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Something Wilder
Growing up the daughter of notorious treasure hunter and absentee father Duke Wilder left Lily without much patience for the profession鈥� or much money in the bank. But Lily is nothing if not resourceful, and now uses Duke鈥檚 coveted hand-drawn maps to guide tourists on fake treasure hunts through the red rock canyons of Utah. It pays the bills but doesn鈥檛 leave enough to fulfill her dream of buying back the beloved ranch her father sold years ago, and definitely not enough to deal with the sight of the man she once loved walking back into her life with a motley crew of friends ready to hit the trails. Frankly, Lily would like to take him out into the wilderness鈥攁nd leave him there.
Leo Grady knew mirages were a thing in the desert, but they鈥檇 barely left civilization when the silhouette of his greatest regret comes into focus in the flickering light of the campfire. Ready to leave the past behind him, Leo wants nothing more than to reconnect with his first and only love. Unfortunately, Lily Wilder is all business, drawing a clear line in the sand: it鈥檚 never going to happen.
But when the trip goes horribly and hilariously wrong, the group wonders if maybe the legend of the hidden treasure wasn鈥檛 a gimmick after all. There鈥檚 a chance to right the wrongs鈥攐f Duke鈥檚 past and their own鈥攂ut only if Leo and Lily can confront their history and work together. Alone under the stars in the isolated and dangerous mazes of the Canyonlands, Leo and Lily must decide whether they鈥檒l risk their lives and hearts on the adventure of a lifetime.
Leo Grady knew mirages were a thing in the desert, but they鈥檇 barely left civilization when the silhouette of his greatest regret comes into focus in the flickering light of the campfire. Ready to leave the past behind him, Leo wants nothing more than to reconnect with his first and only love. Unfortunately, Lily Wilder is all business, drawing a clear line in the sand: it鈥檚 never going to happen.
But when the trip goes horribly and hilariously wrong, the group wonders if maybe the legend of the hidden treasure wasn鈥檛 a gimmick after all. There鈥檚 a chance to right the wrongs鈥攐f Duke鈥檚 past and their own鈥攂ut only if Leo and Lily can confront their history and work together. Alone under the stars in the isolated and dangerous mazes of the Canyonlands, Leo and Lily must decide whether they鈥檒l risk their lives and hearts on the adventure of a lifetime.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published May 17, 2022
4,724 people are currently reading
155k people want to read
About the author
Christina Lauren
106听books93k听followersChristina Lauren is the combined pen name of long-time writing partners/best friends Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings. The coauthor duo writes both Young Adult and Adult Fiction, and together has produced twenty New York Times bestselling novels. Their books have been translated into 30+ languages. (Some of these books have kissing. Some of these books have A LOT of kissing.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 15,555 reviews
August 9, 2022
This amazing book is out! Here鈥檚 my digital work I shared on my Instagram account:
Whoa! My favorite romance duo blew my mind for good! They gave us something unique, extraordinary, unconventional and so exciting to devour!
This book is so different from the other stories they鈥檝e crafted! This is a glowing gem! For the first time they wrote a action packed western meets mystery and heartfelt, angsty love story and sarcastic comedy with action packed adventure. Yes, this book is quiet mash up of blended genres! And you know it: they blended perfectly!
I loved the heart throbbing action parts! I loved Lily and Leo鈥檚 unresolved feelings and sweet-innocent love story!
The puzzles, the codes, the riddles were smartly developed! They were confusing enough to exhaust my mind! But I loved how those enigmatic codes fit into the entire execution.
It was like watching National Treasure meets City Slickers combined with love story!
I鈥檓 not giving much away! Both Lily and Leo were adorable characters. Lily is tough, independent, fiery, stubborn, caring, western Lara Croft as Leo was quirky, charming, caring, romantic, loyal, dedicated and extra smart code breaker and heart stealer!
Nic and sweet potato Walt were amazing, entertaining supporting characters!
Conclusion of the book was smart and also heartwarming at the same time!
No more words! I鈥檓 reading this power duo鈥檚 books for years but I can honestly say this is their most unique and the best work! I鈥檓 so happy they were brave enough to write about completely different story! It truly worked for me and exceeded my expectations!
Giving my blazing treasure hunting, I have to rewatch Butch Cassidy and Sundance Kid ASAP stars!
Millions of thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
Whoa! My favorite romance duo blew my mind for good! They gave us something unique, extraordinary, unconventional and so exciting to devour!
This book is so different from the other stories they鈥檝e crafted! This is a glowing gem! For the first time they wrote a action packed western meets mystery and heartfelt, angsty love story and sarcastic comedy with action packed adventure. Yes, this book is quiet mash up of blended genres! And you know it: they blended perfectly!
I loved the heart throbbing action parts! I loved Lily and Leo鈥檚 unresolved feelings and sweet-innocent love story!
The puzzles, the codes, the riddles were smartly developed! They were confusing enough to exhaust my mind! But I loved how those enigmatic codes fit into the entire execution.
It was like watching National Treasure meets City Slickers combined with love story!
I鈥檓 not giving much away! Both Lily and Leo were adorable characters. Lily is tough, independent, fiery, stubborn, caring, western Lara Croft as Leo was quirky, charming, caring, romantic, loyal, dedicated and extra smart code breaker and heart stealer!
Nic and sweet potato Walt were amazing, entertaining supporting characters!
Conclusion of the book was smart and also heartwarming at the same time!
No more words! I鈥檓 reading this power duo鈥檚 books for years but I can honestly say this is their most unique and the best work! I鈥檓 so happy they were brave enough to write about completely different story! It truly worked for me and exceeded my expectations!
Giving my blazing treasure hunting, I have to rewatch Butch Cassidy and Sundance Kid ASAP stars!
Millions of thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
February 16, 2022
Keep CL's advice in mind while reading this book and/or traveling the wilds of Utah: " We wrote this book to be a fun, swoon-filled escape from the real world, not to serve as a guide to your own adventure. If you follow our route, you will die, lol."
Something Wilder is a second chance romance about a wild west treasure hunting tour guide and the man who broke her heart. A treasure-hunting retreat brings them together again, where they face danger and darkness.
