Falling for Jillian (Love Under the Big Sky Book 3)

I read this book in preparation for the newest book coming in the series. Totally love Kristen’s writing of family sagas with strong characters, HOT alpha males, witty and strong women. Both Zack King and Jillian Sullivan have enough baggage to fill a 747 cargo hold (per Jillian). Zack is a US Army veteran dealing with a crazy ex-wife, a son learning to love his dad again, and adjusting to civilian life. Jillian Sullivan recently moved back to Cunningham Falls to be close to family and having a very difficult time dealing with an ex-husband who cheated and emotionally was not good for Jillian. Slowly, Jillian and Zack connect with each other. They both declare their love and work toward being a family with Seth. Just as the new year arrives their love is tested by an unexpected pregnancy. Zack is reading because he can only see this as a repeat of what his ex-wife did to him 13 years ago. Jillian is devastated and afraid that she is no better than her mom. Jillian’s big brother Ty (Seducing Lauren) delivers a one man intervention with both. Can their love survive? Thrive? Zack steps up and shows everyone, the man that he truly is. Looking for an great read? Well, you won’t go wrong with any Kristen Proby book. Totally recommend them all.

Falling for Jillian is a gripping story about second chances, and how love heals all wounds. I loved the attention in this story not only to the couple, but also to how their relationship affected the hero's 12 year-old son. It's funny, in the romance genre there seems to be a glut of billionaires, powerful CEOs, rock stars, athletes, etc; but it's been a while since I've read an honest to good love story between two ordinary people. Falling for Jillian is a wonderful story in that regard. It is this authenticity that makes the story so poignant, raw and true.

First it is worth noting that although there is definitely some carryover of prior characters, each book in the Love Under the Big Sky Series can be read as a standalone. In that regard, although this is Book 3 in the series, this is the only book I have read; and I had no trouble following the story line as each book focuses on the love story of a different primary couple. This fact notwithstanding, I did get the sense that both Jillian and Zach had been introduced in prior books. Accordingly, if you plan to read the whole series, then it is best read or listened to in order.

Jillian Sullivan has not been lucky in love. Now divorced, she tried for years to get pregnant only to have her husband cheat on her. It is the news of her ex-husband's impending fatherhood that sends her packing back to Montana, where her best friend Cara lives.

Her unexpected reunion with Zach King, Cara's brother-in-law who Jillian once had a steamy one-night stand with, stirs up all kinds of feelings. But Zack hasn't had an easy time at love either. Having become a father as a teenager, only to find that when he left to the army to support his family, his wife maltreated their son, Seth; has had its devastating effects. He is now a single father and has vowed to make it up to Seth. Therefore any future love interest will need to love both him, and his now preteen son, in equal measure. He also, like many former soldiers, suffers with the haunting effects of PTSD.

Can Jillian and Zach possibly strike up a viable HEA under the weight of their past love life demons? Moreover, when their trust in each other is truly tested, will they choose love or resign themselves to the inevitability that love will always fail them?

Further bolstering this already great tale is the marvelous performance by Elizabeth Louise and Deacon Lee. The narration in this title is split by chapter depending on whose POV is being shared. Elizabeth Louise narrates the chapters told from Jillian perspective, which comprise a slightly larger majority of the chapters, and Deacon Lee those recounting Zack's.

Both Mr. Lee and Ms. Louise do a fabulous job of producing distinguishable character appropriate voices for each of the cast members in Falling for Jillian, thereby doing away with the need to rely on dialogue tags. Moreover, each giftedly communicates the particular emotion being enacted in each scene bringing it to life in a way that the print copy alone could never achieve. The narration therefore heightened the effect such that this title felt more like a movie, than a book.

Lovers of real world romances will not want to miss Falling for Jillian. Further adding to this already enticing package is the superb narration by Elizabeth Louise and Deacon Lee which makes this a great title to experience in audiobook format!

Source: Review copy provided in exchange for an honest review.

***A gifted copy was provided by NETGALLEY for an honest review***

Falling for Jillian is the third book in Kristen Proby's Love Under the Big Sky series. This is Jillian and Zach’s story. We met both Jillian in Loving Cara Book 1 & Zach is the twin brother of Josh from Loving Cara.

Jillian has known Zach pretty much her entire life since he is best friends with her brother. She has come back to town after her divorce and is slowly rebuilding her life. Zach has returned to town from the military and is working on his family's ranch with his brother.
There is serious sparks/chemistry between these two but they are both so unsure on how to proceed. Jillian has baggage from her childhood and divorce while Zach has guilt from being away from his son for so long while in the military. Also, there is some mention that Zach suffers from PTSD (military related). Zach's son Seth is a huge part of the relationship between Zach and Jillian. She was in love with Seth before Zach. This is , I believe, in part that Jillian suffered fertility problems in her relationship with her ex-husband and couldn’t conceive and this made her relationship with Seth even more special.
The story picks up with Zach and Jillian trying to forgot a particularly steamy evening they had together but they kept running into each other. **Sort of a Sticky Situation*** Zach wants to keep his space. Jillian is open but baffled by his actions because he does one thing and says another.
They finally decide to give in to their feelings and keep it casual. I liked that there was a build up to their feelings for each other. It didn't happen right away and it just happened like it would normally and they didn’t try to overdo things.
But as with all couples, things come to a halt when things get caught in translation and miscommunications. One of the reasons Jillian was wary of serious relationship was due to a big issue in her marriage. There is something that unexpectedly happens between Zach and Jillian and while she is happy, Zach's reaction is not what she expected. I do not want to give too much away but suffice to say, it takes some unexpected words to get the Zach to see things differently and to get these two back together.

