man does?! Buying her a desk because he doesn’t like her sitting on the floor to work. Feeding his girl carbs. Becoming a cat dad. And when that protective side comes out? YUM.
But underneath all the swoony moments and chemistry, there is so much heart in this story. I loved watching this family rally around each other and the way Kristen Proby completely pulls you into Silver Springs. Add in familiar faces from previous books and it feels like coming home.
I listened to the ALC narrated by Liam Courtwright and Savannah Thomas, and they were phenomenal. Savannah is already a favorite of mine, but Liam was a first-time listen and WOW. He absolutely nailed Xander. The emotion, protectiveness, humor, passion, all of it.
I’ve devoured Kristen Proby’s backlist over the last year, and now I basically wait on bated breath for every new release. Apparently these books are crack to me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What About Us by Kristen Proby is the second installment in her "A Silver Springs" series. This book focuses on Xander Hendrix — we've enjoyed glimpses of the Hendrix family in the Blackwells of Montana series and in her last release, Pretty Little Scars — and Ivy Benson, the female lead. The story is filled with real situations, great family members, not-so-wonderful family members, new besties, Ivy finding herself, Xander healing, and just a lot of really good storytelling.
There is so much to love about this book. Xander is a hot, sexy hockey star, and he's so focused on Ivy and so good to her that you can't help but love him and root for him. Ivy is talented, hardworking, and beautiful, but she's also the daughter of an alcoholic mom who treats her badly, and she struggles with anxiety that causes her to initially doubt her own worth.
There's found family, small-town love, a hero who falls first, and of course, a hockey romance to round it all out. I enjoyed this book so much that I can't wait to read more about the family. It was a lot of fun and a really quick read.
Bonus points for the author — there's a Bonus Epilogue available set five years later, and what a fun, short look into their future. I really enjoyed this little peek into their day down the road.
There is so much to love about this book. Xander is a hot, sexy hockey star, and he's so focused on Ivy and so good to her that you can't help but love him and root for him. Ivy is talented, hardworking, and beautiful, but she's also the daughter of an alcoholic mom who treats her badly, and she struggles with anxiety that causes her to initially doubt her own worth.
There's found family, small-town love, a hero who falls first, and of course, a hockey romance to round it all out. I enjoyed this book so much that I can't wait to read more about the family. It was a lot of fun and a really quick read.
Bonus points for the author — there's a Bonus Epilogue available set five years later, and what a fun, short look into their future. I really enjoyed this little peek into their day down the road.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book two of Sliver Springs and I am SOOO darn invested!! 😭📚
Xander is a professional hockey player out with an injury, needing serious PT to get back on the ice… enter Ivy, his new therapist and small-town local who’s been quietly crushing on him for YEARS, fully convinced he’d never look twice. THE ANGST. THE PINING. 🥹
Add in a lifetime of longing for the loving family she never had (thanks to a mother who is anything but kind), and Ivy is a character you can’t help but root for. My heart absolutely broke for her, and watching Xander finally see her and love her like the queen she is?? I’m SOBBING. 🤍
Both of them carry scars from parents who failed them, both terrified to fully hand their hearts over again… but the connection between them is just too strong to walk away from. 🔥
And can we talk about Ava for TWO SECONDS because those crumbs have me FERAL for her book 👀
🎧 Narrated by Liam Cortright & Savannah Thomas with Sebastian York, Stella Hunter, Jason Clarke & Connor Crais — the chemistry is UNMATCHED.
Things to know
Full cast narration, dual pov, small town, found family, he falls first, protective mmc, athlete x physical therapist, hockey romance, friends to lovers
Xander is a professional hockey player out with an injury, needing serious PT to get back on the ice… enter Ivy, his new therapist and small-town local who’s been quietly crushing on him for YEARS, fully convinced he’d never look twice. THE ANGST. THE PINING. 🥹
Add in a lifetime of longing for the loving family she never had (thanks to a mother who is anything but kind), and Ivy is a character you can’t help but root for. My heart absolutely broke for her, and watching Xander finally see her and love her like the queen she is?? I’m SOBBING. 🤍
Both of them carry scars from parents who failed them, both terrified to fully hand their hearts over again… but the connection between them is just too strong to walk away from. 🔥
And can we talk about Ava for TWO SECONDS because those crumbs have me FERAL for her book 👀
🎧 Narrated by Liam Cortright & Savannah Thomas with Sebastian York, Stella Hunter, Jason Clarke & Connor Crais — the chemistry is UNMATCHED.
Things to know
Full cast narration, dual pov, small town, found family, he falls first, protective mmc, athlete x physical therapist, hockey romance, friends to lovers
September 2, 2026
Wow!! This is most definitely a new favorite book by Kristen Proby! XANDER HENDRIX. Whew, I love him. I'm an act of service girl and let me tell you, this man DELIVERED. He had me swooning like nobody's business. And Ivy?! That girl is amazing. After all the crap her absolutely terrible mom put her through she was so kind and incredibly strong. She's spent all of her life feeling underappreciated and constantly being torn down so seeing Xander come in and show her how it feels to be truly adored and loved was just beautiful.
Can we take a moment to discuss how much I LOVE this Hendrix family!! GIVE ME MORE!! And also loved the friendship Ivy developed with Brit. She definitely needed someone like Brit in her life.