Lily Wilder, daughter of Duke Wilder, a famous treasure hunter, left her in ruins. She runs treasure hunting corporate and tourist retreats in the wilds of Utah. With the help of her best friend Nicole, they lead groups of fake treasure hunting tours and rough it in the wild. Ready to move on with her life, Lily's last tour reunites her with Leo Grady, the man who broke her heart years ago. Action, adventure, mystery, and suspense ensue.
The narrative alternates between Lily and Leo. I liked Lily--she is tough as nails and makes for an inspiring heroine, but I loved Leo. Their chemistry is palpable. Nicole's POV isn't shared, but I loved her character, and I think she should be the MC in CL's next book. She made me laugh out loud.
Something Wilder is my favorite CL since Love and Other Words. What I enjoyed is that it is different from their other novels. There is an edge of darkness, and there is more than just romance, as there is a lot of action and adventure. The plot is a little over-the-top, but I enjoyed it. There is also a mystery and some suspense woven in. I was pleasantly surprised by the dark turn this took. Combined with lovable characters, this book was a winner for me.
I haven鈥檛 loved CL鈥檚 most recent novels. They felt formulaic and forced, but this book brought me back to the reasons that made me love their earlier novels: loveble characters, steamy chemistry, and something a little unexpected. I am glad they stepped out of the box and did something different in Something Wilder.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Something Wilder is a second chance romance about a wild west treasure hunting tour guide and the man who broke her heart. A treasure-hunting retreat brings them together again, where they face danger and darkness.
Lily Wilder, daughter of Duke Wilder, a famous treasure hunter, left her in ruins. She runs treasure hunting corporate and tourist retreats in the wilds of Utah. With the help of her best friend Nicole, they lead groups of fake treasure hunting tours and rough it in the wild. Ready to move on with her life, Lily's last tour reunites her with Leo Grady, the man who broke her heart years ago. Action, adventure, mystery, and suspense ensue.
The narrative alternates between Lily and Leo. I liked Lily--she is tough as nails and makes for an inspiring heroine, but I loved Leo. Their chemistry is palpable. Nicole's POV isn't shared, but I loved her character, and I think she should be the MC in CL's next book. She made me laugh out loud.
Something Wilder is my favorite CL since Love and Other Words. What I enjoyed is that it is different from their other novels. There is an edge of darkness, and there is more than just romance, as there is a lot of action and adventure. The plot is a little over-the-top, but I enjoyed it. There is also a mystery and some suspense woven in. I was pleasantly surprised by the dark turn this took. Combined with lovable characters, this book was a winner for me.
I haven鈥檛 loved CL鈥檚 most recent novels. They felt formulaic and forced, but this book brought me back to the reasons that made me love their earlier novels: loveble characters, steamy chemistry, and something a little unexpected. I am glad they stepped out of the box and did something different in Something Wilder.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2022
CL said they wanted to write something fun and they definitely achieved that.
i will say that the tone of this book is different than what im used to when it comes to CL stories. its predominately an adventure-based treasure hunt. which is fine, especially because CL said they wanted something fun. but the romance and connections they are so known for writing definitely takes a back seat in this one.
so while i do wish there was more 鈥渓ily + leo鈥� in this, its still a very entertaining summer read as it will effortlessly transport you to straight to the wilderness, having you solve puzzles and chasing after legends of hidden gold!
鈫� 4 stars
i will say that the tone of this book is different than what im used to when it comes to CL stories. its predominately an adventure-based treasure hunt. which is fine, especially because CL said they wanted something fun. but the romance and connections they are so known for writing definitely takes a back seat in this one.
so while i do wish there was more 鈥渓ily + leo鈥� in this, its still a very entertaining summer read as it will effortlessly transport you to straight to the wilderness, having you solve puzzles and chasing after legends of hidden gold!
鈫� 4 stars
January 23, 2022
Hi hello how are you? When we finished The Soulmate Equation in 2020 and started to think about what we鈥檇 like to do next, we knew one thing: we wanted FUN. In a year that kept us home and away from family, friends, readers, and each other, we were ready to get out into the world鈥攅ven if only through our characters鈥攁nd have an adventure. We were nervous at first. The seeds for Something Wilder had been quietly taking up space in the back of our brains for years, but it was part of a conversation with one of our heroes, Sarah MacLean, that became our mantra: be fearless and take big swings. Movies like Romancing the Stone had adrenaline, and adventure, and deep, heart-clenching swoons. We felt post-pandemic romance needed more of that. Writing Something Wilder was the most fun we've ever had writing a book before. It was madcap, bumbling, bad-guy-chasing, heart-in-the-throat fun. It was heart-swooping, second-chance, kissing-in-the-rain fun (with only one tent). It's classic CLo but also unlike anything we've ever written before, and we hope you love it just as much as we do! Thank you for reading, we adore you!
Preorder link here!
Preorder link here!
September 14, 2022
when we asked for a romance we meant a romance, not more on page sex scenes that come out of absolute nowhere 馃拃
January 15, 2022
鈥淪omething Wilder鈥� was an easy read, but there was nothing truly special about it. Despite what the blurb leads you to believe, the book is more focused on the 鈥渢reasure hunting鈥� part than the 鈥渞omance鈥� part.
The little romance it had wasn鈥檛 all that great because we just didn鈥檛 see enough of Leo and Lily鈥檚 relationship before their fallout to understand why they still had strong feelings for each other after 10 years apart.
I also felt like things moved too fast between the main characters and once again we were left wondering 鈥渨hy?鈥� considering there weren鈥檛 that many scenes focused on their relationship development.
The treasure hunting plot was the real surprise in this book and although I liked some of its unexpected turns, most of it bored and irritated me because it was way over the top (and not in a fun way).
All in all, for someone who was expecting a sweet second chance rom-com involving treasure hunts in the canyons, this, unfortunately, didn't hit the mark.
*Thank you Edelweiss and Gallery Books for providing this ARC*
The little romance it had wasn鈥檛 all that great because we just didn鈥檛 see enough of Leo and Lily鈥檚 relationship before their fallout to understand why they still had strong feelings for each other after 10 years apart.