This author wrote a terrific book and the characters have a wonderful real life feel. Loved the characters and how the author portrays the people and omg, I loved Zach’s son. He almost completely stole the book. He is adorable. I wish this wasn’t the last book in the series.
Although these titles MAY be read out of order, the LOVE UNDER THE BIG SKY series order is:
1. Loving Cara - Cara Donovan and Josh King's story
2. Seducing Lauren - Lauren Cunningham and (Josh's best friend) Ty Sullivan's story
3. Falling for Jillian - Jillian and (Ty's brother) Zach King's story

My rating 4.7 stars ****

After learning his cheating ex-husband is having a baby (with no other person than the woman he cheated with), after she struggled for years to get pregnant, Jillian moves to the small town where Cara, her best friend, is living and loving to start a new path.

Zach, being a veteran and finally at home, has his hands full dealing with PTSD, his teenage son and a b*** of an ex-wife.

Seeing like that, it's hard to think they could ever work, but they do, oh they definitely do!!

Zach ahs a lot (a lot!) of issues, but he is a family guy, he is loyal, hard worker, and he lives for his son! Jillian is sweet, honest, caring and has so much room for love and nurturing in her heart!

Seeing them connect, attach, grow feelings for each was so beautiful! It was a book full of hope and love, full of miracles and passion! It was a warm hug!

Falling for Jillian takes place a a few months after a one night stand turned bad the next morning by misunderstandings. Jill is now back home from L.A and avoiding Zack at every opportunity she can. Zack, now retired from the Army, is home helping his brother with the ranch, raising his son, Seth. Tired of him and Jill avoiding each other he decides it's time for them to give each other a chance.

Jill has been hurt before, first by her parents and then her scumbag ex husband. It's hard for her to trust that people won't continue to let her down and not hurt her. Zack is also out of a bad marriage and it's hard for him to let go of the past and realize that not every woman is like is ex. They both have their issues but together they start to move past their problems. That is, until the past comes back...

This was definitely one of my favorite books by Kristen Proby. I loved Jill's character and how protective of Seth she was. After years of being mistreating she's become a strong heroine and has become pretty bad ass. Zack is just so yummy and a real alpha protector and I loved him. He's a wonderful dad and just made me swoon at times.

Overall, this is a very sweet romantic book and I loved all of the characters and how much they grew during the story. Definitely recommended for anyone in the mood for a swoon worthy man a kick ass heroine.

ARC kindly provided by Pocket Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Big loving family under the Montana sky, with lots of romance, and hunting past history are the makings of this touching story.
Jillian and Zack have chemistry, energy, magnetic pull to each other like no one else. They are drawn to each other, despite the miscommunication they had after a steamy night few months back. They are taking time to get to know each other, and they are burning up the sheets, yes, the heat level is high, but that wasn't the main focus, there was a lot story as well. The story of a two people, with lots of emotional baggage, and the road to the happily ever after is not easy. I loved how they shared their past history, hurt, and pain with each other. Seth, Zack's son is adorable, and the moments when he is sharing with Jillian were priceless, and touching. The abuse from the past was dealt with, talked and shared, and acknowledged.
The conflict that came between Jillian and Zack was a bit predictable, but I appreciate how it was played out, over time, but without drawing it out too long.
Some of the language was, in my opinion, unnecessary. I just didn't think it fit into the story.
The big family was inviting, they were fun, with great humor, and lots of love. The different aspects of the story brought layers of interest to it, and the story made an impact
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side

[...]

Falling for Jillian is the third installment in Kristen Proby’s Love Under the Big Sky series. It’s the story of the relationship between Zack King and Jillian Sullivan, which has been teased throughout the series. They had one night together, which only served to reawaken the ghosts of (bad)relationships past, as well as lots of hurt feelings and insecurities.

Though I really loved Cara and Lauren from the two previous books, I think that Jillian might be my favorite of the Love Under the Big Sky heroines. She has a strength that is her shield from the devastating hurt she has experienced in her life. It is has also made her very independent — which is French for stubbornness – something that Jillian had in spades, Jillian was a lioness. If she loved you, there was never any doubt that she was in your corner – she would be there when you needed her. As you come to understand the reasons why she is the way that she is, you cannot help but love her even that much more.

Zack? He is all cowboy and a damn sexy one at that. Though he and Josh are twins, Zack’s life experiences have made him somewhat different.. The events and people that hurt him, continued to color his view of the world, as well as how he would approach a potential relationship. Like Jillian, he is also very guarded with his heart, but he wants to give it to Jillian He was absolutely devoted to his son Seth – those moments with Seth were some of my favorite parts of the story.

Together, Zack and Jillian were a dynamic couple. I loved not only the affection that they shared for each other, but also the respect that they had for one another. Watching them learn each other and navigate the newness of their relationship – though it was sweet and at times, bumpy but you knew that they would be together. I loved their chemistry, which was so white hot, it would keep you toasty warm on a cold Montana night.

There was a word that kept running through my head as I read Falling for Jillian and that word was “FIERCE.” As in how fiercely Jillian guarded her heart. How fierce Zack’s feelings were for Jillian. Or how fiercely Jillian connected to Zack’s son Seth and how they readily accepted each other into their lives. Fierce was how much Zach and Jillian loved each other.

In each of her books, Kristen Proby gives us a little bit of herself. In this book and in this series, she has a given us a piece of her heart in the shape of Cunningham Falls. The town was beautifully idyllic and as a reader, you know that you are getting a glimpse at the Montana that Kristen knows and loves, which makes the story sweeter.

