What do you think?
Rate this book
Rivers Wilde #3.8
The Wild Card
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Dylan Allen continues the Rivers Wilde series with a neighbors-to-lovers second-chance romance.
A billionaire with family secrets looking for a fresh start.
A reformed jewel thief.
And a choice that changes everything.
Leo has two priorities: putting down new roots and making up for his mistakes.
He doesn’t have time for a blind date with his new neighbor.
Until he finds out she’s the woman he let slip away…but never forgot.
Cassie has finally paid her debts and is living the life she’s always wanted.
Her new neighbor sounds like he could be Mr. Right.
Only, he turns out to be the man who promised her the world then disappeared without a trace.
In another time and another place, he was a playboy who made her believe in miracles.
Now, he’s a danger to everything she’s worked hard for.
He wants to pick up where they left off.
She wants to keep her distance.
But when they’re together, their chemistry is undeniable.
The heat between them burns hot and fast.
Until a secret whips up a fire that threatens to engulf them all.
* *Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.* *
A billionaire with family secrets looking for a fresh start.
A reformed jewel thief.
And a choice that changes everything.
Leo has two priorities: putting down new roots and making up for his mistakes.
He doesn’t have time for a blind date with his new neighbor.
Until he finds out she’s the woman he let slip away…but never forgot.
Cassie has finally paid her debts and is living the life she’s always wanted.
Her new neighbor sounds like he could be Mr. Right.
Only, he turns out to be the man who promised her the world then disappeared without a trace.
In another time and another place, he was a playboy who made her believe in miracles.
Now, he’s a danger to everything she’s worked hard for.
He wants to pick up where they left off.
She wants to keep her distance.
But when they’re together, their chemistry is undeniable.
The heat between them burns hot and fast.
Until a secret whips up a fire that threatens to engulf them all.
* *Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.* *
158 pages, Paperback
Published January 16, 2024
About the author
Dylan Allen
38 books2,503 followersI'm an independent author of contemporary romance novels.
I love staying in touch with readers! You can follow me at all of these places.
➜Follow Dylan on: Website: www.dylanallenbooks.com Instagram: @dylanallenromance
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authordylana...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/dylan...
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tpN6TF Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vj00QB
I love staying in touch with readers! You can follow me at all of these places.
➜Follow Dylan on: Website: www.dylanallenbooks.com Instagram: @dylanallenromance
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authordylana...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/dylan...
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tpN6TF Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vj00QB
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
January 6, 2024
4.25 stars
Dylan Allen’s ‘River Wilde’ series is one of my favorites, so I was excited to get back into that world. Even though we get time with some of our favorites in this series, The Wild Card can 100% be read as a stand-alone.
Cassie meets Leo when she is on a job. A job she’s not proud of, but one she needs nonetheless. She doesn’t expect to meet this man and never expects to have feelings for him, but it happens. The first half of this book takes place when they first meet, the second half takes place years later in Rivers Wilde.
I enjoyed the atmosphere at the beginning of the book. The writing was beautiful, descriptive, and it felt like I was on that island too. I love watching two people organically fall for one another. I was so curious to see where it would go when the part of the book ended and I loved where it picked back up.
Cassie was such a boss heroine. I loved her. And Leo was fantastic as well. They both had such interesting back stories, with some in common but also grew up in very different worlds. I would have loved to have seen more of their backstory and definitely would have loved a little more insight to the time they were apart, but I know with a novella that can be hard to do.
Overall The Wild Card was an enjoyable, emotional, steamy, and well written novella that I highly recommend you check out!
Dylan Allen’s ‘River Wilde’ series is one of my favorites, so I was excited to get back into that world. Even though we get time with some of our favorites in this series, The Wild Card can 100% be read as a stand-alone.
Cassie meets Leo when she is on a job. A job she’s not proud of, but one she needs nonetheless. She doesn’t expect to meet this man and never expects to have feelings for him, but it happens. The first half of this book takes place when they first meet, the second half takes place years later in Rivers Wilde.
I enjoyed the atmosphere at the beginning of the book. The writing was beautiful, descriptive, and it felt like I was on that island too. I love watching two people organically fall for one another. I was so curious to see where it would go when the part of the book ended and I loved where it picked back up.
Cassie was such a boss heroine. I loved her. And Leo was fantastic as well. They both had such interesting back stories, with some in common but also grew up in very different worlds. I would have loved to have seen more of their backstory and definitely would have loved a little more insight to the time they were apart, but I know with a novella that can be hard to do.