I also felt like things moved too fast between the main characters and once again we were left wondering 鈥渨hy?鈥� considering there weren鈥檛 that many scenes focused on their relationship development.
The treasure hunting plot was the real surprise in this book and although I liked some of its unexpected turns, most of it bored and irritated me because it was way over the top (and not in a fun way).
All in all, for someone who was expecting a sweet second chance rom-com involving treasure hunts in the canyons, this, unfortunately, didn't hit the mark.
*Thank you Edelweiss and Gallery Books for providing this ARC*
May 30, 2022
trigger warning: snooze fest.
If you have read this book and you liked it: do not read this review. It will also contain minor spoilers.
I have read love and other words by Christina Lauren and I actually enjoyed it. I had many issues with the ending of that book but the overall friends to lovers storyline was great. I am biased though, I freaking love me some friends to lovers.
When I heard this was going to have similar vibes: past lovers/friends who got separated by some dumb miscommunication and end up finding their way back to each other, I thought this was going to be at the very least, ENJOYABLE.
Oh boy, I was wrong.
They tried to create a treasure hunt, Indiana jones sort of situation... Let's start with the fact that this was written in third person. I don't have a problem with that when it fits with the story, but don't give me a romcommy, adventure, romance book in third person while switching back and forth between the FMC and the MMC. It's just weird, you're not Sarah J Maas.
It had NO REASON to be written in the third person and it made the overall story line so confusing, they added so many characters to this one particular "adventure" - that the third person in this made me hate the flow of how this story was told.
The romance was less than 10% of the focus of this book and they had zero chemistry. I just couldn't feel it, I didn't relate or connect with any of the characters.
They tried to create a mystery behind a hidden treasure her dad left behind...
sorry I fell asleep there for a second, anyway, moving on
we get many "dangerous" scenes, we had a sexist/homophobic/evil villain holding a gun, a "dead body", and characters deciphering word puzzles together and THIS WAS STILL SO INSANELY BORING.
Possibly the slowest and most underwhelming book I've read this year, and I usually freaking love a little national treasure storyline. This just didn't deliver at all, in any aspect.
The romance was under developed, the plot was boring, the characters were unrelatable, the flow of this book was terrible and the only wild thing about this was the fact that I read it until the end.
March 25, 2022
Second chance romance, an adventure guide company, and a fake treasure hunt. Yep, that is what we have here.
Lily's father, Duke has an "Indiana Jones" type of reputation with a past of hidden treasures and big dreams. The love of Lily's life, Leo from ten years ago, shows up at the ranch ready for some outdoor adventures. Things go off the path and over the cliff when someone in the group has another plan.
I didn't feel the chemistry between Lily and Leo and the witty banter the authors do so well was lacking. Things did get wacky at times, out in the dark, on the ranch. Think Hallmark meets a western adventure movie with a sprinkle of melodrama and spice. I was hoping for more of Romancing the Stone. Very different from their past novels.
Three stars for the setting and adventure, even though it fell off a cliff.
Just my opinion, others have really enjoyed so check out higher reviews. Just wasn't my cup of tea.
Thanks to NG and Gallery for my arc. OUT May 17, 2022
Lily's father, Duke has an "Indiana Jones" type of reputation with a past of hidden treasures and big dreams. The love of Lily's life, Leo from ten years ago, shows up at the ranch ready for some outdoor adventures. Things go off the path and over the cliff when someone in the group has another plan.
I didn't feel the chemistry between Lily and Leo and the witty banter the authors do so well was lacking. Things did get wacky at times, out in the dark, on the ranch. Think Hallmark meets a western adventure movie with a sprinkle of melodrama and spice. I was hoping for more of Romancing the Stone. Very different from their past novels.
Three stars for the setting and adventure, even though it fell off a cliff.
Just my opinion, others have really enjoyed so check out higher reviews. Just wasn't my cup of tea.
Thanks to NG and Gallery for my arc. OUT May 17, 2022
April 19, 2023
Absolutly devoured the rest of this book last night! This is def my favorite of their books to date and I'm so glad I snagged it! A one-bed, forced proximity romance and 'National Treasure' type adventure rolled into one tale set against the backdrop of America's gorgeously dusty red Southwest? SIGN. ME. UP. 馃彍锔忦煂叼煇庰煔垛赌嶁檧锔忦煔垛赌嶁檪锔忦炼�
A SHORT PREVIEW: Lily and Leo were each other's first loves until tragic circumstances ripped them apart. As Lily tries to move on with her life, she loses everything she loves in the dusty canyons of Utah and ends up creating a business out of horseback treasure hunts in the wilds of the Utah desert. When Leo is roped into a boy's trip without being told the itinerary, he finds himself back in the Utah desert, where he lost his first love, and on a treasure hunt. While Leo and Lily are surprised to see each other again, their reunion is overshadowed by someone with murderous intent pushing them to find Lily Wilder's famous dad's long-lost treasure.
THOUGHTS:
- This is one of the only romance novels I've read in a while that I think even a guy would like because there's so much adventure and fast-paced action scenes.
- I absolutely LOVE books that inspire me to travel or reminisce on my own personal travels. Something Wilder definitely accomplished that and more. The whole time I was thinking about being on horseback, (something else I love), setting up camp (again, I love camping), and hiking to find that special spot in the wilderness.
- These are the stories we need because they have us out of our office seats and into the wild, breathing fresh air. Trust me when I say... if you've never been to the American Southwest, this book is absolutely right on everything it says. We did a massive road trip out there and loved every second of that Mars-like landscape. There is NOTHING like a sunset over Monument Valley, Utah!!
- The adventure in Something Wilder was partly suspenseful, partly trying to figure out clues, and then the surprise elements along the way of friend vs. foe. If you liked movies like National Treasure or the Outer Banks show on Netflix, you'll LOVE Something Wilder!