I adored Falling for Jillian for all these reasons and because it was a warts and all love story that just grabbed my heart. These characters were people that you could truly care about, or have a drink or share a meal. I think that’s the magic of Kristen Proby as storyteller, she creates a world and characters that feel genuine and welcoming to her readers. Enjoy Falling for Jillian!!

Jillian is returning home after her failed marriage. Life in LA is a far cry from the calm of Montana, but after her marriage falls apart due to her cheating ex; home is exactly where Jillian needs to be. Months prior she shared an incredible night with Zach, but it all ended the next morning. Now months later she can’t stop the way her body reacts to his.

Zach headed off to the military as a way to make a life for his family, when a unplanned baby comes along. Leaving Seth behind was a struggle, but he knew he had to do something to give himself a way to provide for his family. He just never expected the wickedness of the mother of his child. When Seth gets abandoned at the family ranch, Zach returns home for good. Burdened with the loss of his fellow soldiers and consumed by guilt of what his leaving caused his son to go through, Zach is making an attempt to undo the damage caused.

When the chemistry between Zach and Jillian can no longer be denied, these two just give into it. Jillian not only give Zach some peace, but she’s giving Seth something he never had before, a mother. Both have trust issues due to their past relationships, but when a surprise hits these two, it proves to be too much for Zach to deal with until some sense gets beat into him. But it might be too little too late.

So this series had started off with a bang. I loved Cara & Josh’s story and felt like Ty & Lo just didn’t live up to the first book. I was worried a little that I’d feel something similar to Jillian and Zach’s story – but I really enjoyed this one. I think the dynamic of having Seth in the picture added a different emotional pull. Gotta love a single dad.... it’s like hotness overload.

Although I really enjoyed this book, I think that we lost some aspect of their story because we got to know a little about both of them in the prior books. Although this series didn’t captivate me as much as the With Me In Seattle series, I still enjoyed these characters. I really enjoy the family aspect in Kristen’s writing. It was showcased with the Montgomery’s and it carried over to this series as well.

I discovered Kristen Proby when I read Baby it’s cold outside, and she got me since!
I really loved her way of telling stories.

You can totally read this one as a standalone, and I wasn’t lost in the story.
This one was very intense and passionate. This time we get to have Jillian and Zach’s story.
They had history and let’s just said that both carried heavy luggages from their past.

City girl and left heartbroken by her divorce, Jillian endured so much in her life and her past.
But when she decided to came back near her family she met Zach again and the tension between them was so palpable, a strong an intense feeling throughout the story.
Jillian is a very strong woman, standing for her opinions, sweet and caring about her family but terribly crushed, broken inside.

Zach is a veteran struggling with PTSD, with a son. He made everything in his power to provide the best for him and felt guilty for being away all these years in the army. His ex left scars on his son and he did his best to be a great and caring father.
He always had a thing for her, but with her away and her childhood sweetheart pregnant, she let her go away. But when she moved back here, he couldn’t get her out of his mind. She succeeded to capture his son’s heart (I loved their interactions) and also his, even if he wouldn’t.

I loved how these two get along through the story, naturally, like they belonged together.
Jillian was settling into his family and his heart. But when things became to be good, a promising future, Zach issues got in the way, leaving the ones he loved crushed by his actions. Jillian was maybe tough and strong but when it came to her heart, she could be very stubborn and didn’t follow her heart.

I was so captured by this story that I was adding and one clicked the first ones on my e-reader!
Kristen Proby wrote such amazing, passionate stories that I couldn’t not fall in love with them!I found a new fave series!

4.5 Stars

Falling for Jillian is the third book in Kristen Proby's Love Under the Big Sky series. It is the story of Jillian and Zach. Jillian is the best friend of Cara from Loving Cara Book 1 and Ty's sister from Seducing Lauren. Zach is the twin brother of Josh from Loving Cara which sets up the series.

Jillian has known Zach her entire life as he is best friends with her brother. She has recently moved back to town after her divorce and is slowly rebuilding her life. Zach has returned to town from the military and is working on his family's ranch with his brother.

What I love about Kristen Proby is that she intertwines her series and characters so if you have read the first two books you have seen the heat between Jillian and Zach. Don't worry if you haven't but this book will make you go back and read the first two.

There is serious heat between the two but they are both so gun shy. Jillian has baggage from her childhood and divorce while Zach has guilt from being away from his son for so long while in the military. Zach's son Seth is a huge part of the relationship between Zach and Jillian. She was in love with Seth before Zach. :)

The story picks up with Zach and Jillian trying to ignore a particularly steamy evening they had together but they keep running in to each other. AWKWARD! He wants to keep his distance. She is open but confused by his actions because he does one thing and says another.

They finally decide to give in to their chemistry and keep it casual. I liked that there was a build up to their feelings for each other. It didn't happen overnight and they both didn't try too much to over think it.

Zach is such a hottie! He called her "Sugar" and I melted! Their first Christmas together was so sweet!

As with all things, there are misunderstandings and assumptions. One of the reasons Jillian was wary of serious relationship was due to a big issue in her marriage. There is something that unexpectedly happens between Zach and Jillian and while she is happy, Zach's reaction is not what she expected. Let's just say it takes some harsh words from his 12 year old son, for him to get his head out of his ass! Zach's son helps these two figure out they are meant to be.

This series was Kristen's first with a major publisher. I loved her With Me Series and hoped that she wouldn't lose her steamy, passionate, smexy independent self with this series and she didn't! This series had a great build to this book. I hope that we will see more from some of the secondary characters introduced and keep up with couples from Love Under the Big Sky!

Review copy provided for an honest review.