🎧 This is a full cast narration with Liam Cortright and Savannah Thomas as Xander & Ivy. Then we have Jason Clarke, Samantha Brentmoor, Sebastian York, Stella Hunter, Avery Caris, Kat Auden and Connor Crais. Talk about a LINE UP!!! But honestly, Liam and Savannah knocked this one out of the park. Gimme more of these two together because they were absolute perfection. 10/10 recommend!!!
Thank you Kristen Proby & Team for this e-ARC/ALC. All opinions are my own.
Can we take a moment to discuss how much I LOVE this Hendrix family!! GIVE ME MORE!! And also loved the friendship Ivy developed with Brit. She definitely needed someone like Brit in her life.
🎧 This is a full cast narration with Liam Cortright and Savannah Thomas as Xander & Ivy. Then we have Jason Clarke, Samantha Brentmoor, Sebastian York, Stella Hunter, Avery Caris, Kat Auden and Connor Crais. Talk about a LINE UP!!! But honestly, Liam and Savannah knocked this one out of the park. Gimme more of these two together because they were absolute perfection. 10/10 recommend!!!
Thank you Kristen Proby & Team for this e-ARC/ALC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have read all of Kristen Proby's books, and they keep getting better and better! I love how interconnected many of her series are to one another, and I love seeing past characters come to visit since many of the towns are so close to one another.
Xander and Ivy have such a sweet and emotional history, and I love getting to see them become friends and then lovers. Xander is an injured professional hockey player, while Ivy is his new physical therapist. I enjoyed that the conflict in this book isn't what I had expected it to be, and that this was not considered a "forbidden romance". Ivy has an upsetting past, and I love seeing her open up to Xander and learn to set boundaries and stand up for herself more throughout their story.
Xander offers such great support and tries to not just "fix the problems" but also be there for her.
Their story was so sweet and emotional, and I love seeing them learn to be in relationships and communicate effectively. I also love that Ivy is able to join his family so smoothly and love how close they all become.
I definitely recommend this book, and I love seeing their HEA.
Xander and Ivy have such a sweet and emotional history, and I love getting to see them become friends and then lovers. Xander is an injured professional hockey player, while Ivy is his new physical therapist. I enjoyed that the conflict in this book isn't what I had expected it to be, and that this was not considered a "forbidden romance". Ivy has an upsetting past, and I love seeing her open up to Xander and learn to set boundaries and stand up for herself more throughout their story.
Xander offers such great support and tries to not just "fix the problems" but also be there for her.
Their story was so sweet and emotional, and I love seeing them learn to be in relationships and communicate effectively. I also love that Ivy is able to join his family so smoothly and love how close they all become.
I definitely recommend this book, and I love seeing their HEA.
August 28, 2026
Oh my gosh i absolutely loved everything about this audiobook! Liam Cortright and Savannah Thomas were amazing and with a full cast with added narration with Sebastian York, Samantha Brentmoor, Stella Hunter, Jason Clarke, Connor Crais, Avery Caris and Kat Auden!
This is hands down my favorite book by Kristen! These characters were perfection. Xander is the most perfection boyfriend even if he had issues with women because of how his mom left his family when he was just 4. And oh my poor Ivy. She had the worst upbringing with her mom who is the absolute worst mother but Xander was there for her even when they weren’t even technically together yet. These two have such amazing chemistry. Ivy’s character growth so amazing to see. She deals with some horrible anxiety and Xander is there for her always whether it’s to ask what she needs, he BRUSHES her HAIR! Swoon 🫠🫠, he draws a bath for her. He is literally perfect!
Tropes
Childhood crush
Found family
Forced proximity
Anixety rep
Hockey player x physical therapist
Insta love
Small town
Thank you Kristen for the ARC/ALC!
This is hands down my favorite book by Kristen! These characters were perfection. Xander is the most perfection boyfriend even if he had issues with women because of how his mom left his family when he was just 4. And oh my poor Ivy. She had the worst upbringing with her mom who is the absolute worst mother but Xander was there for her even when they weren’t even technically together yet. These two have such amazing chemistry. Ivy’s character growth so amazing to see. She deals with some horrible anxiety and Xander is there for her always whether it’s to ask what she needs, he BRUSHES her HAIR! Swoon 🫠🫠, he draws a bath for her. He is literally perfect!
Tropes
Childhood crush
Found family
Forced proximity
Anixety rep
Hockey player x physical therapist
Insta love
Small town
Thank you Kristen for the ARC/ALC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have yet to meet a hockey player that I have loved and Xander Hendrix is right up there with some of the best MMC’s. Most importantly though, I love an FMC that works in the medical field but love that she is a physical therapist even more. I have a soft spot for those that are out there in the medical field trying to help those of us that get hurt work through the pain. But this story is so much more than just Xander and his recovery and there are moments where the tears flow. Ivy is working herself so hard and the moment that Xander realizes it, knows he needs to step in to help her since she is helping him heal. Yet it isn’t just that one thing, it is learning about someone who you have always had a crush on and knowing that he is human even when you think that he is a superhero. It is in those moments that falling in love is the most beautiful thing. Ivy and Xander have obstacles to overcome both personally and together and knowing that it isn’t easy makes you appreciate them even more. Kristen knows how to write truly hilarious family chats but also swoony moments.
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