Review: The Stand-In by Kristen Proby (Single in Seattle #5)

Note: An advance reader copy (ARC) was provided by the author via Valentine PR.

Dare I say that the Single in Seattle series is giving the OG With Me in Seattle series a run for its money? Kristen Proby delivers another entertaining addition to what's become an addictive spin-off series in The Stand-In. Michael Andrew Montgomery always believed he was meant to be on a football field, and while the dream shifted a bit, he's still where he belongs. At twenty-seven, Drew relishes his position as the quarterback coach for Seattle's professional football team. What he isn't a huge fan of is one of his new bosses. Alongside her brother, Rome, London Ambrose is the youngest owner of a pro sports team in history at thirty-two. Having the money to buy a team, however, doesn't mean she knows the ins and outs of either owning one or the sport itself. Or at least that's what he assumed. Turns out that there's more to London than meets the eye, and Drew is intrigued by her. However, pursuing her could prove to be far more complicated than Drew actually anticipated. The question is, was making a play for London worth the risk?

This was a fun read! Having London a wee bit older--five years--than Drew was that extra bit that felt like the proverbial icing on an already scrumptious cake. Suffice it to say that Drew's journey to his happily-ever-after shared similarities with that of his parents, Caleb and Brynna (Safe with Me, book five in the With Me in Seattle series), but his romance with London was still very much his own. I loved seeing London and Drew build their relationship and that there wasn't a whole lot of unnecessary conflict with regards to the fact that he worked for her. However, my favorite thing had to be Drew forming a bond with young Caleb (not to be confused with "old" Caleb) because it showcased the complexities of the situation they, including London, were all in. Also, while the story is mostly set in Seattle, Kristen Proby gives readers a peek of sorts at the setting for her upcoming series, The Wilds of Montana, and I'm pretty much intrigued already! But for now, I'm loving all things Single in Seattle and I'm giving The Stand-In five out of five stars.

Release Date: 14 November 2023

Date Read: 12 November 2023

Learn more about Kristen Proby.

Pre-order The Stand-In on Amazon.