Overall The Wild Card was an enjoyable, emotional, steamy, and well written novella that I highly recommend you check out!
January 24, 2025
The Wild Card by Dylan Allen was sensual and deeply emotional In every way possible. Cassie and Leo definitely set my Kindle on fire. This angsty story is a feast for every romance lover. With some fascinating layered characters, nuclear hot chemistry and heartaching feels delivered through Dylan Allen's beautiful writing..The Wild Card was an exceptional read.
Cassie has come a long away from her difficult family situation and made a name for herself. She had to to do some painful things on the way and those have left a mark on her heart. When her best friend Confidence tries to set her up with her husband's friend and the newest member of Rivers Wilde community..she didn't expect her past tp stand in front of her. She met Leo years ago in Seychelles under very different circumstances. She desperately wants to ask for forgiveness but will Leo give her the chance when the truth comes out?
Dylan Allen always gives us flawed but strong and inspiring characters and I love that about her stories. Take Leo. On surface, he has the power and money and influence. But he doesn't have the thing that matters most and that is love and acceptance from his father's family. He fought with the shame and the anger for so long. His surprise daughter gave him a lot of peace. But he still has this emptiness. My heart breaks for this man who is so enigmatic, charismatic, deliciously alpha and yet so lost. Then comes Cassie. She did what she had to do to survive and protect her family. She met Leo at a crossroads and she had to run away after spending some magical blissful days in Seychelles..before they could become something more. Now life has given them a second chance. Cassie is such a strong character with scars and pain. She is fierce when needed and soft when the time calls for. They are both wounded souls but together, they make the perfect sense. It was an emotional rollercoaster that was also full of slow burn spice. I am sucker for a well written second chance romance. And coming back to Rivers Wilde was just amazing. I love how Dylan Allen took me through exotic location and new cultures. There is a part of mystery and suspense that gave the story an extra edge!
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Cassie has come a long away from her difficult family situation and made a name for herself. She had to to do some painful things on the way and those have left a mark on her heart. When her best friend Confidence tries to set her up with her husband's friend and the newest member of Rivers Wilde community..she didn't expect her past tp stand in front of her. She met Leo years ago in Seychelles under very different circumstances. She desperately wants to ask for forgiveness but will Leo give her the chance when the truth comes out?
Dylan Allen always gives us flawed but strong and inspiring characters and I love that about her stories. Take Leo. On surface, he has the power and money and influence. But he doesn't have the thing that matters most and that is love and acceptance from his father's family. He fought with the shame and the anger for so long. His surprise daughter gave him a lot of peace. But he still has this emptiness. My heart breaks for this man who is so enigmatic, charismatic, deliciously alpha and yet so lost. Then comes Cassie. She did what she had to do to survive and protect her family. She met Leo at a crossroads and she had to run away after spending some magical blissful days in Seychelles..before they could become something more. Now life has given them a second chance. Cassie is such a strong character with scars and pain. She is fierce when needed and soft when the time calls for. They are both wounded souls but together, they make the perfect sense. It was an emotional rollercoaster that was also full of slow burn spice. I am sucker for a well written second chance romance. And coming back to Rivers Wilde was just amazing. I love how Dylan Allen took me through exotic location and new cultures. There is a part of mystery and suspense that gave the story an extra edge!
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
January 12, 2024
The Wild Card: A Rivers Wilde Novells (Rivers Wilde, #3.8) by Dylan Allen
4 stars
M/F Romance - second chance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This story spans a decade. You have Leo and Cassie have complicated paths behind them and in front of them.
Cassie needs this one last job to finally be able to be out from under debt. Leo is trying to live up to the family name that he was not truly allowed to belong to. Both are trying to find a connection, without losing what they’ve worked so hard for.
I really enjoyed Cassie’s character. She’s strong without being mean, sensitive when it matters and fierce when it comes to those she cares about.
Leo’s life has been privileged, but challenged. He is a complicated character. He wants to do right by his dad, but also knows that he’s kind of chasing ghosts.
These two together were steamy, but quick. It’s kind of an insta-love story, but it seems to fit these two.
You will want to both kiss and pound faces in this story and it is a fast paced, sweet story of love, forgiveness and family.
4 stars
M/F Romance - second chance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This story spans a decade. You have Leo and Cassie have complicated paths behind them and in front of them.
