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Dark Horse Dive Bar #2
Wilde for You
New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Ryan’s page-turning Dark Horse Dive Bar series continues with this story of love lost...and found…as a widow seeking to heal her heart crosses paths with a rancher/bartender who offers her a taste of adventure.
Welcome to the Dark Horse Dive Bar, where the Wildes throw one hell of a party and love could be a barstool away!
Landscape artist, Layla Brock, knows what it feels like to love someone so completely you’d do anything for them—even take their secrets to the grave. Widowed after her husband’s betrayals and tragic death, Layla is searching for a new scene to paint, a new life to live. And Wyoming feels like the perfect place to get lost and find herself again.
Jax Wilde runs the family ranch, but has a few side hustles: wrangling his sisters, covering shifts at the Dark Horse Dive Bar, and renting out cabins to tourists looking for the ranch experience. His busy schedule, plus a bad breakup, equals no personal life. And then she showed up. And the woman he thought he had nothing in common with turned out to be his perfect match.
Layla knows what it feels like to lose everything. Jax is a man who wants it all—a wife, children, a life filled with happy memories. It’s a beautiful picture of a life Layla thought she’d had but turned out to be a lie. This could be her second chance…
Until her secrets begin to unravel and a new threat is revealed. There’s one difference this time: she has Jax Wilde on her side…
Welcome to the Dark Horse Dive Bar, where the Wildes throw one hell of a party and love could be a barstool away!
Landscape artist, Layla Brock, knows what it feels like to love someone so completely you’d do anything for them—even take their secrets to the grave. Widowed after her husband’s betrayals and tragic death, Layla is searching for a new scene to paint, a new life to live. And Wyoming feels like the perfect place to get lost and find herself again.
Jax Wilde runs the family ranch, but has a few side hustles: wrangling his sisters, covering shifts at the Dark Horse Dive Bar, and renting out cabins to tourists looking for the ranch experience. His busy schedule, plus a bad breakup, equals no personal life. And then she showed up. And the woman he thought he had nothing in common with turned out to be his perfect match.
Layla knows what it feels like to lose everything. Jax is a man who wants it all—a wife, children, a life filled with happy memories. It’s a beautiful picture of a life Layla thought she’d had but turned out to be a lie. This could be her second chance…
Until her secrets begin to unravel and a new threat is revealed. There’s one difference this time: she has Jax Wilde on her side…
367 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 26, 2024
68 people are currently reading
1501 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Ryan
50 books1,885 followersJennifer Ryan, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of The Hunted and McBrides Series, writes romantic suspense and contemporary small-town romances.
Jennifer lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and three children. When she isn’t writing a book, she’s reading one. Her obsession with both is often revealed in the state of her home, and how late dinner is to the table. When she finally leaves those fictional worlds, you’ll find her in the garden, playing in the dirt and daydreaming about people who live only in her head, until she puts them on paper.
Please visit her website at www.jennifer-ryan.com for information about upcoming releases.
Jennifer lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and three children. When she isn’t writing a book, she’s reading one. Her obsession with both is often revealed in the state of her home, and how late dinner is to the table. When she finally leaves those fictional worlds, you’ll find her in the garden, playing in the dirt and daydreaming about people who live only in her head, until she puts them on paper.
Please visit her website at www.jennifer-ryan.com for information about upcoming releases.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
April 21, 2025
First Impressions
Wilde for You is the second book in the ‘Dive Horse Dive Bar’ and this book features the sibling “Jax Wilde”. After falling so hard for the first book, I was super excited for this one and couldn’t wait for it to be closer to the publishing date to read it, I just was itching to jump right into it and I have to tell you this author crafted a masterpiece! I loved every single moment of. There is something that is so much deeper to this series and I am all on board for seeing this author write some of her best stuff and having been reading her for hers, her writing has been slowly building into what we see her. The romantic suspense elements were a little bit lower than I normally have seen from her, but I was totally fine with that because the romantic elements themselves were *chef’s kiss* perfection and I honestly want to read it again it was so wonderful and captured my heart so quickly. This is a couple that quickly get on board with each other and don’t fight what they feel. Such a refreshing ideal in a romance, a couple not fighting each other or what they feel, but going all into a relationship.
Summary
Wilde for You is a setup of a story where our heroine, Layla Brock, who is a widow and a world talent of a artist. She is recovering from realizing her husband was not the man she thought he was and trying to move on to a new place. She comes to Wyoming for a fresh start and to find a new way to paint and bring a fresher perspective to her life. She then meets the Wilde family and is instantly drawn to Jax who builds her a beautiful studio and they quickly have a connection neither of them can deny. They both know that this is going fast, but that is worth fighting for. Layla is at first afraid to trust herself with Jax, as she got hurt trusting the wrong man. But Jax has a wild honesty that she is drawn to and only wants more of to be in his presence. And the way that he inspires her art emboldens her spirit in a way that she has never experienced. Jax and Layla will have to fight for their relationship in ways that they didn’t see but can they both jump into the cold water and take that leap of faith of trust in the quick love building between them….
What I Loved
There was so much to adore about this story. Lets talk first about our characters. So first off, we have Layla who is strong and a fighter. There is at first much mystery about her late husband so that really pulls you into that intrigue of wondering who was this man that burned her so badly. I really enjoyed Layla so much. She was a fighter. She fought for the relationship and for herself and what she deserved. She didn’t back down from what mattered to her and what believed in. She has such courage, and when you realize what she has been dealt, you even admire her more for taking a chance on Jax and going after that dream and having faith in a man after being betrayed in the way that she was. Then we have Jax Wilde, who is solid and true and good to the heart. He is a hardworking man, devoted to his family and building their family ranch into what it should be. He is dedicated to protecting those who need it and when he falls for Layla….he FIGHTS hard for her and their relationship. Seeing a man so devoted and dedicated to fighting for her. And when she fights for him but also SEES who he is—-its epic and beautiful in his reaction. The romance was beautiful in every single moment they were together. There were such moments within the story that will instantly capture you attention and have you as the reader living within that moment. There is also the manner in which these two take that leap of faith for each other. That deep devotion such delivers so much dimension to the story. Its a true masterpiece of heart and living your dreams and making the most of the cards that life deals you and leaping at all the good that comes your way. This story will forever hold my heart and soul in so many ways. Jax and Layla had such a beautiful story.
So next I want to talk about the triggering content within the story. I was nervous about this because the author does place a trigger warning page for both miscarriage and abortion and honestly I was scared of what this author would do because y’all know I can’t stand abortion in romance since I have yet to see an author really handle it well. I can tell you Jennifer Ryan handles these elements so brilliantly. You can tell that she was very careful with this and that wherever you side on the abortion matter, you will be okay with how this is handled, it’s done very well. I really appreciated the delicacy. More authors could learn from her example because its a very divisive topic in our society today and loved that Jennifer Ryan understood that and portrayed it so well within this story.
What I Struggled With
Nothing….wish it lasted longer haha I just didn’t want this story to end.
Overall View
Wilde For You is a poignant romance that will uplift your heart and dig deep onto the soul. Its a story of self growth, learning to fight for your happiness and embracing love when it comes your way. An artistry gem of a romance that strikes deep!
Wilde for You is the second book in the ‘Dive Horse Dive Bar’ and this book features the sibling “Jax Wilde”. After falling so hard for the first book, I was super excited for this one and couldn’t wait for it to be closer to the publishing date to read it, I just was itching to jump right into it and I have to tell you this author crafted a masterpiece! I loved every single moment of. There is something that is so much deeper to this series and I am all on board for seeing this author write some of her best stuff and having been reading her for hers, her writing has been slowly building into what we see her. The romantic suspense elements were a little bit lower than I normally have seen from her, but I was totally fine with that because the romantic elements themselves were *chef’s kiss* perfection and I honestly want to read it again it was so wonderful and captured my heart so quickly. This is a couple that quickly get on board with each other and don’t fight what they feel. Such a refreshing ideal in a romance, a couple not fighting each other or what they feel, but going all into a relationship.
Summary
Wilde for You is a setup of a story where our heroine, Layla Brock, who is a widow and a world talent of a artist. She is recovering from realizing her husband was not the man she thought he was and trying to move on to a new place. She comes to Wyoming for a fresh start and to find a new way to paint and bring a fresher perspective to her life. She then meets the Wilde family and is instantly drawn to Jax who builds her a beautiful studio and they quickly have a connection neither of them can deny. They both know that this is going fast, but that is worth fighting for. Layla is at first afraid to trust herself with Jax, as she got hurt trusting the wrong man. But Jax has a wild honesty that she is drawn to and only wants more of to be in his presence. And the way that he inspires her art emboldens her spirit in a way that she has never experienced. Jax and Layla will have to fight for their relationship in ways that they didn’t see but can they both jump into the cold water and take that leap of faith of trust in the quick love building between them….