- Made me laugh so many times. Sweet, sweet Walter (not the main male love interest but so important nonetheless) was giving 'Riley Poole from National Treasure' vibes the whole time, and I loved that! Please just watch the movie so that all my references can make sense! 馃槀馃槀
FAVORITE QUOTE(s):
- 'He hadn't felt this present in a long time.' - This quote really struck me! Some of the main themes throughout this book revolve around taking chances and figuring out what we really want in life. Are money and career advancement more important than freedom to live your life? Definitely something to think about if you're stuck in the rat race. I think I identified with this quote more than anything.
NOTES:
- I'm obsessed with the cover of this book. It's like all the colors of my soul poured out onto a sunset print, and it's amazing!
- 馃尪锔忦煂讹笍 - The spice is there but not the main focus of the story and doesn't take away from the storyline. The authors' writing is incredibly fluid so it felt like a natural inclusion into the story vs. just smutty to be smutty.
- I started this one because I needed a pick me up, and it definitely gave me those happy serotonin vibes I was looking for. I enjoyed reading it so much that I'm sticking with my 5 stars!
鈫戔啈April 19th, 2023 Update鈫戔啈
OOOKKKKK... I did NOT see these twists coming!? Def finishing this tonight and completely ignoring my mate.Sorry in advance babe!
I'm about 50% of the way through and this book is SO good. I think my favorite of all of Christina Lauren's books!!!
鈫戔啈April 18th, 2023 Update鈫戔啈
A SHORT PREVIEW: Lily and Leo were each other's first loves until tragic circumstances ripped them apart. As Lily tries to move on with her life, she loses everything she loves in the dusty canyons of Utah and ends up creating a business out of horseback treasure hunts in the wilds of the Utah desert. When Leo is roped into a boy's trip without being told the itinerary, he finds himself back in the Utah desert, where he lost his first love, and on a treasure hunt. While Leo and Lily are surprised to see each other again, their reunion is overshadowed by someone with murderous intent pushing them to find Lily Wilder's famous dad's long-lost treasure.
THOUGHTS:
- This is one of the only romance novels I've read in a while that I think even a guy would like because there's so much adventure and fast-paced action scenes.
- I absolutely LOVE books that inspire me to travel or reminisce on my own personal travels. Something Wilder definitely accomplished that and more. The whole time I was thinking about being on horseback, (something else I love), setting up camp (again, I love camping), and hiking to find that special spot in the wilderness.
- These are the stories we need because they have us out of our office seats and into the wild, breathing fresh air. Trust me when I say... if you've never been to the American Southwest, this book is absolutely right on everything it says. We did a massive road trip out there and loved every second of that Mars-like landscape. There is NOTHING like a sunset over Monument Valley, Utah!!
- The adventure in Something Wilder was partly suspenseful, partly trying to figure out clues, and then the surprise elements along the way of friend vs. foe. If you liked movies like National Treasure or the Outer Banks show on Netflix, you'll LOVE Something Wilder!
- Made me laugh so many times. Sweet, sweet Walter (not the main male love interest but so important nonetheless) was giving 'Riley Poole from National Treasure' vibes the whole time, and I loved that! Please just watch the movie so that all my references can make sense! 馃槀馃槀
FAVORITE QUOTE(s):
- 'He hadn't felt this present in a long time.' - This quote really struck me! Some of the main themes throughout this book revolve around taking chances and figuring out what we really want in life. Are money and career advancement more important than freedom to live your life? Definitely something to think about if you're stuck in the rat race. I think I identified with this quote more than anything.
NOTES:
- I'm obsessed with the cover of this book. It's like all the colors of my soul poured out onto a sunset print, and it's amazing!
- 馃尪锔忦煂讹笍 - The spice is there but not the main focus of the story and doesn't take away from the storyline. The authors' writing is incredibly fluid so it felt like a natural inclusion into the story vs. just smutty to be smutty.
- I started this one because I needed a pick me up, and it definitely gave me those happy serotonin vibes I was looking for. I enjoyed reading it so much that I'm sticking with my 5 stars!
鈫戔啈April 19th, 2023 Update鈫戔啈
OOOKKKKK... I did NOT see these twists coming!? Def finishing this tonight and completely ignoring my mate.Sorry in advance babe!
I'm about 50% of the way through and this book is SO good. I think my favorite of all of Christina Lauren's books!!!
鈫戔啈April 18th, 2023 Update鈫戔啈
May 22, 2022
This is the perfect summer read--it's a fun adventure story with treasure hunting and some steamy romance. There's also action, puzzles, and a lot of double crossing.
If you ever wished for the movie National Treasure in book form, then this book might just hit the spot. I enjoyed the ride--whether or not it was believable didn't even enter into my mind. I liked the alternating chapters from Leo's and Lily's points of view, so we knew what the other was thinking.
If you're looking for a light read that entertains without expecting too much from the reader, this is an ideal choice.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
If you ever wished for the movie National Treasure in book form, then this book might just hit the spot. I enjoyed the ride--whether or not it was believable didn't even enter into my mind. I liked the alternating chapters from Leo's and Lily's points of view, so we knew what the other was thinking.
If you're looking for a light read that entertains without expecting too much from the reader, this is an ideal choice.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
August 16, 2022
Christina Lauren books are always slam dunks for me but Something Wilder, not so much. I know this book was written to be fun and light-hearted, but it was a bit too cheesy for me, and I had a hard time getting into it. The outdoorsy, treasure hunt, cowboy vibes just aren't my thing. I wanted to love this one, but it was just okay. I love Christina Lauren and will continue reading all their books but this one isn鈥檛 a favorite!
May 24, 2022
The Goonies, but make it sexy.
September 2, 2022
3.5猸�
This was somewhat different than your typical CL read. Yes, there was some romance. But it seems this pairing of talented authors decided to dip their toes into more of a mystery.
An outdoor adventure on horseback! Hidden treasure! Murder!?
Did it work? Ummm鈥�.yes. But going in, my expectations for a healthy dose of romance was high and I felt that portion of the book took a bit of a backseat.
I chose to listen to the audio along-side my digital copy and both narrators did a good job with the characters.
I enjoyed this latest release by Christina Lauren. And as always, I鈥檓 looking forward to their next. I鈥檓 hoping they鈥檒l change course and return to their lane focusing more on contemporary romance.(That鈥檚 just my wish)!馃槈
A buddy 馃帶&馃摎 with Susanne.