Cassie needs this one last job to finally be able to be out from under debt. Leo is trying to live up to the family name that he was not truly allowed to belong to. Both are trying to find a connection, without losing what they’ve worked so hard for.
I really enjoyed Cassie’s character. She’s strong without being mean, sensitive when it matters and fierce when it comes to those she cares about.
Leo’s life has been privileged, but challenged. He is a complicated character. He wants to do right by his dad, but also knows that he’s kind of chasing ghosts.
These two together were steamy, but quick. It’s kind of an insta-love story, but it seems to fit these two.
You will want to both kiss and pound faces in this story and it is a fast paced, sweet story of love, forgiveness and family.
January 13, 2024
A novella set in Dylan Allen’s Rivers Wild series, and I loved the concept of the plot with this book. A reformed jewel thief and a billionaire single dad being set up by mutual friends only to find out that they had history…... or they might’ve had if only he hadn’t blanked her. Now he can destroy the world she’s worked hard to create.
Told in two parts with the first part dealing with their initial meeting before jumping ten years into the future, The Wild Card had fantastic characters in Leo and Cassie and lots of deep, dark secrets on both sides especially the one Cassie knows she has to tell him but fears his reaction. I would’ve loved it if this book was extended to full novel length as I feel that the second part dealing with their reunion just went a little too fast and glossed over what had happened to them in the intervening years and and I would’ve loved more depth on both their backgrounds but especially Leo’s relationship with his father’s family.
Told in two parts with the first part dealing with their initial meeting before jumping ten years into the future, The Wild Card had fantastic characters in Leo and Cassie and lots of deep, dark secrets on both sides especially the one Cassie knows she has to tell him but fears his reaction. I would’ve loved it if this book was extended to full novel length as I feel that the second part dealing with their reunion just went a little too fast and glossed over what had happened to them in the intervening years and and I would’ve loved more depth on both their backgrounds but especially Leo’s relationship with his father’s family.
January 8, 2024
This was such a quick-paced, steamy book. Cassie is an international thief, and of course she gets too close to her final victim.
This story spans 10 years, beginning when they met and picking up 10 years later. It was an exciting story and engaging for how short it is. I have a hard time with novellas, but I felt really engaged with these characters.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This story spans 10 years, beginning when they met and picking up 10 years later. It was an exciting story and engaging for how short it is. I have a hard time with novellas, but I felt really engaged with these characters.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2024
Perfect!! Danger, mystery, romance ..... 🥰❤️💋
I am a fan of the Rivers Wilde series and this novella was the perfect addition to this ! Destination secret workplace. Cassie & Leo's story was needed!! How can you fall completely head over heels with someone who doesn't know the real you ? Billionaire with family secrets and a reformed Jewel Thief romance ? Yessssss workplace /vacation romances are my favorite, especially when there are family secrets and secret Identities involved. The setup had me kicking my feet with anticipation and Love for these two.
I am a fan of the Rivers Wilde series and this novella was the perfect addition to this ! Destination secret workplace. Cassie & Leo's story was needed!! How can you fall completely head over heels with someone who doesn't know the real you ? Billionaire with family secrets and a reformed Jewel Thief romance ? Yessssss workplace /vacation romances are my favorite, especially when there are family secrets and secret Identities involved. The setup had me kicking my feet with anticipation and Love for these two.
January 16, 2024
Amazon
Cassie wasn't proud of her job back when she first met Leo, but she was doing what she had to survive. She and Leo formed a connection and she's never forgotten the man. But now in her present they're back in each other's orbits, and she is finding she can't keep her big secret a secret any longer from the man she's in love with. So now she's faced with a decision: tell him and possibly lose him, or don't and always wonder when her past is going to catch up to her.
Leo's second chance with Cassie is in his grasp and he's not about to let her go. But this billionaire may be faced with having to let go when he finds out her big secret. He has always struggled with his family obligations, living up to them, to their name, gaining his father's approval, and all that is warring with the love he has for Cassie. If he has to choose between them, what choice will he make?
Second chance love stories are my jam, especially when they're like Leo and Cassie's - beautifully told with two scarred and strong individuals who find love together. Cassie is the kind of FMC I love most - strong and fierce but with a big heart. Leo is equally strong, equally scarred even though they were born into and live in two opposing worlds, and so alpha but with the gentle side he only shows certain people. I love the Rivers Wilde series, and am so happy that Cassie and Leo have been introduced into it. About the only thing I could ask for of Dylan for them is that she write more about them *hint hint*
ARC provided by the author for an honest review.