What I Loved
There was so much to adore about this story. Lets talk first about our characters. So first off, we have Layla who is strong and a fighter. There is at first much mystery about her late husband so that really pulls you into that intrigue of wondering who was this man that burned her so badly. I really enjoyed Layla so much. She was a fighter. She fought for the relationship and for herself and what she deserved. She didn’t back down from what mattered to her and what believed in. She has such courage, and when you realize what she has been dealt, you even admire her more for taking a chance on Jax and going after that dream and having faith in a man after being betrayed in the way that she was. Then we have Jax Wilde, who is solid and true and good to the heart. He is a hardworking man, devoted to his family and building their family ranch into what it should be. He is dedicated to protecting those who need it and when he falls for Layla….he FIGHTS hard for her and their relationship. Seeing a man so devoted and dedicated to fighting for her. And when she fights for him but also SEES who he is—-its epic and beautiful in his reaction. The romance was beautiful in every single moment they were together. There were such moments within the story that will instantly capture you attention and have you as the reader living within that moment. There is also the manner in which these two take that leap of faith for each other. That deep devotion such delivers so much dimension to the story. Its a true masterpiece of heart and living your dreams and making the most of the cards that life deals you and leaping at all the good that comes your way. This story will forever hold my heart and soul in so many ways. Jax and Layla had such a beautiful story.
So next I want to talk about the triggering content within the story. I was nervous about this because the author does place a trigger warning page for both miscarriage and abortion and honestly I was scared of what this author would do because y’all know I can’t stand abortion in romance since I have yet to see an author really handle it well. I can tell you Jennifer Ryan handles these elements so brilliantly. You can tell that she was very careful with this and that wherever you side on the abortion matter, you will be okay with how this is handled, it’s done very well. I really appreciated the delicacy. More authors could learn from her example because its a very divisive topic in our society today and loved that Jennifer Ryan understood that and portrayed it so well within this story.
What I Struggled With
Nothing….wish it lasted longer haha I just didn’t want this story to end.
Overall View
Wilde For You is a poignant romance that will uplift your heart and dig deep onto the soul. Its a story of self growth, learning to fight for your happiness and embracing love when it comes your way. An artistry gem of a romance that strikes deep!
March 27, 2024
I was excited to return to the Dark Horse Dive Bar series. I feel in love with the Wilde family in Wilde Love, book one. In Wilde for You, we meet Layla Brock, a landscape painter who lost her husband and had to deal with an inheritance dispute. Secrets and pain have left her battered. Which is why she has accepted a commission in Wyoming and rented a cottage at the Wilde Ranch. She’s not looking for love, but fate has other plans. The tale that unfolds delivers romance, a touch of suspense and the Wilde family charm.
Jax Wilde thought he has a plan, and that all went to hell when his relationship ended with his girlfriend. Since then, he has thrown himself into the family business and is the center that keeps it all running. His life is about to change when he meets Layla Brock. For the first time in forever, he’s thinking about the future. Their first meet was cute, slightly awkward and let me know we were in for a sweet and touching romance. Ryan did not disappoint.
Layla is unsure of anything, including the marriage she had with her husband. How can she ever trust again? I loved Layla and her passion and excitement that shown in each painting she lost herself in. We slowly learn about her marriage, the inheritance issues, and the secrets she carries.
The romance was sweet and sexy as the two opened up to each other. Ryan hits on many relevant topics, including loss, pregnancy and abortion. I came to care for both of them and lost myself in their story. The suspenseful thread built throughout the story while it revealed secrets and pushed the couple closer.
I love the Wilde family. They are good people who work hard and love harder. They own the ranch and the Dark Horse Dive Bar. Jax oversees the operations of both and lives on the ranch with his parents. Some day the farm will be his and he couldn’t imagine a better life. We see characters from the previous novel and they are still adorable.
Fans of small-town romance with a touch of suspense, family and breathtaking views will want to grab Wilde About you. Each book in the series contains their own romance and HEA, but you’ll want to meet all the Wildes. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Jax Wilde thought he has a plan, and that all went to hell when his relationship ended with his girlfriend. Since then, he has thrown himself into the family business and is the center that keeps it all running. His life is about to change when he meets Layla Brock. For the first time in forever, he’s thinking about the future. Their first meet was cute, slightly awkward and let me know we were in for a sweet and touching romance. Ryan did not disappoint.
Layla is unsure of anything, including the marriage she had with her husband. How can she ever trust again? I loved Layla and her passion and excitement that shown in each painting she lost herself in. We slowly learn about her marriage, the inheritance issues, and the secrets she carries.
The romance was sweet and sexy as the two opened up to each other. Ryan hits on many relevant topics, including loss, pregnancy and abortion. I came to care for both of them and lost myself in their story. The suspenseful thread built throughout the story while it revealed secrets and pushed the couple closer.
I love the Wilde family. They are good people who work hard and love harder. They own the ranch and the Dark Horse Dive Bar. Jax oversees the operations of both and lives on the ranch with his parents. Some day the farm will be his and he couldn’t imagine a better life. We see characters from the previous novel and they are still adorable.
Fans of small-town romance with a touch of suspense, family and breathtaking views will want to grab Wilde About you. Each book in the series contains their own romance and HEA, but you’ll want to meet all the Wildes. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
April 22, 2024
I got this book from Avon. This is a new to me author (I think…) and her style is not for me. This book is ridiculously instalovey and cheesy. Immediate, “omggg you’re so different,” “I’ve been hurt but you’re going to heal me,” “the way we communicate is so open and honest.” No. Just no.
The conflict isn’t romance centered it’s just this external thing these nauseatingly in love couple have to deal with. And it’s not great. Also Layla puts off her “big trauma” reveal like 10x in this book and it was super annoying. “Do you want to tell me about this?” “No, I need tonight, make love to me instead.” Rinse and repeat until FINALLY she talks about it but I’d already figured it out by then so I really didn’t care.
Not my style.
The conflict isn’t romance centered it’s just this external thing these nauseatingly in love couple have to deal with. And it’s not great. Also Layla puts off her “big trauma” reveal like 10x in this book and it was super annoying. “Do you want to tell me about this?” “No, I need tonight, make love to me instead.” Rinse and repeat until FINALLY she talks about it but I’d already figured it out by then so I really didn’t care.
Not my style.
June 22, 2024
great sequel.
August 2, 2024
Entertaining, Wonderful characters, Page-turner, Steamy, Romantic, Happily Ever After, Haunting
May 18, 2024
3.5 stars
Wilde for You is the 2nd and most recent book in Jennifer Ryan’s Dark Horse Dive Bar series. With two more Wilde sisters, Aria and Melody yet to find love I’m pretty sure there’ll be more books to come in this series. In fact, I’d be willing to bet that oldest Wilde sibling Aria and FBI supervising agent Nick Gunn (Mason’s older brother) will get their own book. I was honestly shocked that theirs wasn’t the second book in this series. Because the author made it clear they would become a couple. If not them I was pretty certain this book would be a love story between Mason’s and Nick’s cousin Hawk whom the author spent a lot of time introducing us to at the end of the first book Wilde Love, and some new female protagonist. But I was wrong. This book features Jax Wilde the only male Wilde sibling and Layla a new character.
This book is very similar to the first book in the series Wilde Love which is both good and bad. It’s good if you are a fan of love at first sight romances leading to steamy bedroom scenes and a lot of heartfelt professions of love. As a romance reader I truly enjoy stories where the protagonists don’t spend practically the entire book fucking and even talking about forever but are afraid to say “I love you!” It just never makes any sense to me. So, I enjoyed the fact that Jax and Layla didn’t wait until the end to share their feelings. A willingness to tell Layla just how he was feeling and what he was thinking at any moment and Layla to be open and vulnerable, was my favorite part of this story. Bad because so much of this story resembled Wilde Love, so it lacked some originality. Just like Mason and Lyric in the first book, Jax and Layla take one look into each other’s eyes and it’s all over. Despite the emotional baggage they had from previous relationships they were drawn to each other like a magnet to steel. Layla is pretty much Lyric 2.0. Layla just like Lyric in the first book is an incredibly beautiful, kind, thoughtful and compassionate woman. Both women are extremely talented artistically. Lyric as a singer-songwriter and chef. Layla as a famous landscape artist. Both women are stalked by someone who seems to become more aggressive and dangerous as the story goes on. While Jax isn’t really so much like Mason beyond both men being your typical contemporary romance hunks, he like Mason is extremely protective of Layla as well as being madly in love with her.