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery books
This was somewhat different than your typical CL read. Yes, there was some romance. But it seems this pairing of talented authors decided to dip their toes into more of a mystery.
An outdoor adventure on horseback! Hidden treasure! Murder!?
Did it work? Ummm鈥�.yes. But going in, my expectations for a healthy dose of romance was high and I felt that portion of the book took a bit of a backseat.
I chose to listen to the audio along-side my digital copy and both narrators did a good job with the characters.
I enjoyed this latest release by Christina Lauren. And as always, I鈥檓 looking forward to their next. I鈥檓 hoping they鈥檒l change course and return to their lane focusing more on contemporary romance.(That鈥檚 just my wish)!馃槈
A buddy 馃帶&馃摎 with Susanne.
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery books
May 19, 2024
Christina and Lauren said to have written Something Wilder with the purpose of having fun during the process and be a funny experience for the readers so I'll give them that: this adventurous, dream-like, second-chance-at-love romance story was fun to read.
I wouldn't describe their books as guilty pleasures - mostly because no part of me feels guilty by reading their books -, but they have become solid parenthesis in my usual list of readings due to their simple but effective plot and happy-ever-after.
In this case, the romance is not at the core of the story as someone could imagine; be prepared to be transported into the dangerous world of canyons, where the heat might kill you, dehydration might kill you, the pouring rain might kill you, putting one foot wrong might kill you.
Or maybe the people more close to you will try to kill you.
鈫� 3 stars
I wouldn't describe their books as guilty pleasures - mostly because no part of me feels guilty by reading their books -, but they have become solid parenthesis in my usual list of readings due to their simple but effective plot and happy-ever-after.
In this case, the romance is not at the core of the story as someone could imagine; be prepared to be transported into the dangerous world of canyons, where the heat might kill you, dehydration might kill you, the pouring rain might kill you, putting one foot wrong might kill you.
Or maybe the people more close to you will try to kill you.
鈫� 3 stars
April 17, 2022
This was a fun read! I loved the adventure aspect of it, it was similar to National Treasure but with more romance. You definitely have to suspend your belief with this one but it was such a fun time! I loved the second chance romance aspect of it and also how Lily and Leo cleared the air and communicated early on in the book aka acted like adults, truly appreciated that.
August 3, 2022
This turned out to be not what I expected it to be from the cover and description. It's hard to figure out what this novel wants to be -- a romance? an adventure? a humorous and light mix of both? I think there were supposed to be some humorous moments, but I didn't laugh or even chuckle.
I expected a gentle story with slow romance and an adventure to bring the love interests together, but I got something that was often tedious, with lusty infatuation, and crude secondary characters. There wasn't enough action for this to be an adventure, and I thought there were way too many of Lily's internal and uninteresting thoughts. The romantic interest seemed nonexistent for a long while, I read it as more of a fond remembrance of a bygone flame, a nice memory but part of the past. Then the interest turned a little one-sided, and suddenly things got hot and heavy with each side having intense feelings. The mix of genres didn't come together to make this a stimulating read as I couldn't take enough of an interest in either the romance or the adventure, the majority of the scenes were dull and slow, and what action there was in either case always seemed to come out of left field.
I didn't like any of the characters, I couldn't even feign indifference as I found them all fake, annoying, uninteresting, or dumb. The guys' separate personalities didn't blend well so I hard time believing they could be friends; I didn't see the camaraderie. Leo and Lily's romance felt more like a lustful reliving of earlier days than a true and lasting interest in each other as people.
I also didn't get care for the stark contrast between the re-developing romance and the pursuit of the treasure. I'd finally settle into a steady storyline, hoping to finally see some believable chemistry and a special connection between Leo and Lily, and then the action would turn rough and rowdy with an unbelievable stunt in the treasure hunt.
Maybe I would have liked this more if I had been able to get past my expectations. I considered quitting fairly early on but decided to give it more of a chance. Sadly, I wish I had listened to my intuition and moved on from this misadventure.
I expected a gentle story with slow romance and an adventure to bring the love interests together, but I got something that was often tedious, with lusty infatuation, and crude secondary characters. There wasn't enough action for this to be an adventure, and I thought there were way too many of Lily's internal and uninteresting thoughts. The romantic interest seemed nonexistent for a long while, I read it as more of a fond remembrance of a bygone flame, a nice memory but part of the past. Then the interest turned a little one-sided, and suddenly things got hot and heavy with each side having intense feelings. The mix of genres didn't come together to make this a stimulating read as I couldn't take enough of an interest in either the romance or the adventure, the majority of the scenes were dull and slow, and what action there was in either case always seemed to come out of left field.
I didn't like any of the characters, I couldn't even feign indifference as I found them all fake, annoying, uninteresting, or dumb. The guys' separate personalities didn't blend well so I hard time believing they could be friends; I didn't see the camaraderie. Leo and Lily's romance felt more like a lustful reliving of earlier days than a true and lasting interest in each other as people.
I also didn't get care for the stark contrast between the re-developing romance and the pursuit of the treasure. I'd finally settle into a steady storyline, hoping to finally see some believable chemistry and a special connection between Leo and Lily, and then the action would turn rough and rowdy with an unbelievable stunt in the treasure hunt.
Maybe I would have liked this more if I had been able to get past my expectations. I considered quitting fairly early on but decided to give it more of a chance. Sadly, I wish I had listened to my intuition and moved on from this misadventure.
January 1, 2024
"The truth about tragedy was that when it struck, nothing on this wide green earth could make it better."
Romance? Mystery? Horror? I literally have no idea.
Romance? Mystery? Horror? I literally have no idea.
February 20, 2023
To sum up this book in one word: Mess.
It was basically 75% mess and 25% good plot and characterization. What's frustrating to me is that the writing was good, as always, and the chemistry between the two MCs was palpable. But I really heavily despised a major plot point and how it was dealt with from the first page to the last.