Review: Live Through Books Blog.
Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Bookbub
August 26, 2024
[5/5]
“My wild card has come up aces.”
HAPPY RELEASE DAY TO THIS LOVELY BLACK BILLIONAIRE HEIST ROMANCE NOVELLA!!! WHOOP WHOOP.
OH MY GOOD GAWLYYY. this was amazing and very much top tier.
first off, I just want to give my huge thanks to 1001 dark nights for providing me with this arc!! y’all are the best🫵
now, I wanna preface this by saying that this is not only my first Dylan allen book, but it is also the first book I have read from the rivers Wilde series and also potentially my first billionaire romance?!? (I KNOW I KNOW I NEED TO READ MORE) and this novella alone has convinced me that im truly missing out.
this novella follows Cassie, a thief, and Leo, a billionaire who she is attempting to steal from over the span of 10 years. the first half is set in Seychelles and the second half is 10 years later set in Houston suburbs.
from the very first moment they met, I knew I was going to be obsessed with them together. HE LITERALLY WAS SO DOWN BAD FOR HER AND I COULDNT GET ENOUGH OF IT.
don’t let me even get STARTED on the spice. WHEW. 😮💨😮💨AMAZING. AWESOME. SCREAMING. CRYING.
they’re just so iconic and adorable and i love them together so fucking much. Cassie deserves the absolute world and i adored how Leo was ready to give her that and more. we love Black billionaires around here if y’all didn’t know already.🫶🏾
i also loved Cassie’s friendship with Confidence and how refreshing it was!!! like they’re so funny together.
THIS BOOK MADE ME CRY.
definitely recommend this to everyone and their mothers father brothers sisters cousins coworkers friends enemies EVERYONE. go read, right NEOW! thanks 🙏
p.s. HE LITERALLY SAID “im hers.” HOW TF ARE U NOT GONNA READ THIS?!?!?!?
pre-review: brb adding the rest of the books in this series to my tbr right tf now
“My wild card has come up aces.”
HAPPY RELEASE DAY TO THIS LOVELY BLACK BILLIONAIRE HEIST ROMANCE NOVELLA!!! WHOOP WHOOP.
OH MY GOOD GAWLYYY. this was amazing and very much top tier.
first off, I just want to give my huge thanks to 1001 dark nights for providing me with this arc!! y’all are the best🫵
now, I wanna preface this by saying that this is not only my first Dylan allen book, but it is also the first book I have read from the rivers Wilde series and also potentially my first billionaire romance?!? (I KNOW I KNOW I NEED TO READ MORE) and this novella alone has convinced me that im truly missing out.
this novella follows Cassie, a thief, and Leo, a billionaire who she is attempting to steal from over the span of 10 years. the first half is set in Seychelles and the second half is 10 years later set in Houston suburbs.
from the very first moment they met, I knew I was going to be obsessed with them together. HE LITERALLY WAS SO DOWN BAD FOR HER AND I COULDNT GET ENOUGH OF IT.
don’t let me even get STARTED on the spice. WHEW. 😮💨😮💨AMAZING. AWESOME. SCREAMING. CRYING.
they’re just so iconic and adorable and i love them together so fucking much. Cassie deserves the absolute world and i adored how Leo was ready to give her that and more. we love Black billionaires around here if y’all didn’t know already.🫶🏾
i also loved Cassie’s friendship with Confidence and how refreshing it was!!! like they’re so funny together.
THIS BOOK MADE ME CRY.
definitely recommend this to everyone and their mothers father brothers sisters cousins coworkers friends enemies EVERYONE. go read, right NEOW! thanks 🙏
p.s. HE LITERALLY SAID “im hers.” HOW TF ARE U NOT GONNA READ THIS?!?!?!?
pre-review: brb adding the rest of the books in this series to my tbr right tf now
January 16, 2024
Check out our full post for THE WILD CARD on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
M/F Second-Chance Romance
This story spans a decade. Leo and Cassie have complicated paths behind them and in front of them.
Cassie needs this one last job to finally be able to be out from under debt. Leo is trying to live up to the family name that he was not truly allowed to belong to. Both are trying to find a connection, without losing what they’ve worked so hard for.