Kristen Proby’s writing has a way of drawing readers in from the start, inviting them to become a member of the characters’ circle of friends and family, offering insights into their thoughts and feelings that only those within the inner sanctum would be allowed to understand. I felt that way in Proby’s With Me in Seattle series, and even though Falling for Jillian was my first read from her Love Under the Big Sky series, the same feelings consumed me as I became immersed into Zack, Seth, and Jillian’s lives.

Zack King is a single father and an Army veteran who carries scars so deep due to his rocky relationship with Seth’s mother and his memories of his time overseas and the losses he experienced that he’s extremely cautious when it comes to relationships, but ever since his and Jillian’s wild night together six months earlier, he can’t stop thinking about her and wanting her in ways that he’s never wanted anyone else.

Jillian Sullivan’s past relationship with her ex husband has also left deep wounds on her heart and psyche, so when she gave into her desire for Zack their first time together and he ended up walking out on her, she chalked it up as a learning experience and went about putting her life back together. But when Zack declares what he truly wants from Jilly, she can’t help but give into his desires because she definitely feels the same way.

Zack and Jillian’s story is a delightful and delectable read that illustrates what true friendship, family, and love look like. Zack is the complete hero package – dirty talker, hard worker, great father, and even when he messes up, readers can’t help but understand why he reacted the way he did to the things that transpired.

Jillian has been through hell, but she keeps fighting and that’s what will endear her to readers. She’s feisty and mouthy and demands respect, something that was hard for her to do when she was with her ex.

Zack and Jillian are the perfect match – the sexual spark between them is electric right from the start of the text and only continues to flame, and they’ll give each other the happy endings they both deserve if they can both get over their personal issues and allow themselves to fall.

One more aspect of the text and I assume the whole series that works so well is that the Montana landscape becomes its own character, offering comfort to both the characters and the readers and making the setting that much more inviting and enchanting, and when an author can do that, it makes for such a great story.

I’m definitely going to have to go back to read the first two books in the series now and see how Josh/Cora and Ty/Lauren began their stories, and I can’t wait to experience Proby’s characters and the setting all over again.

A complimentary copy was provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.

4.5 poison apples

Kristen Proby has a talent to write compelling alpha men and endearing heroines, who both tend to steal your hearts before you know it. “Falling for Jillian” was no different. And having read the first two books in Proby’s Love Under The Big Sky Series, I couldn’t wait to read Jillian and Zack’s story, which I did not disappoint.

We meet Jillian and Zack in the first novel of this series and continuously see snippets of their story throughout it. We learn that there is history between the two and even though the sparks fly shortly after they meet, misunderstandings and lack of communication keep them apart.

Zack King is a veteran who returned stateside not long before they meet. He is struggling with being a single father and the guilt he carries for leaving his son behind when he left for combat. After his ex abandons his son, Seth, at his parents ranch, Zack returns to take care of Seth. Zack now runs the Lazy K farm with his twin brother Josh and is repairing his relationship with his son, making sure that the damage done by Seth's mother is not having any lasting effect on him.

Jillian Sullivan, after being quite literally screwed over by her ex-husband, has just moved back to her hometown in Montana. She herself is still struggling with devastating news and the fact that she thinks Zack rejected her all those months ago.

Both Zack and Jillian are very stubborn and keep avoiding one another after what happened between them. That is, until Zack is done denying what he wants and finally makes his move. Though, like always it isn't smooth sailing after that. They face their own problems, which nearly drive them apart.

I love Zack and Jillian as both a couple and individually. They are both strong and stubborn and sometimes I wished I could have smacked them. Zack is the typical alpha we expect Proby to write. He's strong, protective, yet, can be sweet and sensitive at the same time. He is also a great dad and not afraid to show he cares. Jillian, I'm glad to say, is not only strong, she is also self-sufficient and has a backbone of steel. It is great to have a heroine who can take care of herself and is doesn't take any crap from anyone.

Even though some of the storyline is rather predictable, i couldn't put it down. It was intriguing and compelling. Also, the addition of sweet and funny Seth added not only another layer to the story, he also made it much more enjoyable. Overall, i enjoyed this sweet story immensely and I truly hope this won't be the last book in this series. Kristen Proby is one of those authors whose books you can one-click every time and not be disappointed!

"Falling for Jillian" is a really well written book about Jillian and Zack, who carry around a cargo load for issues. Jillian and her ex-husband tried for several years to start a family. Jillian went thru all types of medical treatments, in vitro to artificial insemination, but was unable to become pregnant and diagnosed with unexplained infertility. One day she comes home from work and finds the SOB in their bed with his secretary. After the divorce, she returns home to Montana to be near her family. She reconnects with Zack, a friend of her brother. Zack has his own issues. Zack returns home from the army, after serving several tours in the Middle East, suffering from PTSD. One day his wife drops their son Seth off, leaves, and files for divorce. Zack finds out Seth's life with his mother was a misery and feels guilty for leaving him with her. Many times, she would totally ignore Seth, other times her lovers would smack Seth around, and she would laugh about it. While Jill and Zach are together, Jill and Seth become close.

I am not going to go any further into description of the book. I will say, if you like contemporary romance novels that make you feel for the characters, you will really enjoy this book. "Falling for Jillian" made me laugh, cry, call Zack a dumb donkey, and cheered when Jill punched Kenzie (Zack's Ex-wife) in the face for treating Seth the way she did. I wanted to do the same.

The characters in the book are all really well developed and the scenes are written so well that you can actually imagine the scenery, and the love scenes do not get me started there (fan fan, lol).

Thank you Simon & Schuster Publishing for the ARC copy of "Falling for Jillian", I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next in this series.

Ms Proby, great job on the book. I will enjoy reading more of your books in the future.