We met Jax in the first book in this series Wilde Love as the brother of Lyric, Aria and Melody whom together own and operate the Black Horse Dive Bar which they inherited from their late aunt. While all of the siblings seem to help out their parents at Wilde Winds Ranch we learn that Jax, whom is going to someday inherit the ranch, pretty much runs it now. Between his obligations as a part bar owner and ranch manager there just aren’t enough hours in the day for Jax to take care of everything he’s responsible for. Yet, he’s loathe to hire more people to take some of the load off of him at either place. One thing I did find confusing was in Wilde Love we’re told that while each sibling has their own area of responsibility for the bar, Aria the eldest, is more or less the overall manager. Yet, in this book it seemed more like Jax filled that role spending a lot of time doing paperwork handling things like payroll etc. We also learned that Jax had been badly burned by his ex-Helen. Since their breakup he’s afraid to trust his heart to another woman and has stuck to no strings hook-ups. But he’s not really a hook-up kind of guy. Deep down he longs for a woman he can fall in love with, marry and start a family. With so many demands on his time and tired of meaningless sex, he hasn’t been with a woman in quite a while. It takes a long time before we learn what caused Jax’s and Helen’s break up. But the author gives us plenty of hints before Jax finally gives away the story.
Layla is a famous landscape artist whose paintings sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars. She’s been a widow from some time after Christian, her late husband committed suicide when his duplicity was discovered and Layla told him she wanted a divorce. We learn exactly what he did to break Layla’s heart not long after we learn why Jax and Helen split up. But for most of the story all we know is that what Christian did caught Layla who loved him completely by surprise. She’s angry with him for what he did and for killing himself rather than allowing her to vent and possibly repair their friendship if not their marriage. As the story opens Layla has packed up all her valuable stuff in the luxurious, oceanside California home she shared with Christian, ready to head out to Wilde Winds Ranch where she’s rented a cabin with the intention painting a Wyoming landscape for a client who has offered her a $500,000 commission. Layla needs to get away and get a fresh start so spending a few months on a Wyoming ranch sounded like a good idea.
Before Layla can leave her house we’re introduced to Michael, Christian’s younger and very spoiled, self-entitled brother. Michael is furious with Layla because he feels he deserved to inherit Christian’s estate since Layla had admitted in court she was planning on divorcing Christian but hadn’t yet filed the paperwork. He lost the case and when he contested Christian’s will in court, per the provisions Christian had in his will, he lost his right to inherit anything. Because he’s such a jerk to her and because she fears that if she gives Michael any money he’ll just come back to her wanting more Layla consistently rebuffs Michael’s insistence that she give him what he believes he’s entitled to. Throughout this story Michael continues to harass Layla demanding she give him what he feels he’s entitled to. What Michael doesn’t know is what his brother whom he idolized did to cause Layla to want to leave him or that in truth there really wasn’t much of Christian’s share of their estate to inherit.
Layla arrives at Wilde Winds Ranch with her agent and BFF April and immediately meets Jax. As I said the connection between the two is immediate and powerful. Despite Jax’s busy schedule he carves out enough time to get to know the beautiful blonde whom he can’t stop thinking about. Layla herself can’t stop thinking about the ruggedly handsome cowboy with the bluest eyes she’s ever seen. Even though they’ve both been devastatingly hurt before by the people they loved, in no small part thanks to Jax’s very straightforward way of expressing his feelings for Layla to her, they begin a torrid love affair and quickly acknowledge it’s more than a temporary fling. Layla who has had minimal contact with her own family over the years is embraced by all the Wildes who are thrilled that Jax has found someone wonderful to love. But as much as Layla is falling for Jax there’s always a little bit of fear in the back of her mind after what Christian did to her. And while Jax trust’s Layla he fears he and his simple Wyoming life won’t be enough to keep the wealthy world-famous artist from eventually wanting to leave. While Jax and Layla are falling more deeply into love someone vandalizes her California home. Later her car which is parked behind her cabin at the ranch is vandalized. The fear of Layla’s safety ratchets up the story’s tension. **Spoiler Alert**
Wilde for You is the 2nd and most recent book in Jennifer Ryan’s Dark Horse Dive Bar series. With two more Wilde sisters, Aria and Melody yet to find love I’m pretty sure there’ll be more books to come in this series. In fact, I’d be willing to bet that oldest Wilde sibling Aria and FBI supervising agent Nick Gunn (Mason’s older brother) will get their own book. I was honestly shocked that theirs wasn’t the second book in this series. Because the author made it clear they would become a couple. If not them I was pretty certain this book would be a love story between Mason’s and Nick’s cousin Hawk whom the author spent a lot of time introducing us to at the end of the first book Wilde Love, and some new female protagonist. But I was wrong. This book features Jax Wilde the only male Wilde sibling and Layla a new character.
This book is very similar to the first book in the series Wilde Love which is both good and bad. It’s good if you are a fan of love at first sight romances leading to steamy bedroom scenes and a lot of heartfelt professions of love. As a romance reader I truly enjoy stories where the protagonists don’t spend practically the entire book fucking and even talking about forever but are afraid to say “I love you!” It just never makes any sense to me. So, I enjoyed the fact that Jax and Layla didn’t wait until the end to share their feelings. A willingness to tell Layla just how he was feeling and what he was thinking at any moment and Layla to be open and vulnerable, was my favorite part of this story. Bad because so much of this story resembled Wilde Love, so it lacked some originality. Just like Mason and Lyric in the first book, Jax and Layla take one look into each other’s eyes and it’s all over. Despite the emotional baggage they had from previous relationships they were drawn to each other like a magnet to steel. Layla is pretty much Lyric 2.0. Layla just like Lyric in the first book is an incredibly beautiful, kind, thoughtful and compassionate woman. Both women are extremely talented artistically. Lyric as a singer-songwriter and chef. Layla as a famous landscape artist. Both women are stalked by someone who seems to become more aggressive and dangerous as the story goes on. While Jax isn’t really so much like Mason beyond both men being your typical contemporary romance hunks, he like Mason is extremely protective of Layla as well as being madly in love with her.
We met Jax in the first book in this series Wilde Love as the brother of Lyric, Aria and Melody whom together own and operate the Black Horse Dive Bar which they inherited from their late aunt. While all of the siblings seem to help out their parents at Wilde Winds Ranch we learn that Jax, whom is going to someday inherit the ranch, pretty much runs it now. Between his obligations as a part bar owner and ranch manager there just aren’t enough hours in the day for Jax to take care of everything he’s responsible for. Yet, he’s loathe to hire more people to take some of the load off of him at either place. One thing I did find confusing was in Wilde Love we’re told that while each sibling has their own area of responsibility for the bar, Aria the eldest, is more or less the overall manager. Yet, in this book it seemed more like Jax filled that role spending a lot of time doing paperwork handling things like payroll etc. We also learned that Jax had been badly burned by his ex-Helen. Since their breakup he’s afraid to trust his heart to another woman and has stuck to no strings hook-ups. But he’s not really a hook-up kind of guy. Deep down he longs for a woman he can fall in love with, marry and start a family. With so many demands on his time and tired of meaningless sex, he hasn’t been with a woman in quite a while. It takes a long time before we learn what caused Jax’s and Helen’s break up. But the author gives us plenty of hints before Jax finally gives away the story.
Layla is a famous landscape artist whose paintings sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars. She’s been a widow from some time after Christian, her late husband committed suicide when his duplicity was discovered and Layla told him she wanted a divorce. We learn exactly what he did to break Layla’s heart not long after we learn why Jax and Helen split up. But for most of the story all we know is that what Christian did caught Layla who loved him completely by surprise. She’s angry with him for what he did and for killing himself rather than allowing her to vent and possibly repair their friendship if not their marriage. As the story opens Layla has packed up all her valuable stuff in the luxurious, oceanside California home she shared with Christian, ready to head out to Wilde Winds Ranch where she’s rented a cabin with the intention painting a Wyoming landscape for a client who has offered her a $500,000 commission. Layla needs to get away and get a fresh start so spending a few months on a Wyoming ranch sounded like a good idea.
Before Layla can leave her house we’re introduced to Michael, Christian’s younger and very spoiled, self-entitled brother. Michael is furious with Layla because he feels he deserved to inherit Christian’s estate since Layla had admitted in court she was planning on divorcing Christian but hadn’t yet filed the paperwork. He lost the case and when he contested Christian’s will in court, per the provisions Christian had in his will, he lost his right to inherit anything. Because he’s such a jerk to her and because she fears that if she gives Michael any money he’ll just come back to her wanting more Layla consistently rebuffs Michael’s insistence that she give him what he believes he’s entitled to. Throughout this story Michael continues to harass Layla demanding she give him what he feels he’s entitled to. What Michael doesn’t know is what his brother whom he idolized did to cause Layla to want to leave him or that in truth there really wasn’t much of Christian’s share of their estate to inherit.