I really enjoyed Cassie’s character. She’s strong without being mean, sensitive when it matters, and fierce when it comes to those she cares about.
Leo’s life has been privileged but challenged. He is a complicated character. He wants to do right by his dad, but also knows that he’s kind of chasing ghosts.
These two together were steamy, but quick. It’s kind of an insta-love story, but it seems to fit these two.
You will want to both kiss and pound faces in this story and it is a fast-paced, sweet story of love, forgiveness, and family.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
January 15, 2024
The Wild Card begins in a tropical paradise where Cassie, who has fallen on hard times, has been hired to “reclaim” an item from Leo at his home in the Seychelles. When Cassie begins to have feelings for Leo she decides she needs to come clean with him and let him know what is going on, but before she can do that, Cassie is forced to leave the island and Leo receives news that has him ghosting her. Cassie has also left the island with a secret of her own. The novella then jumps ten years with Cassie and Leo having moved forward with their lives, but neither has forgotten the other. In a fun meet again cute, they are set up on a date by mutual friends and find out that they are neighbors.
This novella is set in Dylan Allen’s Rivers Wilde world but can definitely be read as a standalone. I absolutely loved the setting in the beginning of the story. I was reading this over a weekend where the temps outside my house had reached negative seven and this was the tropical treat that I needed. It was fun, steamy and emotional, and left me wanting to know more about the other characters inhabiting Rivers Wilde.
This novella is set in Dylan Allen’s Rivers Wilde world but can definitely be read as a standalone. I absolutely loved the setting in the beginning of the story. I was reading this over a weekend where the temps outside my house had reached negative seven and this was the tropical treat that I needed. It was fun, steamy and emotional, and left me wanting to know more about the other characters inhabiting Rivers Wilde.
January 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
It makes me so very happy to be back in the Rivers Wilde World. Reconnecting with this group of friends in one of the best places on Earth is exhilarating. Dylan Allen's return to writing is a triumph. She always finds just the right words to keep this reader up late into the night.
This story about past lives and present lives that intersect is a feast for the senses. Cassie and Leo are both strong individuals who have worked their way through tough times to become admirable, independent adults. They have transcended the misfortunes of their familial ties to choose family who love and respect them for their true selves. They have each risen above the insecurities of their younger years to make their lives all they want.
It is such a beautiful experience to experience the lush tropical paradise of the Seychelles through their eyes. Likewise, experiencing the hospitality of the Rivers Wilde community with them is priceless. This story of love found, lost , and rediscovered is simply gorgeous.
It makes me so very happy to be back in the Rivers Wilde World. Reconnecting with this group of friends in one of the best places on Earth is exhilarating. Dylan Allen's return to writing is a triumph. She always finds just the right words to keep this reader up late into the night.
This story about past lives and present lives that intersect is a feast for the senses. Cassie and Leo are both strong individuals who have worked their way through tough times to become admirable, independent adults. They have transcended the misfortunes of their familial ties to choose family who love and respect them for their true selves. They have each risen above the insecurities of their younger years to make their lives all they want.
It is such a beautiful experience to experience the lush tropical paradise of the Seychelles through their eyes. Likewise, experiencing the hospitality of the Rivers Wilde community with them is priceless. This story of love found, lost , and rediscovered is simply gorgeous.
January 16, 2024
I’ll never pass up reading anything by Dylan Allen, especially if it’s a continuation of anything Rivers Wilde related, which I absolutely love. The Wild Card is a novella that hits the spot; and is an incredible short story about two very intriguing characters.
Although abbreviated, The Wild Card spans a great while for a love that is epic. Leo and Cassie’s story is well developed, and full of skeletons that are kept locked up out of fear of what revealing them may mean.
Their story is captivating and truly plays on the longing you develop to see these two together. Allen perfectly manages to work in a slow burn feel in this novella. The electricity between these two is delectable and fiercely undeniable. And I always love when years pass, yet their attraction is unwavering. This is their story. Leo and Cassie are swooney and make the pitter patter of your heart go wild.
Dylan Allen has a knack for creating characters that sweep you off your feet, leaving an indelible impression. This is what I feel with Leo and Cassie. And even in a condensed story, their story is gratifying and left me with a swollen heart. Pick this one up, you will love it!
Although abbreviated, The Wild Card spans a great while for a love that is epic. Leo and Cassie’s story is well developed, and full of skeletons that are kept locked up out of fear of what revealing them may mean.