Thank you for reading my review

With each of her new releases, the hopelessly romantic and deliciously naughty mind of Kristen Proby dreams up the type of fictional heroes that all other fictional heroes should aspire to be like. Yes, they are likely to make mistakes and may need a swift kick in the rear end to rectify said mistakes, but they are as close to perfect as they can possibly be. Case in point: Zack King, the male protagonist in the third book in the author’s Love Under the Big Sky series, Falling for Jillian. Zack is the strong, silent type with a rougher kind of charm, emotionally closed off after having been burned in the past. Similarly, Jillian Sullivan hasn’t had the best track record with past relationships, but together, Jill and Zack attempt to repair what’s broken between them.

It's always nice to have a leisurely, tension-filled buildup to any romance, but then again, the first two books in the series provided ample opportunity for Jill and Zack to dance around the idea of taking their friendship to the next level. Kristen Proby has a predilection for take-charge heroes, ones that know who and what they want and don't waste time in going full speed ahead toward the object of their desires. Once Zack sets his sights on Jillian, the couple wastes no time getting hot and heavy and the time that would otherwise be dedicated toward drawing out their sexual tension is instead allocated towards improving on their already explosive chemistry.

I'm not typically a proponent for insta-love, but I'll always make an exception for Kristen Proby because, with her books, it's not about the process of becoming a couple, but what happens once the two protagonists decide to commit to each other. Her romances are a mixture of modern and old-fashioned, with heroes and heroines that succeed as a couple because they maintain their easy friendship and continue to stoke the flames of their romance. The intimacy is derived not just from the consummation of a couple’s love but also from their everyday interactions – in-depth conversations, throwaway kisses, and seemingly mundane activities made special because they're part of the getting-to-know-each-other process. Like the rest of the Love Under the Big Sky series, Falling for Jillian is the perfect book for readers that are in the mood for a romantic, steamy read with a touch of angst along the road to Happily Ever After.

*complimentary copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review

First and foremost, I absolute adore and love Kristen Proby’s books. She has a way of making her readers feel and enjoy those butterfly feelings of love. And in her newest release, Falling For Jillian, the third book of Love Under The Big Sky Series, Ms. Proby has manage to capture the hearts of her readers once again with a book that is filled with love, family, friendship, and second chances.

Family and second chances at love and life played a big role in Falling for Jillian. This book really showcases a love so deep and a connection so strong between two people rediscovering the true meaning of love. In the first two books of the series, we were shown glimpses of sexual chemistry that were brewing between Zack and Jillian and finally when these two crossed the line from friends to lovers, things begins to heat up between them. Zack and Jillian were two broken people who were hurt in their previous relationship. Zack is a single father, whose ex-wife abandoned their 12 year old son, Seth. And Jillian is a recently divorced wife that is trying to move on with her life. Not only does Jillian had to deal with a painful betrayal in her marriage but she is dealing with scars that she has carried from her childhood that goes back from dealing with a neglectful mother. They say love can heal so can two broken people find a second chance at love?

Falling For Jillian was a book that was filled with laughter, honesty, family, friendship, love and second chances. It was one of those books, that has managed to make you feel like you were part of the gang of Love Under the Big Sky Series. And what I truly love about this book is that Ms. Proby always incorporates the whole cast of characters that readers of the series fell in love with from Josh, Cara, Ty, Lauren, Seth, Grace and Jacob. And as for the epilogue, I loved it. It definitely left a smile on my face and wanting more from Love Under the Big Sky Series. I honestly hope that there is one more book from this series and hopefully Hannah might get a shot at love. So if you are looking for a book filled with romance, little angst and full of chemistry then I highly recommend Falling for Jillian.

Reviewed by Michelle of Four Chicks Flipping Pages

My Thoughts:

I have enjoyed reading the Love Under the Big Sky Series, and getting to know this warm-hearted cast of characters. Each book in this series is better than the previous one, with my ultimate favorite being, Falling For Jillian. I was ready to go back to Cunningham Falls, Montana. This is a small town where the community is close-knit, mother nature is beautiful, and family means everything.

In Falling For Jillian, we get Zack (Josh's twin brother), and Jillian's story. Jillian lived in L.A. with her husband for several years. She struggled to get pregnant, which put a strain on their marriage. When Jillian, caught him in bed with his secretary, she filed for divorce, and decided to return to Cunningham Falls to be close to her best friend, Cara, and brother, Ty.

Zack is finally home from Iraq, and raising his son Seth, after Seth's mother Kensie abandoned him. Zack can't get Jillian off of his mind. They had a one night stand months ago, and he decides to pursue her. Things are going great with Jillian and Zack. He is falling in love with Jillian and adores the fact that she loves his son too. When an unexpected event challenges their relationship, they will both have to decide what they want.

Falling For Jillian was a romance that had me fully invested. I adored Jillian and Zack. They were adorable together, and had a great relationship. They could be sweet, sexy, and goofy with one another. Zack's son Seth has grown and matured a lot in this installment. My heart broke when him and Jillian bonded over their dysfunctional and abusive childhood's.

It was wonderful to reunite with Cara and Josh, Tyler and Lo, and Jeff and Nancy as well. There were many heartfelt moments shared among this group of friends and family. My favorite moments included their Christmas together, and the end of the story, which had me smiling from ear to ear. It was the perfect way to wrap up the, Love Under the Big Sky Series!

My Rating:

I give, Falling For Jillian, 4.5 Magical Christmas Memories, Sexy Love, Heartfelt Romance, and Happily Ever After Filled Stars!