Layla arrives at Wilde Winds Ranch with her agent and BFF April and immediately meets Jax. As I said the connection between the two is immediate and powerful. Despite Jax’s busy schedule he carves out enough time to get to know the beautiful blonde whom he can’t stop thinking about. Layla herself can’t stop thinking about the ruggedly handsome cowboy with the bluest eyes she’s ever seen. Even though they’ve both been devastatingly hurt before by the people they loved, in no small part thanks to Jax’s very straightforward way of expressing his feelings for Layla to her, they begin a torrid love affair and quickly acknowledge it’s more than a temporary fling. Layla who has had minimal contact with her own family over the years is embraced by all the Wildes who are thrilled that Jax has found someone wonderful to love. But as much as Layla is falling for Jax there’s always a little bit of fear in the back of her mind after what Christian did to her. And while Jax trust’s Layla he fears he and his simple Wyoming life won’t be enough to keep the wealthy world-famous artist from eventually wanting to leave. While Jax and Layla are falling more deeply into love someone vandalizes her California home. Later her car which is parked behind her cabin at the ranch is vandalized. The fear of Layla’s safety ratchets up the story’s tension. **Spoiler Alert**
March 25, 2024
Check out our full post for WILDE FOR YOU on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in the series – and I loved it!
The moment Jax and Layla see each other, they are smitten, and somehow the filter is off and they tell each other how they feel – completely out of character for both of them, but they just can't help it... such fun and original when most books thrive on lack of communication.
That is not to say that they don't have issues from their past relationships, and struggle to trust, but they both recognise that this is special and so are patient with each other and affirm their attraction and constancy.
I found Layla's artist's eye a refreshing way for us to imagine Wyoming, and the beauty around her; this is undoubtedly down to the talent of the author, that this is so vivid and compelling. I liked the touch about not being her work until she signs it, and that happens only as she is about to deliver the work. It was such a strong contrast to Jax's world of running a working and holiday ranch and a lively bar with his family.
This was a really good story with lots of layers, with a passionate romance for a super hot and sexy couple at the middle of it.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
February 20, 2024
Layla Brock is a landscape artist and has not been painting recently due to the death of her husband. It's time to move on and she is going to stay at the Wilde Ranch.
Jax Wilde runs the ranch, guest cabins and the Dark Horse Dive Bar. He works way to much and not really interested in a relationship after his last one ended.
When they first meet it seems it's love at first sight. Of course, there are a lot of twist and turns they both have been betrayed in previous relationships and need to learn to trust each other.
Layla's brother-in-law keeps harassing her about wanting his share of his brother's estate. He starts making threats and she's not sure if he is serious or not. Someone breaks into her home in California and vandalize the property. Jax is determined that no one is going to get to Layla.
The story is well written held my attention with all the other Wilde's being included in the story. Can't wait on the next story of the family.
Jax Wilde runs the ranch, guest cabins and the Dark Horse Dive Bar. He works way to much and not really interested in a relationship after his last one ended.
When they first meet it seems it's love at first sight. Of course, there are a lot of twist and turns they both have been betrayed in previous relationships and need to learn to trust each other.
Layla's brother-in-law keeps harassing her about wanting his share of his brother's estate. He starts making threats and she's not sure if he is serious or not. Someone breaks into her home in California and vandalize the property. Jax is determined that no one is going to get to Layla.
The story is well written held my attention with all the other Wilde's being included in the story. Can't wait on the next story of the family.
April 19, 2024
Thank you to Avon for the complimentary book. These opinions are my own.
I hadn't realized this was the second in the dark Horse Dive Bar series when I started reading it. But I found I didn't miss out by not reading the first. This book stands alone.
Layla is a landscape painter and takes a commission in Wyoming. She sets up at Wilde Wind Ranch. Jax runs it and the Dark Horse Dive Bar with his family.
They had instant chemistry in a fast paced book that was a bit too instalove for me. In contrast, both kept secrets from their past that really dragged out the story before being shared. More than tht, there are other aspects of this book I really disliked. I am not sharing them, as they might be spoilers.
But sadly, I don't know who I could recommend this one for. The landscape descriptions were excellent, and some of Jax's sisters seemed like neat characters.
I hadn't realized this was the second in the dark Horse Dive Bar series when I started reading it. But I found I didn't miss out by not reading the first. This book stands alone.
Layla is a landscape painter and takes a commission in Wyoming. She sets up at Wilde Wind Ranch. Jax runs it and the Dark Horse Dive Bar with his family.
They had instant chemistry in a fast paced book that was a bit too instalove for me. In contrast, both kept secrets from their past that really dragged out the story before being shared. More than tht, there are other aspects of this book I really disliked. I am not sharing them, as they might be spoilers.
But sadly, I don't know who I could recommend this one for. The landscape descriptions were excellent, and some of Jax's sisters seemed like neat characters.
March 19, 2024
This was a beautiful story that I really enjoyed reading.
I loved everything about the main characters, Layla and Jax. It was fun going on their journey to heal.
The romance aspect was sweet.
There is a mystery aspect to the story that was intriguing.
Though part of a series, this can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
I loved everything about the main characters, Layla and Jax. It was fun going on their journey to heal.
The romance aspect was sweet.
There is a mystery aspect to the story that was intriguing.
Though part of a series, this can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
March 16, 2024
Jennifer Ryan's second novel in her Dark Horse Dive Bar series is aptly titled Wilde for You, which describes perfectly the meeting of sexy but bitter rancher, Jax Wilde and world-famous California-based landscape artist, Layla Brock, who has been commissioned by a fabulously wealthy LA producer to paint a half-million dollar landscape showing the beauty of Wyoming. Her best friend and agent, Alice, found that the Wilde guest ranch was very accommodating to her needs, and her open-ended reservation, extened even to setting up the glass greenhouse studio Layla purchased and Jax helped erect at the back of her cabin. And while I'm generally not big believeer in love at first sight, in this novel it somehow worked.
Both Jax and Layla were burned and betrayed by their significant others, Jax's ex-fiance and Layla's husband, now deceased by his own hand, so in addition to this beinga love at first sight, second chance at romance, there are a number of triggers in this story, cheating, abortion, deception and betrayal, as well as stalking, and quite a dash of mystery and well-kept secrets to be revealed as well, so be forewarned.
After the unexpected death of Layla's husband, Christian, she and Christian's brother, Michael, were the beneficiaries of his estate, which wasn't all that much, since the house was bought and paid for by Layla, thanks to her very lucrative art career. However, Michael thought it should all be his, since it was no secret that Layla was planning to divorce her husband, and so Michael contested the will, losing everything in their court battle. He's bitter, grieving, and angry, and he hasn't stopped bugging Layla for what he feels is his due. Getting away from him, and getting out of California, was a way to escape his constant harassment and demands, and since he had no idea where Layla was headed, aside from texting her his demands, she was free of his constant presence, and once she got to see more of the beauty of the Wilde Ranch, and sexy rancher, Jax, her artistic juices reactivated and so did her sex life.
But, like all good novels of romantic suspense, there's trouble to come, painful secrets to be revealed, and up close and personal danger ahead. To say more would would spoil this novel for you, so I'll just state that, as usual, Ms. Ryan has written a novel with all the feels, lots of romance memorable characters, and steamy scenes, but I would have preferred a bit more suspense, and a more detailed and drawn out denouement, nevertheless this novel was still a solid and satisfying read.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel and the opinions stated are my own.
Both Jax and Layla were burned and betrayed by their significant others, Jax's ex-fiance and Layla's husband, now deceased by his own hand, so in addition to this beinga love at first sight, second chance at romance, there are a number of triggers in this story, cheating, abortion, deception and betrayal, as well as stalking, and quite a dash of mystery and well-kept secrets to be revealed as well, so be forewarned.
After the unexpected death of Layla's husband, Christian, she and Christian's brother, Michael, were the beneficiaries of his estate, which wasn't all that much, since the house was bought and paid for by Layla, thanks to her very lucrative art career. However, Michael thought it should all be his, since it was no secret that Layla was planning to divorce her husband, and so Michael contested the will, losing everything in their court battle. He's bitter, grieving, and angry, and he hasn't stopped bugging Layla for what he feels is his due. Getting away from him, and getting out of California, was a way to escape his constant harassment and demands, and since he had no idea where Layla was headed, aside from texting her his demands, she was free of his constant presence, and once she got to see more of the beauty of the Wilde Ranch, and sexy rancher, Jax, her artistic juices reactivated and so did her sex life.
But, like all good novels of romantic suspense, there's trouble to come, painful secrets to be revealed, and up close and personal danger ahead. To say more would would spoil this novel for you, so I'll just state that, as usual, Ms. Ryan has written a novel with all the feels, lots of romance memorable characters, and steamy scenes, but I would have preferred a bit more suspense, and a more detailed and drawn out denouement, nevertheless this novel was still a solid and satisfying read.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel and the opinions stated are my own.