Their story is captivating and truly plays on the longing you develop to see these two together. Allen perfectly manages to work in a slow burn feel in this novella. The electricity between these two is delectable and fiercely undeniable. And I always love when years pass, yet their attraction is unwavering. This is their story. Leo and Cassie are swooney and make the pitter patter of your heart go wild.
Dylan Allen has a knack for creating characters that sweep you off your feet, leaving an indelible impression. This is what I feel with Leo and Cassie. And even in a condensed story, their story is gratifying and left me with a swollen heart. Pick this one up, you will love it!
January 17, 2024
Be sure and read the author’s note at the beginning, it makes this novella even more special 💙💙
I really loved this second chance novella with Cassie and Leo!! I really liked how this story unfolded starting in the past and how they met and now in present day. Cassie is strong and I really liked her as the FMC. She made the best choice she could in the moment.
Leo was really struggling emotionally when they met and Cassie was such a breath of fresh air for him. Timing is everything!
They grew up in different worlds but also had some things in common and incredible chemistry. After 10 years with no contact they end up as neighbors! I really loved the storyline and Max was the perfect addition to Leo’s life.
**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**
✨Tropes
💎Second Chance
🔥Neighbors to Lovers
💎Billionaire Romance
🔥Reformed Jewel Thief
💎Secrets
I really loved this second chance novella with Cassie and Leo!! I really liked how this story unfolded starting in the past and how they met and now in present day. Cassie is strong and I really liked her as the FMC. She made the best choice she could in the moment.
Leo was really struggling emotionally when they met and Cassie was such a breath of fresh air for him. Timing is everything!
They grew up in different worlds but also had some things in common and incredible chemistry. After 10 years with no contact they end up as neighbors! I really loved the storyline and Max was the perfect addition to Leo’s life.
**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**
✨Tropes
💎Second Chance
🔥Neighbors to Lovers
💎Billionaire Romance
🔥Reformed Jewel Thief
💎Secrets
January 20, 2024
True to the author’s style, The Wild Card is a beautifully written second chance romance with characters that jump off the page, a setting that makes me want to dust off my passport, and a story that is both heartfelt and deliciously romantic.
Here’s what I loved:
I was here for the heist! Hands down, that part of the storyline drew me in immediately. I love the fact that the author plays around with deep themes of how far a person is expected to go to care for their family while giving the reader a deeply emotional romance.
The characters are beautifully portrayed. This author never fails to make me fall in love with both the hero and heroine. They ooze charm and charisma. Their motivations are clearly portrayed. And she never fails to describe the MMC in a way that makes me melt!
High stakes, family drama, intense situations, love and loss, what’s not to love!
It was a quick fun read. I loved it! Highly recommended.
Here’s what I loved:
I was here for the heist! Hands down, that part of the storyline drew me in immediately. I love the fact that the author plays around with deep themes of how far a person is expected to go to care for their family while giving the reader a deeply emotional romance.
The characters are beautifully portrayed. This author never fails to make me fall in love with both the hero and heroine. They ooze charm and charisma. Their motivations are clearly portrayed. And she never fails to describe the MMC in a way that makes me melt!
High stakes, family drama, intense situations, love and loss, what’s not to love!
It was a quick fun read. I loved it! Highly recommended.
January 16, 2024
Oh my this was THE. BOOK. To kick off my reading experience for 2024!
I have been in love with the Rivers Wilde stories since book 1 so I was so excited to read this installment…it did not disappoint!
In case you haven’t read the prior books in the series no worries, this book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone!
Once again this author affirms her spot on the throne as a master wordsmith. She never disappoints creating fascinating complex flawed characters who had me glued to the pages to find out what was going to happen to them. This story is the perfect blend of emotional angst and super hot chemistry.
The beautiful and exotic imagery added to the stunning, seductive and mesmerizing story of second chances.
Lost lovers find their way in this second chance slow burn story. Life has a mysterious and magical way of bringing people back together, and this book took me on that journey.
I have been in love with the Rivers Wilde stories since book 1 so I was so excited to read this installment…it did not disappoint!
In case you haven’t read the prior books in the series no worries, this book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone!
Once again this author affirms her spot on the throne as a master wordsmith. She never disappoints creating fascinating complex flawed characters who had me glued to the pages to find out what was going to happen to them. This story is the perfect blend of emotional angst and super hot chemistry.