I loved this book!! There is something about the way that Kristen Proby tells a story that I always know I'm going to love every word and this was absolutely true with Falling for Jillian! When Zack King and Jillian Sullivan had their one night together during Loving Cara something told me that it was only the beginning, and after dancing around each other for months it seems that was absolutely true. I loved that Zack seems to know he wants Jillian from the start of this book, and he goes after her. As they both share more than once, they have a lot of past baggage but while that isn't an absolute deterant it does rear its head a few times. But in spite of that these two have crazy good chemistry and a connection that seems to help them find a balance quickly. It helps that they already have a circle of friends and family that are happy to see them finally admit they fit well together. It is also the love and connection that Jillian has with Zack's son Seth that also makes this story one of my faves. The way she talks with Seth about her history with her abusive parents, and allows him to see that even though he had a crappy mom that doesn't have to be his future. I think I almost loved the love story that unfolded among these three as a family as I did the love between Jillian and Zack.

When Zack and Jillian get some shocking news it brings the past and present into an absolute collision of unknowns. Neither of them react well during or after, and while I understood their reactions I was yelling at them both!! One of the most satisfying and heartbreaking moments was when Kensie shows up at the ranch wanting Seth. Jillian's punching Kensie and putting her in her place followed by Seth's tears and Zack's overwhelming desire to never let them go, was so emotional! I don't know how Kristen wrote this without crying buckets, but I thought it was so real and necessary. I also loved how Ty, Jeff and Josh have an intervention with Zack, and how he in turn works with Seth to make their world with Jillian right once again.

Love, love, loved this latest Big Sky book and can't wait to see what's next in Cunningham Falls, Montana!!

I found my new 'pallet cleanser' series. Sometimes when I am reading books for review, I end up reading several of the same type of books in a row. Sometimes I end up reading several not-so-great books in a row. It's times like that when I need something to reset my mind. Something to cleanse all of the unpleasantness or sameness out of my brain. I have decided that Kristen Proby's Love Under the Big Sky series is just what is needed to set things back to normal for me.

I must start by saying that I did not read the first two books in the series. While there were times that I wish I had read the other character's stories, the author did a fantastic job of filling in the blanks so that I did not feel like I was missing any back story.

Jillian and Zack are both carrying around quite a bit of baggage from past relationships, but they don't let that keep them from jumping into something new. They were both unprepared for the way their respective pasts would interfere with their future together.

While, at first glance, Zack and Jillian seem to move rather rapidly into a relationship, it is evident that they have a history; a rather passionate history. I loved that they weren't afraid to just go for it.

Jillian is an awesome character. She is strong and successful and, despite the men in her past, she isn't afraid to tell Zack exactly what she wants or to send him packing when he couldn't do it. Deep down, Jillian knows her worth and doesn't settle for less than the best.

Zack is thoughtful and a little broody, but the biggest of all, Zack is a father. Zack's son Seth is absolutely one of the best child characters I've seen. I absolutely love him. Zack has missed a few years of being a full-time father to Seth, but that doesn't mean that he lets Seth do whatever he wants. He is an amazing father and I have to think that, beyond his overall sexiness, THIS is the reason that Jillian is so drawn to him.

If you are a fan of romance, cowboys, families, and close friends, THIS is a book for you.

First and foremost, I absolute adore and love Kristen Proby’s books. She has a way of making her readers feel and enjoy those butterfly feelings of love. And in her newest release, Falling For Jillian, the third book of Love Under The Big Sky Series, Ms. Proby has manage to capture the hearts of her readers once again with a book that is filled with love, family, friendship, and second chances.

Family and second chances at love and life played a big role in Falling for Jillian. This book really showcases a love so deep and a connection so strong between two people rediscovering the true meaning of love. In the first two books of the series, we were shown glimpses of sexual chemistry that were brewing between Zack and Jillian and finally when these two crossed the line from friends to lovers, things begins to heat up between them. Zack and Jillian were two broken people who were hurt in their previous relationship. Zack is a single father, whose ex-wife abandoned their 12 year old son, Seth. And Jillian is a recently divorced wife that is trying to move on with her life. Not only does Jillian had to deal with a painful betrayal in her marriage but she is dealing with scars that she has carried from her childhood that goes back from dealing with a neglectful mother. They say love can heal so can two broken people find a second chance at love?

Falling For Jillian was a book that was filled with laughter, honesty, family, friendship, love and second chances. It was one of those books, that has managed to make you feel like you were part of the gang of Love Under the Big Sky Series. And what I truly love about this book is that Ms. Proby always incorporates the whole cast of characters that readers of the series fell in love with from Josh, Cara, Ty, Lauren, Seth, Grace and Jacob. And as for the epilogue, I loved it. It definitely left a smile on my face and wanting more from Love Under the Big Sky Series. I honestly hope that there is one more book from this series and hopefully Hannah might get a shot at love. So if you are looking for a book filled with romance, little angst and full of chemistry then I highly recommend Falling for Jillian.

Reviewed by Michelle of Four Chicks Flipping Pages

My Thoughts:

I have enjoyed reading the Love Under the Big Sky Series, and getting to know this warm-hearted cast of characters. Each book in this series is better than the previous one, with my ultimate favorite being, Falling For Jillian. I was ready to go back to Cunningham Falls, Montana. This is a small town where the community is close-knit, mother nature is beautiful, and family means everything.

In Falling For Jillian, we get Zack (Josh's twin brother), and Jillian's story. Jillian lived in L.A. with her husband for several years. She struggled to get pregnant, which put a strain on their marriage. When Jillian, caught him in bed with his secretary, she filed for divorce, and decided to return to Cunningham Falls to be close to her best friend, Cara, and brother, Ty.