March 27, 2024
Wilde for You is another book by Jennifer Ryan that kept me up reading well past my bedtime. Whether it's contemporary romance, romantic suspense, or women's fiction, this author has the ability to pull me into her stories and hold tight until I turn the last page. Even then, her characters linger in my mind for days after finishing their story.
This is the second book in Ryan's Dark Horse Dive Bar series and one of my favorites from this author. She always brings her western settings to life on the page but especially so in Wilde for You. Maybe it's because Layla is an artist and we see the scenery through her eyes but I found the sense of place to be exceptionally immersive and vividly depicted. I felt like I was right there with her as Jax showed her all the special places on his ranch, absorbing the soul-stirring majesty of nature's beauty.
The setting wasn't the only thing that captured my attention. Ryan has given readers a cast of characters I want to be friends with. I love the Wilde family and am totally invested in their happiness and well being. I want to stay at one of the cabins on their ranch, ride horses, go fishing, and dance the night away at their bar. These are characters it's fun to be around, characters who make me feel good, which is a large part of why it was so heartwarming to watch Layla be absorbed into the warmth of their family after coming through her two years of grief.
Ryan excels at weaving suspense into her stories, as is the case with Wilde for You. I liked that that portion of the story didn't show up until later in the book, devoting necessary time to growing the relationship between Jax and Layla before introducing the danger. Once it became part of the story though, I was on my toes trying to figure out what was going on and who was behind it.
If you enjoy contemporary romance with a western flavor, a thread of suspense, and a couple it's easy to cheer for, pick up a copy of Wilde for You. I loved it.
While Wilde for You is the second book in a series, it stands well on its own. You should be aware, however, that Lyric and Mason (the main couple from book one, Wilde Love, feature prominently in this book as well.
Content warning: suicide, abortion, miscarriage, adultery (all occur off page and before the story begins)
ARC received from publisher
Fair and unbiased review
This is the second book in Ryan's Dark Horse Dive Bar series and one of my favorites from this author. She always brings her western settings to life on the page but especially so in Wilde for You. Maybe it's because Layla is an artist and we see the scenery through her eyes but I found the sense of place to be exceptionally immersive and vividly depicted. I felt like I was right there with her as Jax showed her all the special places on his ranch, absorbing the soul-stirring majesty of nature's beauty.
The setting wasn't the only thing that captured my attention. Ryan has given readers a cast of characters I want to be friends with. I love the Wilde family and am totally invested in their happiness and well being. I want to stay at one of the cabins on their ranch, ride horses, go fishing, and dance the night away at their bar. These are characters it's fun to be around, characters who make me feel good, which is a large part of why it was so heartwarming to watch Layla be absorbed into the warmth of their family after coming through her two years of grief.
Ryan excels at weaving suspense into her stories, as is the case with Wilde for You. I liked that that portion of the story didn't show up until later in the book, devoting necessary time to growing the relationship between Jax and Layla before introducing the danger. Once it became part of the story though, I was on my toes trying to figure out what was going on and who was behind it.
If you enjoy contemporary romance with a western flavor, a thread of suspense, and a couple it's easy to cheer for, pick up a copy of Wilde for You. I loved it.
While Wilde for You is the second book in a series, it stands well on its own. You should be aware, however, that Lyric and Mason (the main couple from book one, Wilde Love, feature prominently in this book as well.
Content warning: suicide, abortion, miscarriage, adultery (all occur off page and before the story begins)
ARC received from publisher
Fair and unbiased review
October 16, 2023
At this point, I would only ever be shocked if a Jennifer Ryan novel was anything less than amazing. Because once again, she got me sucked into this story and loving everything about it. I am going to be swooning over Jax and how incredible of a character he is. Always putting his family first, no matter the cost to himself. But he never allows them to feel like they are a burden or as if the ranch and bar is too much work. There was so much depth to his character that was learned as the book went on, and it only made Jax more endearing. He has hurts that he has kept to himself for so long and Layla is a huge part of why he was able to begin opening up and moving past those hurts.
Layla was going through so much. She was repeatedly put through the emotional wringer. So all she was looking for was a quiet escape to work on some commissioned paintings along with some additional art work for a show. And she deserved some quiet time. But what she deserved even more was someone to show her how important she is and how easy to love she is. Along with someone who understands her work and how it is so easy for her to get lost in it. Which is exactly what she got with Jax. He never got upset with her for losing herself and track of time when she was feeling inspired and painting away. More than that, he loved how immersed she became when she was working on a painting.
The romance between Layla and Jax was written so well, I honestly think I would have been good with it being strictly romance. But I'm also a sucker for suspense, so I'm glad that was there as well. When Layla starts having some troubles from someone who clearly has an issue with her, Jax doesn't hesitate to step in and do whatever is necessary to ensure she is safe. I did not expect the ending and I think there were some really good twists along the way as well. I strongly recommend this book along with Jennifer Ryan's other books!
Layla was going through so much. She was repeatedly put through the emotional wringer. So all she was looking for was a quiet escape to work on some commissioned paintings along with some additional art work for a show. And she deserved some quiet time. But what she deserved even more was someone to show her how important she is and how easy to love she is. Along with someone who understands her work and how it is so easy for her to get lost in it. Which is exactly what she got with Jax. He never got upset with her for losing herself and track of time when she was feeling inspired and painting away. More than that, he loved how immersed she became when she was working on a painting.
The romance between Layla and Jax was written so well, I honestly think I would have been good with it being strictly romance. But I'm also a sucker for suspense, so I'm glad that was there as well. When Layla starts having some troubles from someone who clearly has an issue with her, Jax doesn't hesitate to step in and do whatever is necessary to ensure she is safe. I did not expect the ending and I think there were some really good twists along the way as well. I strongly recommend this book along with Jennifer Ryan's other books!
April 3, 2024
Layla was recently widowed but now wants to move on with her life. She wants to rediscover her passion, so she takes a contract to complete a painting for a wealthy client. What she doesn't expect is to fall in love with Wyoming and a hard-working rancher. Jax works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. He has no time for a relationship, and he sees no end in sight for how much work he has. He certainly doesn't expect to fall for the artist staying on his family's ranch. They seem like opposites but maybe they are the perfect balance. Can they find out who is threatening Layla before it's too late? Can they figure out how to make a life together?
The author made a good choice making Layla a recent widow. That decision gave Layla a chance to grow from sadness to happiness. It was a nice growth curve. I thought her falling in love with Wyoming and Jax was believable. The story of her relationship with her husband was good and really showed Layla’s strength. The search for her tormentor was good and also really believable. I was totally invested in her finding happiness. Jax had so much room to grow and change. I like Jax and his commitment to his family and businesses. I thought his attraction to Layla was believable as was how he got to know her slowly. I was rooting for him to find a balance between his businesses and his life. The side characters added to the story. I really like the setting.
The bad guy wasn’t my favorite part of the story. I don’t want to give too much away because it is integral to the relationship between Layla and Jax. I felt like the author could do more with it somehow, but I can’t quite pinpoint what.
This is a contemporary romance set primarily in Wyoming. The main characters are both adults with busy and demanding careers. This book can be read as a stand-alone although why when there’s more to read? I will definitely read more from the author in the future.
The author made a good choice making Layla a recent widow. That decision gave Layla a chance to grow from sadness to happiness. It was a nice growth curve. I thought her falling in love with Wyoming and Jax was believable. The story of her relationship with her husband was good and really showed Layla’s strength. The search for her tormentor was good and also really believable. I was totally invested in her finding happiness. Jax had so much room to grow and change. I like Jax and his commitment to his family and businesses. I thought his attraction to Layla was believable as was how he got to know her slowly. I was rooting for him to find a balance between his businesses and his life. The side characters added to the story. I really like the setting.
The bad guy wasn’t my favorite part of the story. I don’t want to give too much away because it is integral to the relationship between Layla and Jax. I felt like the author could do more with it somehow, but I can’t quite pinpoint what.
This is a contemporary romance set primarily in Wyoming. The main characters are both adults with busy and demanding careers. This book can be read as a stand-alone although why when there’s more to read? I will definitely read more from the author in the future.
March 6, 2024
4 Stars Wilde for You by Jennifer Ryan is a small town, second chance at love, instalove, cowboy romance that will give you all the warm and fuzzies 🥰
Renowned landscape artist Layla Brock arrives at the Wilde Wind Ranch in Wyoming ready to start a new life and move on from her husband's betrayal and subsequent death. Jax Wilde has been running himself ragged working at both his family's ranch and the Dark Horse Dive Bar he runs with his sisters, using both as an escape ever since his ex-girlfriend betrayed him years ago. The second Layla and Jax lock eyes, there's an immediate need for them to get to know one another better and an instant connection that feels like they've known each other forever. Jax and Layla seem like a perfect match and though everyone can see and feel it, they are both wary given their past relationships but eager to give it a try. When an unknown threat to Layla arises, Jax will do anything to keep her safe by his side.
