BOOK REVIEW- Something Wilder by Christina Lauren

3.5 stars/second chance romance/adventure

Let me preface this review by saying that there is nothing I love more than books (especially romances) set in the west. I am a cowboy romance fanatic, and anything outdoorsy and western immediately has my attention.

Something Wilder is at its core a second chance romance. A treasure-hunting retreat brings the guide, Lily Wilder, back together with the man who broke her heart, and forces them to work together and address their past head on.

Lily Wilder is the daughter of famous treasure hunter Duke Wilder. She has big dreams of owning and running her own ranch, but after Duke unexpectedly passes away after selling their land, she is forced into a different path. She guides treasure hunting retreats with her best friend where they lead groups of fake treasure hunting tours and camp in the wilderness of Utah. She was already ready to move in when a tour brings her face-to-face with Leo Grady, the man who broke her heart.

The narrative alternates between Lily and Leo, something that can be hit or miss for me. I personally loved it in this case. They were very different characters, but the dual POV helped the reader really understand the complexities-and reality- of what drove Leo and Lily apart. I think that without the dual POV, I would not have supported the second chance romance.

I loved this novel because it was something different. It’s a little edgier than what I’ve read of CL in the past, and the romance is more of a sub-plot to the action, adventure, and danger. The plot is definitely over the top at times, but it was fun. There are also some fun twists thrown in, and I found myself gasping or laughing out loud multiple times.

Something Wilder is fun, enjoyable, and entertaining. Definitely recommend.