I absolutely should not be attracted to my boss.
I’m living on Tucker Hendrix’s ranch for the next year as a veterinary intern. But imagine my surprise when I walk onto the property on my first day and recognize the owner.
He’s the mysterious customer I used to flirt with at the diner all those years ago.
Now, the chemistry is hotter than ever, and all I can think about is his muscles and the fact that none of my scars bother him.
He’s seen everything that no one else has, and he’s not running away from me, or the fact that I’m a Lexington sister and we come from a monster.
In fact, for the first time in my life, a man is patient, gentle, and treats me like I’m the most important thing in his universe. Like he can’t live without me.
Like my scars aren’t the failure of a lifetime.
I’m starting to see a life for myself here with this man, on this gorgeous Montana ranch. His family has welcomed me into the fold as if it were a foregone conclusion.
But someone is hell bent on hurting me and making sure I don’t get the happy life I’ve worked so hard for.
Will they succeed? Or will Tucker and I come out the other side stronger than ever?
(ARC Read)
I fell so hard into this story.
Kristen Proby has always been one of my comfort authors, but Pretty Little Scars reminded me exactly why. This story is emotional, hopeful, heart-wrenching, and deeply romantic all at once. It hurts before it heals, and watching that healing unfold was one of the most rewarding reading experiences I’ve had in a long time.
If you’ve followed the Lexington family through previous books, you already know Darby’s story was never going to be an easy one. The trauma she endured as a child left both physical and emotional scars that continue to shape how she moves through the world. What I loved most about Darby is that while her past is an important part of her story, it never defines her. She’s strong, intelligent, compassionate, and determined to build a life on her own terms. Beneath that resilience, though, she’s still carrying so much hurt, and watching her slowly learn to trust, to hope, and to let someone love her was absolutely beautiful.
“So fucking argumentative. So goddamn beautiful.”
And then there’s Tucker Hendrix.
I am completely obsessed with this man.
This man fills out jeans perfectly. Thick thighs, hard ass, tapered back. Fuck, my man is hot.
Tucker has been carrying a torch for Darby for years after meeting her at a diner, and the moment she arrives at his Montana ranch as a veterinary intern, five years later, he’s all in. But what makes Tucker so special isn’t just how much he loves her—it’s how he loves her. He’s patient, gentle, respectful, and endlessly supportive. He never tries to fix Darby or save her. Instead, he stands beside her, gives her the space she needs, and reminds her that she’s never alone.
The way he consistently asks for consent, respects her boundaries, and moves at her pace made my heart melt. He sees every scar she carries and loves her exactly as she is. Whether he’s building her greenhouse, checking on her after a difficult day, or simply making sure she feels safe, every action shows how deeply he cares. Protective without being overbearing, fiercely loyal without being possessive, Tucker is the definition of a green-flag hero.
“What are your hobbies, Tucker?”
“Staring at you, Darby.”
The romance itself was everything I wanted. Their connection develops naturally through trust, friendship, and emotional intimacy, making every milestone between them feel earned. The chemistry is incredible—sweet, playful, emotional, and undeniably hot—but what stood out most was how grounded their relationship felt. They face challenges together rather than allowing those challenges to drive them apart, which made their love story feel even stronger.
“No, baby. I don’t want you to hate anything about yourself. You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me, and I won’t have you thinking for one second that you’re anything but perfect, just the way you are.”
And while the emotional connection between Darby and Tucker is what truly stole my heart, let’s not pretend the chemistry wasn’t bringing serious heat. The intimate scenes are beautifully balanced with the story’s emotional depth, making every moment feel meaningful rather than simply spicy for the sake of being spicy. Because of everything Darby has been through, physical intimacy becomes another layer of trust between them, and Kristen handles that progression so well. Every touch, every kiss, every step forward feels earned. And listen… HELLO, BIKE SCENE. If you know, you know. That’s all I’m saying.
“You are the best thing I’ve ever had in my mouth,” I reply and then nuzzle her nose. “And the sexiest damn woman ever born.”
I also loved the romantic suspense element woven throughout the story. It adds tension without overshadowing the emotional core of the book, and I appreciated that Kristen Proby never relied on unnecessary drama or a frustrating third-act breakup to create conflict.
The found family aspect was another highlight. Between the Hendrix family, the Blackwells, returning Proby favorites, and the friendships forming throughout Silver Springs, the sense of community is incredible. Even during the heavier moments, there’s always an underlying feeling of love, support, and belonging that makes this world feel so warm and comforting.
And can we talk about that scene where Tucker and Darby share their scars? My heart absolutely shattered and healed at the same time. It was breathtakingly beautiful.
“I love all of your pretty little scars. Every single one.”
Pretty Little Scars is a beautiful story about healing, trust, resilience, and finding someone who loves every part of you, including the pieces you struggle to love yourself. It’s emotional, romantic, hopeful, and filled with so much heart. If this is what Kristen Proby has planned for the Silver Springs series, I am already counting down the days until the next book.
Release Date: June 18th, 2026
Thank you to Kristen Proby for the ARC read!