Instalove as a trope can be a hit or a miss for me and I think Jennifer Ryan handled this one really well. As a reader, you could feel their visceral attraction to one another and the yearning to know each other at the deepest levels. I think what set this instalove story apart is that the main characters actively questioned these immediate strong feelings and whether they were real. It definitely doesn't feel so realistic when the characters in a novel dismiss the strangeness of that short of instant attraction and deep feelings. I loved Layla and Jax as a couple, especially their realness with each other. There was no holding back the truth and both were upfront with their feelings, hiding nothing from the other after the betrayals they've faced in the past. This was a beautiful story of a second chance at love for both characters and I loved the twist at the end with the mysterious threat towards Layla.
Renowned landscape artist Layla Brock arrives at the Wilde Wind Ranch in Wyoming ready to start a new life and move on from her husband's betrayal and subsequent death. Jax Wilde has been running himself ragged working at both his family's ranch and the Dark Horse Dive Bar he runs with his sisters, using both as an escape ever since his ex-girlfriend betrayed him years ago. The second Layla and Jax lock eyes, there's an immediate need for them to get to know one another better and an instant connection that feels like they've known each other forever. Jax and Layla seem like a perfect match and though everyone can see and feel it, they are both wary given their past relationships but eager to give it a try. When an unknown threat to Layla arises, Jax will do anything to keep her safe by his side.
Instalove as a trope can be a hit or a miss for me and I think Jennifer Ryan handled this one really well. As a reader, you could feel their visceral attraction to one another and the yearning to know each other at the deepest levels. I think what set this instalove story apart is that the main characters actively questioned these immediate strong feelings and whether they were real. It definitely doesn't feel so realistic when the characters in a novel dismiss the strangeness of that short of instant attraction and deep feelings. I loved Layla and Jax as a couple, especially their realness with each other. There was no holding back the truth and both were upfront with their feelings, hiding nothing from the other after the betrayals they've faced in the past. This was a beautiful story of a second chance at love for both characters and I loved the twist at the end with the mysterious threat towards Layla.
March 24, 2024
I'm a huge fan of Ryan's books. She packs so much within the pages of her stories that you feel you can't put the book down for fear of missing something. For me this one is a bit different from her past books. It's a little bit more about Jax and Layla and less about the suspense. I have to say, I really liked that for a change. Sure, we still have the suspense but in most of her past books it's pretty heavy. Not so much for me with this one.
Layla is such a lovely person, and you'll love her. She has been done dirty but her husband and is trying to start again somewhere new. She needs to heal from all her dead husband put her through. I love how she struggled between being mad at him and remembering how much she used to love him. Add a childish brother-in-law and you really feel for her.
You'll also feel bad for Jax. Of course, some of his issues are of his own making. He works to hard and feels the need to do it all by himself. In part because he is running away from life and the need to make sure it's all done. He also has a secret that's been weighing on him.
So much goes on in the story and I will say I really enjoyed it. There are some really cute moments within the story that I really enjoyed. All around this is a wonderful story that I was so happy to read.
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ARC received for an honest review
March 25, 2024
Wilde for You by Jennifer Ryan is a steamy contemporary cowboy romance featuring rich and famous artist, Layla Brooks and rancher and bar owner, Jax Wilde. Jax’ parents owned Wilde Wind Ranch but Jax mostly had the running of it. He worked twenty hours a day between it and the family bar, Dark Horse Dive Bar, which he ran with his three sisters working at both spots. Lyric was a singer/songwriter and she was good. She sang at the bar often. She also had a boyfriend, Mason, who was an FBI agent and loved her to death. Jax was sick of being alone. He had broken up with Helen several years earlier after a major betrayal and had only very casual relationships since then. When he saw Layla, he knew. She was for him. But, she was a widow. Was she ready? She had been brought to Wyoming by her manager and best friend, April, for two reasons: she had a commission that required this scenery and she needed to heal from her husband’s suicide.
To say Jax is an overachiever is ridiculous. He invented the term. Layla was much the same. April had purchased a small building and sent it on ahead for Jax to build for use as Layla’s studio. That had never happened before, but she was writing big checks so he was all in. Things progressed between them. There were some hurdles but what ever goes smoothly? This was a very hot book with plenty of interaction. Jax whole family was happy as it had been a while for him. They liked him happy. The two had a good relationship, opening up more and more as time went on. It was a wonderful romance, as only Jennifer Ryan can write. There was an element of thriller in it as well, which just added to the spice. Loved every minute of it. Thanks, Jennifer Ryan!
I was invited to read Wilde for You by Avon and Harper Voyager. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #AvonAndHarperVoyager #JenniferRyan #WildeForYou
To say Jax is an overachiever is ridiculous. He invented the term. Layla was much the same. April had purchased a small building and sent it on ahead for Jax to build for use as Layla’s studio. That had never happened before, but she was writing big checks so he was all in. Things progressed between them. There were some hurdles but what ever goes smoothly? This was a very hot book with plenty of interaction. Jax whole family was happy as it had been a while for him. They liked him happy. The two had a good relationship, opening up more and more as time went on. It was a wonderful romance, as only Jennifer Ryan can write. There was an element of thriller in it as well, which just added to the spice. Loved every minute of it. Thanks, Jennifer Ryan!
I was invited to read Wilde for You by Avon and Harper Voyager. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #AvonAndHarperVoyager #JenniferRyan #WildeForYou
October 18, 2023
I'm a fan of Jennifer Ryan so I knew this series would be good but I didn't know how much I would love everything about this installment in the series.
It is a wonderful story full of strong and lovable characters that you really get to know like friends throughout the story. In that way it is a typical Jennifer Ryan masterpiece but I want to tell you what is different about this book than other romances out there.
One of the highlights for me was the horse, Moon. I'm an animal lover and this story elevated the view on animals in a way of true understanding of their spirit. Layla bonds with the horse immediately and as a painter she is inspired to make her into a work of art. She paints Moon in a way that the soul of this horse leaps off the page and grabs you by the heart.
The story really stands out from others because of the beautiful backdrop of the setting. The views are described with passion from someone who clearly knows what it is like to appreciate the beauty of nature and how it is healing for the soul. It is truly uplifting to read and you can see the images in your head as if you were there.
The descriptions of the paintings that Layla does are so vivid that my only regret while reading this is that I couldn't see them for myself.
All of this that sets this book apart is wrapped up in a wonderfully spun story about overcoming your past and finding your future with someone who will love you unconditionally for all that you are. Layla and Jax have a love that steams off the page and you will devour this with a desire for the next installment to hurry up and come out so you can immerse yourself back in the Dark Horse Dive Bar world.
It is a wonderful story full of strong and lovable characters that you really get to know like friends throughout the story. In that way it is a typical Jennifer Ryan masterpiece but I want to tell you what is different about this book than other romances out there.
One of the highlights for me was the horse, Moon. I'm an animal lover and this story elevated the view on animals in a way of true understanding of their spirit. Layla bonds with the horse immediately and as a painter she is inspired to make her into a work of art. She paints Moon in a way that the soul of this horse leaps off the page and grabs you by the heart.
The story really stands out from others because of the beautiful backdrop of the setting. The views are described with passion from someone who clearly knows what it is like to appreciate the beauty of nature and how it is healing for the soul. It is truly uplifting to read and you can see the images in your head as if you were there.
The descriptions of the paintings that Layla does are so vivid that my only regret while reading this is that I couldn't see them for myself.
All of this that sets this book apart is wrapped up in a wonderfully spun story about overcoming your past and finding your future with someone who will love you unconditionally for all that you are. Layla and Jax have a love that steams off the page and you will devour this with a desire for the next installment to hurry up and come out so you can immerse yourself back in the Dark Horse Dive Bar world.
October 13, 2023
Once again Ryan writes about some tough topics within this book you are dealing with abortion and suicide. Ryan’s novels also include an element of suspense and plenty of romance which she is known for. I couldn’t wait to read Jennifer Ryan’s latest because she is one of my favorite romance writers. It didn’t disappoint and I read it in one night. This is the second in the series of the “Dark Horse Dive Bar” in Wyoming but can be read as standalone. I love her descriptions of Wilde’s Ranch and her paintings. You were able to picture the beautiful and breathtaking scenery in Wyoming. Layla Brock has been commissioned to paint a Wyoming scene for a wealthy LA producer. Her Agent and best friend April booked her stay at the Wilde’s Ranch. When Layla arrived at the ranch, she couldn’t believe the view and couldn’t wait to get started painting. This is a first since her husband’s tragic death. But not only did she find the view of the ranch beautiful, but she fell for Jex Wilde as soon as she saw him. This begins a wonderful romance for two people that have been hurt in their past. When Layla’s house was broken into, car tires were slashed, and her portraits were stolen that is when Jax realizes that someone is treating the woman he loves. Pick up and read this book to find out what happens between Layla and Jax and does Jax find out who is threatening Layla. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for providing an advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2024
Wilde for You is the second Dark Horse Dive Bar novel by Jennifer Ryan. Centered around the Dark Horse Dive Bar and the Wilde Wind ranch, both owned by the Wilde family, this story revolves around Jax Wilde, only son of the family. A single workaholic, Jax hasn’t been involved in a relationship for years, ever since his former girlfriend’s betrayal. His family is concerned about the hours Jax puts in, both on the ranch and at the bar.