Zack is finally home from Iraq, and raising his son Seth, after Seth's mother Kensie abandoned him. Zack can't get Jillian off of his mind. They had a one night stand months ago, and he decides to pursue her. Things are going great with Jillian and Zack. He is falling in love with Jillian and adores the fact that she loves his son too. When an unexpected event challenges their relationship, they will both have to decide what they want.

Falling For Jillian was a romance that had me fully invested. I adored Jillian and Zack. They were adorable together, and had a great relationship. They could be sweet, sexy, and goofy with one another. Zack's son Seth has grown and matured a lot in this installment. My heart broke when him and Jillian bonded over their dysfunctional and abusive childhood's.

It was wonderful to reunite with Cara and Josh, Tyler and Lo, and Jeff and Nancy as well. There were many heartfelt moments shared among this group of friends and family. My favorite moments included their Christmas together, and the end of the story, which had me smiling from ear to ear. It was the perfect way to wrap up the, Love Under the Big Sky Series!

My Rating:

I give, Falling For Jillian, 4.5 Magical Christmas Memories, Sexy Love, Heartfelt Romance, and Happily Ever After Filled Stars!

I loved this book!! There is something about the way that Kristen Proby tells a story that I always know I'm going to love every word and this was absolutely true with Falling for Jillian! When Zack King and Jillian Sullivan had their one night together during Loving Cara something told me that it was only the beginning, and after dancing around each other for months it seems that was absolutely true. I loved that Zack seems to know he wants Jillian from the start of this book, and he goes after her. As they both share more than once, they have a lot of past baggage but while that isn't an absolute deterant it does rear its head a few times. But in spite of that these two have crazy good chemistry and a connection that seems to help them find a balance quickly. It helps that they already have a circle of friends and family that are happy to see them finally admit they fit well together. It is also the love and connection that Jillian has with Zack's son Seth that also makes this story one of my faves. The way she talks with Seth about her history with her abusive parents, and allows him to see that even though he had a crappy mom that doesn't have to be his future. I think I almost loved the love story that unfolded among these three as a family as I did the love between Jillian and Zack.

When Zack and Jillian get some shocking news it brings the past and present into an absolute collision of unknowns. Neither of them react well during or after, and while I understood their reactions I was yelling at them both!! One of the most satisfying and heartbreaking moments was when Kensie shows up at the ranch wanting Seth. Jillian's punching Kensie and putting her in her place followed by Seth's tears and Zack's overwhelming desire to never let them go, was so emotional! I don't know how Kristen wrote this without crying buckets, but I thought it was so real and necessary. I also loved how Ty, Jeff and Josh have an intervention with Zack, and how he in turn works with Seth to make their world with Jillian right once again.

Love, love, loved this latest Big Sky book and can't wait to see what's next in Cunningham Falls, Montana!!

I found my new 'pallet cleanser' series. Sometimes when I am reading books for review, I end up reading several of the same type of books in a row. Sometimes I end up reading several not-so-great books in a row. It's times like that when I need something to reset my mind. Something to cleanse all of the unpleasantness or sameness out of my brain. I have decided that Kristen Proby's Love Under the Big Sky series is just what is needed to set things back to normal for me.

I must start by saying that I did not read the first two books in the series. While there were times that I wish I had read the other character's stories, the author did a fantastic job of filling in the blanks so that I did not feel like I was missing any back story.

Jillian and Zack are both carrying around quite a bit of baggage from past relationships, but they don't let that keep them from jumping into something new. They were both unprepared for the way their respective pasts would interfere with their future together.

While, at first glance, Zack and Jillian seem to move rather rapidly into a relationship, it is evident that they have a history; a rather passionate history. I loved that they weren't afraid to just go for it.

Jillian is an awesome character. She is strong and successful and, despite the men in her past, she isn't afraid to tell Zack exactly what she wants or to send him packing when he couldn't do it. Deep down, Jillian knows her worth and doesn't settle for less than the best.

Zack is thoughtful and a little broody, but the biggest of all, Zack is a father. Zack's son Seth is absolutely one of the best child characters I've seen. I absolutely love him. Zack has missed a few years of being a full-time father to Seth, but that doesn't mean that he lets Seth do whatever he wants. He is an amazing father and I have to think that, beyond his overall sexiness, THIS is the reason that Jillian is so drawn to him.

If you are a fan of romance, cowboys, families, and close friends, THIS is a book for you.

Where does anyone begin in a review regarding Kristen Proby’s work?
I am always at a loss of words.

Kristen has this magical ability to write such amazing and true love stories that no words can describe.

The With Me Books are part of an epic series that cannot be compared with any other romance series. The Love Under the Big Sky Series is truly magnificent and every book is a masterpiece.

The most amazing part of Kristen’s books is her characters. You love them all. It’s unavoidable. You love every Montgomery man and woman, as you love every King guy. Her men are sexy, overprotective and pure alpha males, with a fierce heart, pure love and raw passion. Her women are true heroines, with a witty mind, a golden heart and infinite strength.

Specifically for Falling for Jillian………………….

Zack is such a strong guy. He has seen so many tragedies in his life. He has lived through so much that even sounds unbearable. But he is a good man and a good father.

Jillian has also lived through her own personal hell. She was raised in a way that no child should ever have to experience. But, she’s still a sweet, kind person with so much love inside of her.

Zack and Jillian are survivors. They are strong people, who met hell and crossed to the other side. They have love and kindness to spread to those around themselves and they’re not shadows of themselves. Hell did not win. They did on their own ways.

I loved this book, as I loved every book from this series. I may have a soft spot for Cara and Josh, but Zack and Jilly have also claimed a part of me.

I highly recommend this book, as well as the entire Love Under the Big Sky Series.