I appreciated the romance and loved that the misunderstanding was cleared up very early on - because the misunderstanding was big and I would have been IRRITATED if it had gone on too long. I liked how everything was tied up in the end with the romance but there were so many other loose ends that I was left trying to figure out. I really enjoyed the adventure part, and I thought it was a great setting for a fun romance. However, the plot, motivation, and characterization for so much of it was just just a mess.
It was basically 75% mess and 25% good plot and characterization. What's frustrating to me is that the writing was good, as always, and the chemistry between the two MCs was palpable. But I really heavily despised a major plot point and how it was dealt with from the first page to the last.
I appreciated the romance and loved that the misunderstanding was cleared up very early on - because the misunderstanding was big and I would have been IRRITATED if it had gone on too long. I liked how everything was tied up in the end with the romance but there were so many other loose ends that I was left trying to figure out. I really enjoyed the adventure part, and I thought it was a great setting for a fun romance. However, the plot, motivation, and characterization for so much of it was just just a mess.
June 23, 2024
I鈥橫 SO EMOTIONAL!!!!!!! 馃ス馃ス馃ス
This is the happiest book, and reading about hope and adventure and second chances and choosing joy just makes me teary after this painful time locked in our homes. 馃ぇ
Something Wilder is just鈥� blissful. And chaotic. And romantic (obviously). And the plot twists, what??? SO GOOD!!!!!
This is the story of Leo and Lily, who dated for a few months when she was nineteen and he was twenty-two. They met while Leo, a certified city boy, was spending a summer working on Lily鈥檚 dad鈥檚 Wyoming farm. Lily鈥檚 dad, Duke, was a famous historian and treasure hunter, obsessed with Butch Cassidy and all that jazz.
Ten years after Leo left the farm and basically ghosted Lily - which we learn pretty quickly is not what actually happened, given that he is the ultimate human - he and his friends go on their annual summer trip, which was planned by his best friend Bradley this year. To Leo鈥檚 complete shock, the destination is a week-long adventure through Utah鈥檚 Canyonlands National Park and its famous Outlaw Trail, provided by the company Wilder Adventures, which, you guessed it - is owned by Lily herself.
Leo had always imagined that Lily had spent the past ten years living back at the farm with her horses, so he鈥檚 pretty surprised to find out she鈥檚 now essentially poor and living in Utah and running a company that brings her effectively no income.
I cannot begin to explain how insane this book starts to get at about 30%. It鈥檚 truly cinematic, with adventure, a real tresure hunt, Butch Cassidy lore and PLENTY OF KISSING OKAY (although the steam could deeeefinitely have been turned up a notch 馃ゲ).
Anyone who knows me knows that second chance romance is my all time favorite trope, and it鈥檚 never better than when CLo writes it. They are so spectacular at building the exact right atmosphere and writing their characters in a way that you feel like you really know them.
This was just a joy bomb. It made me SO happy. CLo is a pair of hot geniuses and I pray at their altar. 鉂わ笍
This is the happiest book, and reading about hope and adventure and second chances and choosing joy just makes me teary after this painful time locked in our homes. 馃ぇ
Something Wilder is just鈥� blissful. And chaotic. And romantic (obviously). And the plot twists, what??? SO GOOD!!!!!
This is the story of Leo and Lily, who dated for a few months when she was nineteen and he was twenty-two. They met while Leo, a certified city boy, was spending a summer working on Lily鈥檚 dad鈥檚 Wyoming farm. Lily鈥檚 dad, Duke, was a famous historian and treasure hunter, obsessed with Butch Cassidy and all that jazz.
Ten years after Leo left the farm and basically ghosted Lily - which we learn pretty quickly is not what actually happened, given that he is the ultimate human - he and his friends go on their annual summer trip, which was planned by his best friend Bradley this year. To Leo鈥檚 complete shock, the destination is a week-long adventure through Utah鈥檚 Canyonlands National Park and its famous Outlaw Trail, provided by the company Wilder Adventures, which, you guessed it - is owned by Lily herself.
Leo had always imagined that Lily had spent the past ten years living back at the farm with her horses, so he鈥檚 pretty surprised to find out she鈥檚 now essentially poor and living in Utah and running a company that brings her effectively no income.
I cannot begin to explain how insane this book starts to get at about 30%. It鈥檚 truly cinematic, with adventure, a real tresure hunt, Butch Cassidy lore and PLENTY OF KISSING OKAY (although the steam could deeeefinitely have been turned up a notch 馃ゲ).
Anyone who knows me knows that second chance romance is my all time favorite trope, and it鈥檚 never better than when CLo writes it. They are so spectacular at building the exact right atmosphere and writing their characters in a way that you feel like you really know them.
This was just a joy bomb. It made me SO happy. CLo is a pair of hot geniuses and I pray at their altar. 鉂わ笍
July 15, 2022
one of the BEST books i鈥檝e read in a really long time, i would recommend this to literally anyone with eyes omggggggg!!! i鈥檓 shocked about how much i love this book
May 8, 2024
Another Christina Lauren win. 馃憤 Treasure, adventure, angst, chemistry. 馃 It entertained!
July 21, 2022
2猸愶笍
Wildly mediocre is more like it.
Do you ever sit around for 30 minutes trying to figure out what to watch on Netflix and then you finally decide only for that movie to be the film equivalent of empty calories? Such that when you鈥檙e done you think, 鈥淲hy did I do that??鈥�
That鈥檚 this book.
Wildly mediocre is more like it.
Do you ever sit around for 30 minutes trying to figure out what to watch on Netflix and then you finally decide only for that movie to be the film equivalent of empty calories? Such that when you鈥檙e done you think, 鈥淲hy did I do that??鈥�
That鈥檚 this book.
May 8, 2023
4 stars
Lily and Leo fell in love in their early twenties, and then they drifted apart. Now, almost ten years later and neither of their lives are what they expected. Instead of owning a ranch, Lily runs guided treasure hunt tours, and Leo works in IT in NYC. When Leo's friends book a surprise trip, both Lily and Leo are shocked when he turns up on one of her tours. When tragedy and chaos strike the group, Lily and Leo must work together to stay alive and hunt a treasure.