The beautiful and exotic imagery added to the stunning, seductive and mesmerizing story of second chances.
Lost lovers find their way in this second chance slow burn story. Life has a mysterious and magical way of bringing people back together, and this book took me on that journey.
January 17, 2024
Rather than her family supporting her Cassie found herself having to support her family which has her spending a week in Seychelles for less than honest reasons. While there she attracts the attention of Leo and they planned to see each other again once they returned to Texas however, she never heard from him again.
When it comes to Leo’s family his history is complicated. When he meets Cassie, he knows that she is special however when he gets some surprising news he doesn’t believe he is in a position to be with her especially when time passes by. When fate brings them together a decade later, he wants a future with her, but he is about to find out that there are things about her he doesn’t know.
Both have worked hard to overcome their pasts and despite all the years since they have seen each other the chemistry and connection between them is stronger than ever as they trust in each other and their love.
When it comes to Leo’s family his history is complicated. When he meets Cassie, he knows that she is special however when he gets some surprising news he doesn’t believe he is in a position to be with her especially when time passes by. When fate brings them together a decade later, he wants a future with her, but he is about to find out that there are things about her he doesn’t know.
Both have worked hard to overcome their pasts and despite all the years since they have seen each other the chemistry and connection between them is stronger than ever as they trust in each other and their love.
December 23, 2023
The Wild Card is an enticing neighbors-to-lovers, second chance romance that ensnared my attention from the first page! Leo and Cassie are two captivating characters with an undeniable connection and attraction, but various circumstances and secrets suggest that the timing isn’t on their side. With an engaging writing style and intricate way of weaving together an entertaining story featuring interesting characters, this novella is exactly what I have come to love and expect from this author. Given that this is a novella rather than a full length book, I found the character development to be well done and a lot of story is packed within the pages. There is never a dull moment and I was eager to see just how Leo and Cassie’s romance would play out. While this novella takes place in the Rivers Wilde universe, The Wild Card can be read as a standalone.
January 21, 2024
Cassie is in Seychelles on a new job. She is a thief who has been hired to steal something important from Leo. She does a lot of justifying her actions about the stealing. She came off as shallow and felt she needed to steal in order to get ahead. She wasn't stealing items of little value. She was getting paid quite well for her efforts. Leo is a billionaire who still wants the love and respect of his half-siblings. His father has recently died. His family is still asking him to keep referring to his father as his uncle. Why he was willing to go along with that I do not know. It was pretty easy to figure out who orchestrated the theft. I felt bad for Leo because his family was the worst. I didn't understand why neither of them reached out to the other for so long. It seemed silly.
January 25, 2024
This book spans over the time period of 10 years. A great opportunity for a second chance romance to shine and in my opinion it does. These main characters have a wild complicated backstory that leads to the appeal that pulled me into the book.
Cassie is one job away from being debt free. Leo is only trying to live up to the family standards in which he doesn’t belong. They both navigate a path where they want to find themselves without losing themselves at the same time.
I loved Cassie’s spitfire behavior and mannerisms— firm, but not flat out mean. Sensitive, but with a touch of fire when it’s needed.
The spice was wonderful in this fast paced, spicy novella that is a wonderful introduction to this authors writing. I would absolutely scoop up a few more of their books after reading this.
Thank you to Dylan Allen and 1001 Dark Nights for the eARC!
Cassie is one job away from being debt free. Leo is only trying to live up to the family standards in which he doesn’t belong. They both navigate a path where they want to find themselves without losing themselves at the same time.
I loved Cassie’s spitfire behavior and mannerisms— firm, but not flat out mean. Sensitive, but with a touch of fire when it’s needed.
The spice was wonderful in this fast paced, spicy novella that is a wonderful introduction to this authors writing. I would absolutely scoop up a few more of their books after reading this.
Thank you to Dylan Allen and 1001 Dark Nights for the eARC!
January 16, 2024
Overall Grade: B
Tropes/Characteristics: novella; standalone in an interconnected series; opposites attract; close proximity; second chance romance
Dylan Allen does what she does best in her newest Rivers Wilde story, The Wild Card: create emotional, erotic, entertaining romance. Her voice is decidedly spicy, and her characters bear all in this story of second chances. She draws Cassie and Leo together in the most creative of ways: jewelry theft (although that isn’t the situation at all), and as Allen does so well, she crafts an emotional journey between soulmates. Do they have different backgrounds? Yes, but it’s the individual struggles of her characters that unite them. Allen draws you into her story as they work through those struggles and find happiness and completion in each other. My only criticism of hers is a need for polish to the story and consistency within a particular character's development.