I am huge fan of Kristen Proby, simply because I haven’t read a book of hers and not adored it. She’s definitely one of my go-to authors. I don’t even need to read the synopsis, before I grab a Kristen Proby book.

She’s a classic and her series are epic.
Falling for Jillian could only ever receive 5 Amazing Stars!!

Zack King and Jillian Sullivan have been dancing around each other in the background of the other books in this series. Finally, readers get to see what was going on between these two and where it is going to lead!

Jillian is a sassy, stubborn, independent woman. But she is also hesitant to jump into a relationship, even a year after finding her husband in bed with another woman, years of being in a not-so-happy marriage.

Zack is back from his last deployment, trying to find a steady routine for himself and his son now that it’s just the two of them. But Zack is also carrying the guilt of leaving Seth in the situations he found himself while Zack was deployed.

Both are carrying baggage to weigh down a herd of cattle, and working through it won’t be easy. They have great back and forth, great chemistry, and great build up to their story. There was a little bit of angst and tension, especially in the beginning, but it didn’t take them long to move past that initial angst and move into a relationship with more at stake. But they just fit together. Their friends and family see what is between them long before they admit it to themselves.

I loved watching Jill and Seth together. Between the common elements in their childhoods, to the quiet heart to hearts they share, I loved helping him find his strength after his time with his mother. And you can’t beat the humor that comes from a teenager’s perspective about his father dating, and all the mushy stuff that comes with a woman in the house.

I loved the whole story arch, and the final outcome. This moved at a great pace, fast enough to keep moving, but still built a great depth of emotion and character. This book also made me grin. A lot. I found myself grinning at points and couldn’t remember when I had started. On the flip side, it also held moments that had me wishing I had a tissue nearby. This was a perfect blend of humor, family, depth, and character.

5 stars

Kristen Proby's writing is so flawless. She has a way of writing a story that inevitably makes you fall in love with her characters. I always know that if I'm in the mood for a sexy, heartwarming story then I can always pick up latest. I'm always left with a smile and contented sigh when I turn the last page.

Falling for Jillian is the story of how Zach and Jillian are reunited and are able to face the challenges that many relationships face. Jillian has a rough past that all started with her abusive father and her mother who wasn't much better. Add that with her infertility issues and then to find her husband cheating on her, all of this led her to be the divorced Jillian we find back in Montana. She's happy to be back with her best friends and family. Then again, not quite ready to face Zach after one passionate night they had together.
Zach, after having gone to war and the. Come back and find that his ex-wife's boyfriends had been hitting his son, is furious. Having gotten full custody of Seth, he's ready to get back in the swing of things and make a home for the two of them. He just didn't expect to throw Jillian back in to the mix.
These two together are hot. They are perfect together. They balance each other out like only two people who are made for each other can. Where as Zach still has trouble with his PTSD, Jillian can calm him down with just the touch of her hand. They both have baggage but are willing to work through it if it means being together. But one issue arises that could ruin it all. Will they be able to look past the mistakes that were made and said in the heat of the moment or is the damage already done?

Falling for Jillian by Kristen Proby
Contemporary Romance – Jan. 27th, 2015
4 stars

City girl, Jillian is smart, ambitious and heartbroken when she discovers her ex is having a child with his new woman. When she couldn't conceive at all. So she runs to her dear friend Cara who lives in Montana. But finds herself consoling herself with Cara's attractive brother Zach instead! Soon Jillian is falling in love with Zach and his precocious son Seth. It seems that she may have found a ready made family. Zach is caring and kind and he doesn't mind she can't have children since he has a son he adores already. But Zach's lying and cheating wife has left deep scars behind. He has serious trust issues and rages at Jillian when be believes she has lied to him. Breaking her heart and her trust. Can she forgive him?

This story is told in the first person which took me a while to get used to. Jillian is an earthy and open character that speaks her mind. She loves Zach and his son and Zach loves her. This was realistic romance about love and second chances. Zach and Jillian are imperfect characters. Zach at first seem like the dream man but half way through the book he becomes almost unrecognizable. His previous marriage hurt him and he sees Jillian with eyes clouded by his treacherous, cheating ex-wife. When he hurts Jillian he soon realizes she isn't the same as his ex but words can't be taken back. Although I was shocked by Zack's behavior I liked how he tried to make up to Jillian, make amends and change himself. But my favorite character in the story was Seth who feels the lack of motherly love and is sometimes smarter than his father and aids in getting Jillian back.

Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club

Kristen Proby writes the kind of romance that you will want to come back to again and again. She has a way of intertwining her many characters, leaving you to love them each individually and all together. Even the characters that are secondary to the story have a way of leaving a huge impact. She creates stories with depth, characters that feel real and stories that capture you from beginning to end. Falling for Jillian is no exception, once again Kristen Proby has reminded me exactly why she is one of my all time favorite authors.

In Falling for Jillian we have a family dynamic that we were first introduced to in book one of the Love Under The Big Sky series, Loving Cara. Here we get the rest of Seth and his dad and how their family of two turns into a family of three. Jillian is convinced that she is not ultimatly what they guys need but the both of them realize that they need Jillian just as much as she needs them. This is a story of not only Zach and Jillian finding love in each other but for Seth as well. It a story the hits on the meaning of love and family and the many different ways it can be found and cherished.

Just like she did in the With Me in Seattle Series, Kristen Proby creates a family dynamic that is real, raw and passionate. Not just the sexy passion, but family passion. This is one of the formulas that makes all of her books so wonderful, there is so much depth to all the working parts of the story but never once do I feel overwhelmed from it. She writes so well that you don't have to stop and think about it, you just feel it in the connections you make with the characters while reading.