I've been reading Christina Lauren books for years and I love their romance novels, they are always so much fun. I listened to an audiobook for this one, and it was a great production with excellent narrators. The story itself seemed far fetched, but I loved the movie Romancing the Stone growing up and since the vibe of this book was based on that, I "got" it right away. Adventure romance is not a category we see a lot present day in publishing, and honestly that's a shame. I would love to read more books like this one.
Lily and Leo fell in love in their early twenties, and then they drifted apart. Now, almost ten years later and neither of their lives are what they expected. Instead of owning a ranch, Lily runs guided treasure hunt tours, and Leo works in IT in NYC. When Leo's friends book a surprise trip, both Lily and Leo are shocked when he turns up on one of her tours. When tragedy and chaos strike the group, Lily and Leo must work together to stay alive and hunt a treasure.
I've been reading Christina Lauren books for years and I love their romance novels, they are always so much fun. I listened to an audiobook for this one, and it was a great production with excellent narrators. The story itself seemed far fetched, but I loved the movie Romancing the Stone growing up and since the vibe of this book was based on that, I "got" it right away. Adventure romance is not a category we see a lot present day in publishing, and honestly that's a shame. I would love to read more books like this one.
April 15, 2022
So good! This gave me Love & Other Words vibes, which is probably why I enjoyed it so much! I had a ton of fun reading Lily and Leo鈥檚 second chance romance. I love nature-y books that make me want to go out even though I am the least nature-y person ever. The whole treasure hunting in the middle of a desert thing was great, there was some exciting suspense thrown in towards the end, and the last few chapters had my heart so full. I will still complain that it wasn鈥檛 steamy enough though, lmao. It鈥檚 not fade to black (thank god) but it鈥檚 nothing like their Beautiful Bastard days either (whomp).
I still very much highly recommend it, especially to those who loved L&OW!
I still very much highly recommend it, especially to those who loved L&OW!
June 12, 2022
3.5 stars
I have such conflicted feelings about Christina Lauren's newest release, Something Wilder. It was mostly enjoyable to read and I actually thought while reading- this would make a great movie.
This book highly focused on the adventure part of the story. If that's what you're looking for, you may love it. The story itself was probably closer to a 4 for me, but the romance was weak in my opinion. We didn't get to see any of the couples past which can usually set up a great second chance romance, and the present was so focused on this treasure hunt that the romance took not just a backseat, but a third row backseat.
I liked the characters of the story and I thought the premise was unique. If I would have felt more from the romance I think I would have loved it much more!
I have such conflicted feelings about Christina Lauren's newest release, Something Wilder. It was mostly enjoyable to read and I actually thought while reading- this would make a great movie.
This book highly focused on the adventure part of the story. If that's what you're looking for, you may love it. The story itself was probably closer to a 4 for me, but the romance was weak in my opinion. We didn't get to see any of the couples past which can usually set up a great second chance romance, and the present was so focused on this treasure hunt that the romance took not just a backseat, but a third row backseat.
I liked the characters of the story and I thought the premise was unique. If I would have felt more from the romance I think I would have loved it much more!
Audio book source: Libby
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrators: Jon Root & Patti Murin
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary
Length: 9h 27m
May 11, 2022
Ten years ago, Lily Wilder was ready to take over her family鈥檚 ranch in Wyoming, running it with the man she loved so deeply, Leo Grady. Fast forward to present day and Lily is running Wilder Adventures, a tourist expedition company based in Hester, Utah and Leo went the way of the ranch. She and Nicole (Nic), her friend and partner, are barely making ends meet but Lily鈥檚 making the most of the only thing her father Duke left to her. He was a renowned treasure hunter who created scores of hand-drawn maps supposedly leading to untold treasures, which Lily now uses for her excursions. She and Nic are preparing to lead a group of guys from New York on a getaway when she recognizes one of members鈥t鈥檚 the man who shattered her heart ten years ago.
That鈥檚 the setup and it takes a while to learn what caused Lily and Leo to go their separate ways, as well as what happened to the ranch. It鈥檚 an interesting set of circumstances and both try to manage the situation without letting the rest of the group know of their history. There鈥檚 also a motley assortment of characters, all friends of Leo鈥檚 (with one exception), the trip secretly organized by his bestie Bradley. There鈥檚 definitely romance here but this is first and foremost an adventure story.
I like puzzles and deciphering them but these maps take it to a new level. The expedition is well researched and figuring out those clues is one of the highlights of the tour, along with the breathtaking vistas and treacherous paths. However, it shifts into something dangerous, suspenseful and exciting, a transition I never saw coming but certainly welcomed. It forces Lily and Leo to confront their past, come to terms with it and decide on their futures while trying to navigate the treachery in their midst. I listened to the story and loved the narrators鈥� choices for how to depict their characters. They also managed the others really well and had excellent storytelling skills as this one very much demanded that. While I was expecting more focus on the romance, I ended up liking how it was nestled into a unique adventure with so many elements of danger and thrills. This is quite different from what I鈥檝e come to expect from the authors but one I appreciated. (I鈥檇 pay attention to their notes as it provides a context I found important.)
Posted on
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
That鈥檚 the setup and it takes a while to learn what caused Lily and Leo to go their separate ways, as well as what happened to the ranch. It鈥檚 an interesting set of circumstances and both try to manage the situation without letting the rest of the group know of their history. There鈥檚 also a motley assortment of characters, all friends of Leo鈥檚 (with one exception), the trip secretly organized by his bestie Bradley. There鈥檚 definitely romance here but this is first and foremost an adventure story.
I like puzzles and deciphering them but these maps take it to a new level. The expedition is well researched and figuring out those clues is one of the highlights of the tour, along with the breathtaking vistas and treacherous paths. However, it shifts into something dangerous, suspenseful and exciting, a transition I never saw coming but certainly welcomed. It forces Lily and Leo to confront their past, come to terms with it and decide on their futures while trying to navigate the treachery in their midst. I listened to the story and loved the narrators鈥� choices for how to depict their characters. They also managed the others really well and had excellent storytelling skills as this one very much demanded that. While I was expecting more focus on the romance, I ended up liking how it was nestled into a unique adventure with so many elements of danger and thrills. This is quite different from what I鈥檝e come to expect from the authors but one I appreciated. (I鈥檇 pay attention to their notes as it provides a context I found important.)