Layla Brock, a Southern California widow, is a renowned artist specializing in large landscapes. Putting the trauma of her estranged husband’s death behind her, Layla travels to Blackrock Falls, Wyoming, near her patron’s getaway. Having rented one of the cabins at Wilde Wind ranch and having a structure built to house her art studio, Layla arrives with her best friend/business agent April Hendrix. Awaiting the guest’s arrival, Jax and his sister greet the new visitor. When Layla gets out of the vehicle and meets Jax’s perfect blue eyes the connection is almost palpable.
In the days and weeks to come, Layla and Jax begin something special. First, through the activities April had signed Layla up to do, then through other meetings, including dinner, drinks, and dancing at the Dark Horse. As the story unfolds, criminal acts are committed against Layla’s California home, her rented vehicle, and her new studio. Already together, these incidents bring them even closer.
This was another well written story and part of an excellent series. I did enjoy this book and I do recommend it!
Layla Brock, a Southern California widow, is a renowned artist specializing in large landscapes. Putting the trauma of her estranged husband’s death behind her, Layla travels to Blackrock Falls, Wyoming, near her patron’s getaway. Having rented one of the cabins at Wilde Wind ranch and having a structure built to house her art studio, Layla arrives with her best friend/business agent April Hendrix. Awaiting the guest’s arrival, Jax and his sister greet the new visitor. When Layla gets out of the vehicle and meets Jax’s perfect blue eyes the connection is almost palpable.
In the days and weeks to come, Layla and Jax begin something special. First, through the activities April had signed Layla up to do, then through other meetings, including dinner, drinks, and dancing at the Dark Horse. As the story unfolds, criminal acts are committed against Layla’s California home, her rented vehicle, and her new studio. Already together, these incidents bring them even closer.
This was another well written story and part of an excellent series. I did enjoy this book and I do recommend it!
May 10, 2024
Jax’s life is all about work. He spends his day working the Wilde Wind Ranch. His nights are spent managing the Dark Horse Dive Bar. A bitter betrayal by the woman he cared about crushed any interest he had in dating.
Layla Brock knows what betrayal feels like. She was on the verge of divorcing her husband after discovering his startling secrets when he was killed in a freak accident. Now she lives for her art. A commission for a wealthy client brings her to Wyoming. Jax is happy to provide her a quiet, comfortable place where she can bring the beauty of the area to life on canvas.
Upon first meeting Jax and Layla feel a comfortable rapport. While Layla wants to get lost in her painting, she surprises herself by taking the time to get to know Jax, who, for his part, finds himself ignoring the work he's supposed to be doing. Instead, he takes to looking for excuses to spend time with Layla.
Both Jax and Layla are still fighting a sense of despair from their individual betrayals and the grief at what they lost. While neither feels ready for another relationship, in each other they recognize a kindred spirit. This allows for a natural development of the relationship and is the main reason the relationship feels natural.
I’ve been a fan of Jennifer Ryan since I first read her Hunted series. I can always count on her for escape into a warm, sweet romance with a fair dose of suspense. That’s just what this story delivers.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for a copy of this book. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
Layla Brock knows what betrayal feels like. She was on the verge of divorcing her husband after discovering his startling secrets when he was killed in a freak accident. Now she lives for her art. A commission for a wealthy client brings her to Wyoming. Jax is happy to provide her a quiet, comfortable place where she can bring the beauty of the area to life on canvas.
Upon first meeting Jax and Layla feel a comfortable rapport. While Layla wants to get lost in her painting, she surprises herself by taking the time to get to know Jax, who, for his part, finds himself ignoring the work he's supposed to be doing. Instead, he takes to looking for excuses to spend time with Layla.
Both Jax and Layla are still fighting a sense of despair from their individual betrayals and the grief at what they lost. While neither feels ready for another relationship, in each other they recognize a kindred spirit. This allows for a natural development of the relationship and is the main reason the relationship feels natural.
I’ve been a fan of Jennifer Ryan since I first read her Hunted series. I can always count on her for escape into a warm, sweet romance with a fair dose of suspense. That’s just what this story delivers.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for a copy of this book. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 10, 2023
The Dark Horse Dive Bar series has easily become one of my favorite new series of the year. I love a hot and sexy cowboy story but Jennifer Ryan takes steamy rancher romance and elevates it to the next level. Ryan writes emotionally packed stories, adding in the element of suspense, and never shies away from writing about the tough topics.
Layla Brock is attempting to start her life fresh after her husbands tragic death. A very successful landscape artist, she takes a commission in Wyoming for an extremely wealthy LA producer. She finds herself renting a cabin at the Wilde Wind Ranch, owned by the incredibly sexy Jax Wilde. Once the two set eyes on each other there is an immediate sizzle, instant attraction. But, Jax is a workaholic and burning the candle at both ends. Not only does he run and manage the Wilde Wind Ranch, he also oversees the rental cabins on the property and is part owner in the Dark Horse Dive Bar with his three sisters. Both Layla and Jax have a lot of baggage to unload if they want to move into the future.
Jennifer Ryan does an amazing job painting a beautiful picture of the Wilde Wind Ranch; I was able to visualize the scenery and the animals in vivid detail. All of the characters in this series have been relatable and completely lovable. They have flaws but are also so altruistic I can't help but fall in love with each of them. Jax's poor life to work ratio is so relatable, he seriously made me question my life.
Layla Brock is attempting to start her life fresh after her husbands tragic death. A very successful landscape artist, she takes a commission in Wyoming for an extremely wealthy LA producer. She finds herself renting a cabin at the Wilde Wind Ranch, owned by the incredibly sexy Jax Wilde. Once the two set eyes on each other there is an immediate sizzle, instant attraction. But, Jax is a workaholic and burning the candle at both ends. Not only does he run and manage the Wilde Wind Ranch, he also oversees the rental cabins on the property and is part owner in the Dark Horse Dive Bar with his three sisters. Both Layla and Jax have a lot of baggage to unload if they want to move into the future.
Jennifer Ryan does an amazing job painting a beautiful picture of the Wilde Wind Ranch; I was able to visualize the scenery and the animals in vivid detail. All of the characters in this series have been relatable and completely lovable. They have flaws but are also so altruistic I can't help but fall in love with each of them. Jax's poor life to work ratio is so relatable, he seriously made me question my life.
March 20, 2024
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the second book in the series - and I loved it!
The moment Jax and Layla see each other, they are smitten, and somehow the filter is off and they tell each other how they feel - completely out of character for both of them, but they just can't help it ... such fun and original when most books thrive on lack of communication.
That is not to say that they don't have issues from their past relationships, and struggle to trust, but they both recognise that this is special and so are patient with each other and affirm their attraction and constancy.
I found Layla's artist's eye a refreshing way for us to imagine Wyoming, and the beauty around her - this is undoubtedly down to the talent of the author, that this is so vivid and compelling. I liked the touch about not being her work until she signs it, and that happens only as she is about to deliver the work. It was such a strong contrast to Jax's world of running a working and holiday ranch and a lively bar with his family.
This was a really good story with lots of layers , with a passionate romance for a super hot and sexy couple at the middle of it.
This is the second book in the series - and I loved it!
The moment Jax and Layla see each other, they are smitten, and somehow the filter is off and they tell each other how they feel - completely out of character for both of them, but they just can't help it ... such fun and original when most books thrive on lack of communication.
That is not to say that they don't have issues from their past relationships, and struggle to trust, but they both recognise that this is special and so are patient with each other and affirm their attraction and constancy.
I found Layla's artist's eye a refreshing way for us to imagine Wyoming, and the beauty around her - this is undoubtedly down to the talent of the author, that this is so vivid and compelling. I liked the touch about not being her work until she signs it, and that happens only as she is about to deliver the work. It was such a strong contrast to Jax's world of running a working and holiday ranch and a lively bar with his family.
This was a really good story with lots of layers , with a passionate romance for a super hot and sexy couple at the middle of it.
