Kristen Proby’s Close to You, the second installment in her Fusion series, is a delightful exploration of rekindled love, personal growth, and the complexities of adult relationships. This novel, set against the vibrant backdrop of Portland, Oregon, offers readers a compelling blend of romance, humor, and emotional depth, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance.

At the heart of the story is Camilla "Cami" LaRue, a character whose journey from childhood infatuation to mature love is both relatable and engaging. Cami is a successful businesswoman, co-owning the popular restaurant Seduction with her friends. Her life seems perfect on the surface, yet there is an underlying sense of longing and incompleteness that Proby skillfully weaves into her character. The return of Landon Palazzo, her childhood crush, serves as the catalyst for Cami’s emotional awakening. Proby does an excellent job of portraying Cami’s internal struggle as she balances her professional success with her personal desires.

Landon, on the other hand, is a character that exudes charm and confidence. Having spent 12 years as a Navy fighter pilot, his return to Portland marks a significant transition in his life. Proby paints him as a man who is not only physically attractive but also emotionally mature and ready to settle down. His realization that Cami is no longer the little girl he once knew, but a beautiful and accomplished woman, is portrayed with a sense of wonder and admiration that adds depth to his character. The chemistry between Cami and Landon is palpable, and Proby’s ability to capture the nuances of their evolving relationship is one of the novel’s strengths.

The theme of second chances is central to Close to You. Proby explores the idea that love can endure despite time and distance, and that sometimes, the right person has been in front of you all along. This theme is beautifully illustrated through Cami and Landon’s interactions, as they navigate the complexities of their past and present feelings. The novel also touches on the importance of friendship and support, as Cami’s friends play a significant role in her journey towards embracing love.

Proby’s writing style is both engaging and accessible, with a perfect balance of humor and emotion. Her dialogue is witty and realistic, capturing the essence of each character’s personality. The pacing of the novel is well-executed, allowing the romance between Cami and Landon to develop naturally without feeling rushed. Proby’s descriptive prose brings the setting of Portland to life, adding an extra layer of charm to the story.

In comparison to other contemporary romance novels, Close to You stands out for its strong character development and emotional depth. Fans of authors like Jill Shalvis and Susan Mallery will appreciate Proby’s ability to create relatable characters and heartfelt stories. The novel’s focus on personal growth and the transformative power of love is reminiscent of works by these authors, yet Proby’s unique voice and style make it a fresh addition to the genre.

One of the novel’s most appealing aspects is its portrayal of a strong, independent female protagonist. Cami is a character who knows what she wants and is not afraid to pursue her dreams. Her journey towards accepting love and vulnerability is portrayed with authenticity and sensitivity, making her a character that readers can root for. Landon’s character complements Cami’s perfectly, as he is supportive and understanding, yet determined to win her heart.

Overall, Close to You is a captivating and heartwarming story that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the complexities of love and relationships. Kristen Proby has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader’s mind long after the last page is turned. Whether you are a long-time fan of Proby’s work or new to her writing, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.

For those interested in exploring more of Kristen Proby’s Fusion series, Close to You is a perfect starting point. Its blend of romance, humor, and emotional depth makes it a standout in the contemporary romance genre, and a testament to Proby’s talent as a storyteller.