Posted on
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
May 27, 2022
鈥漈his is so awesome. I feel like we鈥檙e in The Goonies.鈥�
^^^^Perfect quote is perfect, but up until sweet little Walt declared it, I was thinking Christina Lauren鈥檚 latest release was the most satisfying mash-up of . . . .
and
Let me tell you it was exactly what the doctor ordered. I think everyone can understand what I鈥檓 talking about when I say I was in need of an escape from reality this week. The books that have been scoring high in the Stars department for me lately have all been pretty bleak and I absolutely needed zero more sad shit and the romcoms I have been selecting have left a lot to be desired. Until this. Blame it on the nostalgia of some of my favorite movies of the past, but this one checked every box for me. Action, adventure (TREASURE HUNT!!!!!!), second chance romance, non-squicky smexytimes 鈥� it had it all. I skipped over The Soulmate Equation because I had a feeling it wouldn鈥檛 be for me. I鈥檓 so happy I put my request in with the library post haste for this one so I was the first in line on pub day.
Every Star.
^^^^Perfect quote is perfect, but up until sweet little Walt declared it, I was thinking Christina Lauren鈥檚 latest release was the most satisfying mash-up of . . . .
and
Let me tell you it was exactly what the doctor ordered. I think everyone can understand what I鈥檓 talking about when I say I was in need of an escape from reality this week. The books that have been scoring high in the Stars department for me lately have all been pretty bleak and I absolutely needed zero more sad shit and the romcoms I have been selecting have left a lot to be desired. Until this. Blame it on the nostalgia of some of my favorite movies of the past, but this one checked every box for me. Action, adventure (TREASURE HUNT!!!!!!), second chance romance, non-squicky smexytimes 鈥� it had it all. I skipped over The Soulmate Equation because I had a feeling it wouldn鈥檛 be for me. I鈥檓 so happy I put my request in with the library post haste for this one so I was the first in line on pub day.
Every Star.
July 21, 2022
I don't know why I wasn't expecting the action/adventure aspect of this. Probably because the cover screams "cozy romance" and it's only the cover blurb that hints at all the action bits. The thing is, the romance is weak and the action absurd so I'm quitting after about three-quarters in.
I liked Leo and sympathized with Lily. And I actually like how reasonable the second chance part of this was. Like, both failed a little bit and the circumstances were extreme-enough that I could see why they made their mistakes and why a second chance is in the works. The problem with that is the romance is pretty much over once they've cleared the air. They're obviously ready to fall back in love and now it's just a matter of getting over the undeserved hurt and reconnecting. Which would have been better if the authors hadn't made Lily a bit irrational about things just to string us out a bit.
What I wasn't expecting was the degree of menace and characters dying. Plus, everything after that ramp-up was a bit dumb. And I was trying to get past that when we get to a river crossing that had every possible environmental danger manifest all at once. The river is wilder than ever before! And we're being really careful! Only not careful enough not fall down! And nearly drown! And that wouldn't have been so bad but we're in Lily's head and I couldn't help thinking "this is not the reaction of someone with years of experience navigating a wilderness setting. This is the reaction of a middle-aged author who finds herself in a wilderness setting."
And then more bad guys magically show up at the perfect time and place to be extra menacing. Out in a wilderness amateurs can't navigate safely (we're told, and look how hard it was for the "professional"!!!) and in a location Lily and Leo had to follow nineteen clues perfectly to find. And if I had been reading a physical book I might have . . . okay, I never throw books, but it would have been tempting. So much ugh!
So I'm dropping this with one star and I wish I had my time back.
I liked Leo and sympathized with Lily. And I actually like how reasonable the second chance part of this was. Like, both failed a little bit and the circumstances were extreme-enough that I could see why they made their mistakes and why a second chance is in the works. The problem with that is the romance is pretty much over once they've cleared the air. They're obviously ready to fall back in love and now it's just a matter of getting over the undeserved hurt and reconnecting. Which would have been better if the authors hadn't made Lily a bit irrational about things just to string us out a bit.
What I wasn't expecting was the degree of menace and characters dying. Plus, everything after that ramp-up was a bit dumb. And I was trying to get past that when we get to a river crossing that had every possible environmental danger manifest all at once. The river is wilder than ever before! And we're being really careful! Only not careful enough not fall down! And nearly drown! And that wouldn't have been so bad but we're in Lily's head and I couldn't help thinking "this is not the reaction of someone with years of experience navigating a wilderness setting. This is the reaction of a middle-aged author who finds herself in a wilderness setting."
And then more bad guys magically show up at the perfect time and place to be extra menacing. Out in a wilderness amateurs can't navigate safely (we're told, and look how hard it was for the "professional"!!!) and in a location Lily and Leo had to follow nineteen clues perfectly to find. And if I had been reading a physical book I might have . . . okay, I never throw books, but it would have been tempting. So much ugh!
So I'm dropping this with one star and I wish I had my time back.
May 17, 2022
2.5 stars 馃彍
鈥淟ily Wilder was a woman who worked her hardest at everything, including remaining at least an arm鈥檚 length from any emotional entanglement.鈥�
馃 the romance was dry and not enough to keep me interested and the plot was a bit stupid (like girl... you've been sitting on a lost fortune for over a decade all bc you were too lazy to open a book 馃う馃徑鈥嶁檧锔�) but overall i thought the treasure hunt idea was good enough that i still wanted to finish it. i wish more romance books chose creative and adventurous settings like this. also walter was so cute馃ズ 馃
January 29, 2022
sad it鈥檚 over 馃槶 such a creative, fun plot. lots of twists along the way, too!
the second chance trope reminded me of LOVE AND OTHER WORDS鈥攚hich is my fave by them. ughhhh馃グ
can鈥檛 wait to share my full review!! 馃枻 thank you Gallery Books for the gifted ARC!!
the second chance trope reminded me of LOVE AND OTHER WORDS鈥攚hich is my fave by them. ughhhh馃グ
can鈥檛 wait to share my full review!! 馃枻 thank you Gallery Books for the gifted ARC!!
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