April 1, 2024
Tough on the outside, with a heart as big as Wyoming. Protective to the core, fairness and kindness running in blood. And when the tough have to wage a battle for love, heart and soul takes to the knees. Let’s meet the Wilde cousins running the Dark Horse Dive Bar.
Jax Wilde loves his close knit family, his ranch and the Dark Horse Dive Bar that has been in the family. A cowboy to the core and grateful for what was given to him, he never realized what was missing in his life until Layla Brock stepped onto his ranch and into his life.
Landscape artist and widowed Layla Brock is mesmerized by the vast Wyoming beauty and even more enamored by the kindhearted cowboy. As much as she’s attracted to Jax, she comes with a baggage of secrets that she intends to take to her grave.
Two beautiful souls, hearts filled with hope and love, Jax and Layla let the spark of attraction ignite into a fire that has no intention of dying down. With Jax and his family as her protection, Layla will fight every evil shadow that is dogging her.
Every story that Jennifer Ryan pens, is always a surprise read for me as she plots and narrates with intense insight. Just when I think they can’t get any better, she weaves a stunning story of two people, hearts as big as the Wyoming sky and pure as snow, as they vow to battle any demons that come their way.
An alluring story!!
Jax Wilde loves his close knit family, his ranch and the Dark Horse Dive Bar that has been in the family. A cowboy to the core and grateful for what was given to him, he never realized what was missing in his life until Layla Brock stepped onto his ranch and into his life.
Landscape artist and widowed Layla Brock is mesmerized by the vast Wyoming beauty and even more enamored by the kindhearted cowboy. As much as she’s attracted to Jax, she comes with a baggage of secrets that she intends to take to her grave.
Two beautiful souls, hearts filled with hope and love, Jax and Layla let the spark of attraction ignite into a fire that has no intention of dying down. With Jax and his family as her protection, Layla will fight every evil shadow that is dogging her.
Every story that Jennifer Ryan pens, is always a surprise read for me as she plots and narrates with intense insight. Just when I think they can’t get any better, she weaves a stunning story of two people, hearts as big as the Wyoming sky and pure as snow, as they vow to battle any demons that come their way.
An alluring story!!
November 7, 2023
This was the second book in the Dark Horse Dive Bar Series. Jax is the only boy among the 4 Wilde siblings. He is fully devoted to work. While he longs for a solid lasting relationship like his parents and Mason and Lyric have found, he has trust issues with past relationships so he focuses on taking care of the ranch and working at the bar to fill his time. Layla is a painter. We learn early on that she is newly widowed looking for a fresh start, but there were many issues in her marriage. When Layla retreats to the Wilde Ranch to paint and find peace she meets Jax and there is instant attraction. Within a few days they are finding time to hang out more and getting closer. I liked their relationship. One thing I have noticed about Jennifer Ryan is she is great at writing solid relationships with good communication. They have such respect for one another. I love how Jax was always okay when Layla was in the zone painting. There were many small moments that really made this book, and relationship come together. I will say, for me this book felt a bit insta love. They had known each other for two days and were practically together. The suspense and secrets were good throughout the book. I like how not everything was revealed at once. I am really curious who will get the next book in the series. It seems it could be Melody but I am still secretly hoping for Arai, and Masons brother/fbi agent Nick.
Thank you NetGalley, Jennifer Ryan and Avon Harper Voyager for the free eArc in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you NetGalley, Jennifer Ryan and Avon Harper Voyager for the free eArc in exchange for an honest review!
October 10, 2023
Another wonderful rom-suspense from one of my all-time favorite authors!
I could barely wait to start Wilde for You, the second book in the Dark Horse Dive Bar series, and honestly, I'm not sorry I dived in ASAP. (Well, except that I now have to wait for the next book...) It was just what I hope for and expect from Jennifer Ryan—a sexy, tension-filled romance with a heaping dose of instalust, undeniable chemistry, and a bumpy course to HEA. I've said it before, but one of the things I love most about Ryan's books is how solid the couple becomes, facing their fears and foes together rather than running away from one another and their feelings. It applies here to Jax and Layla, and it kept a smile on face throughout.
With likable protagonists—both Jax and Layla were kind, loving, and deserving of a happy ending—and a hint of mystery surrounding Layla's past, there was more than enough happening to engage my interest and my heart, and I know that I'll be re-reading this one before too long. And side note for those who haven't read Wilde Love: you can still jump in here if you want but Mason and Lyric have a great story too!
I could barely wait to start Wilde for You, the second book in the Dark Horse Dive Bar series, and honestly, I'm not sorry I dived in ASAP. (Well, except that I now have to wait for the next book...) It was just what I hope for and expect from Jennifer Ryan—a sexy, tension-filled romance with a heaping dose of instalust, undeniable chemistry, and a bumpy course to HEA. I've said it before, but one of the things I love most about Ryan's books is how solid the couple becomes, facing their fears and foes together rather than running away from one another and their feelings. It applies here to Jax and Layla, and it kept a smile on face throughout.
With likable protagonists—both Jax and Layla were kind, loving, and deserving of a happy ending—and a hint of mystery surrounding Layla's past, there was more than enough happening to engage my interest and my heart, and I know that I'll be re-reading this one before too long. And side note for those who haven't read Wilde Love: you can still jump in here if you want but Mason and Lyric have a great story too!
March 26, 2024
This is one of those stories that when you are finished, you “sigh” and want to read it all over again. Artist Layla Brock is recovering from the death of her husband and the damage that he left behind. She needs to get away from the memories and his brother who has continued to harass her. Arriving at Wilde Wind Ranch, she feels as if she has found the beauty that was missing from her life. Meeting the owner, Jax Wilde, is giving her thoughts that she should not be having so soon after her husband’s death. Jax is immediately attracted to Layla. He has always wanted to find that someone special for him, is Layla that someone? As he works closely with her, he begins to yearn for the permanency that he has never desired. Layla has never met someone like him, so caring and a man who gives his all for his family and community. Introduced to his “family” at the Dark Horse Dive Bar adds a new dimension to her work and life, but trouble seems to have followed her to Wyoming, but who and why? A book that I couldn’t put down until the very end! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
November 25, 2023
This was a wonderful story Layla had lost her husband a year ago and was finally ready to move on. She had taken a commission for a painting in Wyoming and was going to stay indefinitely. She had a studio built that was open glass that she could see out and have lots of light. When she arrived at the ranch, Jax was struck dumb with her, not just her looks but just her She was the same. Her manager, April, saw the attraction they both had and told her to go for it. It took awhile but they both finally acted on it. Then her house in CA was vandalized, her tires were slashed and then all of her paintings were stolen. She thought at first it was her husband's brother, but it turned out it was not him. He had been angry with her but finally understood what had happened. It was quite dramatic when they found out who was doing these things. The ending was perfect as she wanted to start a life with him, and he wanted her to be happy A very good story
i got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
i got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
February 12, 2024
The readers are taken to Wyoming where the landscape is beautiful and where the Wilde family owns a working and tourist ranch as well as a bar.
Jax Wilde loves his family and willingly works long hours in the ranch and the bar. For him, family is everything.
After his girlfriend deeply betrayed him, he is not interested in any relationships. That is, until the beautiful , famous, landscape artist books one of their cabins for an extended stay. Layla Brock is looking forward to painting, and enjoying the openness of the land. She needs this, especially after the betrayal and death of her husband.
As these two navigate their new relationship, external forces are creating havoc. Will they figure out who is after Layla and why?
This was an entertaining story about family, new beginnings, forgiveness, hope and second chances in life and love.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Jax Wilde loves his family and willingly works long hours in the ranch and the bar. For him, family is everything.
After his girlfriend deeply betrayed him, he is not interested in any relationships. That is, until the beautiful , famous, landscape artist books one of their cabins for an extended stay. Layla Brock is looking forward to painting, and enjoying the openness of the land. She needs this, especially after the betrayal and death of her husband.
As these two navigate their new relationship, external forces are creating havoc. Will they figure out who is after Layla and why?
This was an entertaining story about family, new beginnings, forgiveness, hope and second chances in life and love.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 5, 2024
Wilde for You by Jennifer Ryan was my first experience reading this author’s work and even though I didn’t read the first book in this series, I had no problem catching on to the characters. I have to say, though, that I’m quite interested in reading about Lyric and Mason in Book #1 after getting to know them in this book! I thought the descriptive narrative of Wyoming was spectacular – I could picture in my mind the incredible views that Layla captured in her artistic creations. I’m generally not a fan of insta-love, but this one came together in a very organic and enjoyable way. As I said, getting to know Mason and Lyric and Jax’s sisters added to the enjoyment. The last third of the book really grabbed me and pulled me in – I love romantic suspense and this part of the read was really well done. I look forward to reading more from this author. I'm very grateful to have been given an opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book through NetGalley.
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