However, Dylan Allen’s Rivers Wilde series is one of my favorites, and The Wild Card is another wonderful story to add to the mix. It returns us to a beloved place, and it allows us to fall back in love with this extraordinary fictional community, adding more interesting characters to the mix.
Tropes/Characteristics: novella; standalone in an interconnected series; opposites attract; close proximity; second chance romance
Dylan Allen does what she does best in her newest Rivers Wilde story, The Wild Card: create emotional, erotic, entertaining romance. Her voice is decidedly spicy, and her characters bear all in this story of second chances. She draws Cassie and Leo together in the most creative of ways: jewelry theft (although that isn’t the situation at all), and as Allen does so well, she crafts an emotional journey between soulmates. Do they have different backgrounds? Yes, but it’s the individual struggles of her characters that unite them. Allen draws you into her story as they work through those struggles and find happiness and completion in each other. My only criticism of hers is a need for polish to the story and consistency within a particular character's development.
However, Dylan Allen’s Rivers Wilde series is one of my favorites, and The Wild Card is another wonderful story to add to the mix. It returns us to a beloved place, and it allows us to fall back in love with this extraordinary fictional community, adding more interesting characters to the mix.
January 15, 2024
The Wild Card by Dylan Allen
A Rivers Wilde Novella
The wild card is a novella that is a part of the Rivers Wilde series, but can be read as a stand alone! This is the first book i’ve read in this series, but it will not be my last! Time to add more books to my TBR
This Novella is a billionaire, second chance romance with some spice. The story spans 10 year. I love Leo and Cassie’s connection in this story.
Cassie and Leo meet while Cassie is on a job and there is instant chemistry.
Unfortunately, circumstances keep them apart, but fate steps in 10 years later!
I read this book straight through in just a few hours and can’t wait to read the other books in this series!
A Rivers Wilde Novella
The wild card is a novella that is a part of the Rivers Wilde series, but can be read as a stand alone! This is the first book i’ve read in this series, but it will not be my last! Time to add more books to my TBR
This Novella is a billionaire, second chance romance with some spice. The story spans 10 year. I love Leo and Cassie’s connection in this story.
Cassie and Leo meet while Cassie is on a job and there is instant chemistry.
Unfortunately, circumstances keep them apart, but fate steps in 10 years later!
I read this book straight through in just a few hours and can’t wait to read the other books in this series!
January 16, 2024
Leo and Cassie are phenomenal! They meet under unusual circumstances where she is hired help and he is the elusive owner of the resort. She's not just hired help though. What she needs to do she finds difficult to follow through on. What happens next is fate steps in with other plans. Several years later and a lifetime ago, they meet again. Where they are now is vastly different but so much the same. The pull is still there. I loved this tale. Dylan Allen has this way of pulling me into a story and not let me go. The world she has created in Rivers Wilde keeps me captivated. The characters are wonderful and people I would love to call friends.
January 17, 2024
The Wild Card
Suspense, mystery, intrigue, romance — this book has it all! Leo is a Wild Card at least that’s what they call him. His family’s wealth has given him many opportunities in life, he’s been given everything and that’s the problem, he’s feeling suffocated by his circumstances - until he meets Cassie! After an incredible week together they find their chemistry and connection is a reality they want to fight for. They make plans to meet up again in a week, exchange numbers and then he ghosts her! Find out what happens next for this couple by checking out this incredible book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Suspense, mystery, intrigue, romance — this book has it all! Leo is a Wild Card at least that’s what they call him. His family’s wealth has given him many opportunities in life, he’s been given everything and that’s the problem, he’s feeling suffocated by his circumstances - until he meets Cassie! After an incredible week together they find their chemistry and connection is a reality they want to fight for. They make plans to meet up again in a week, exchange numbers and then he ghosts her! Find out what happens next for this couple by checking out this incredible book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 19, 2024
We all have a choice in what we decide for our lives. Cassie took a big risk in wanting to set her up in her life. What exactly is the cost? I loved the little connection between she and Leo and I loved the paradise setting that Cassie got to experience in Seychelles after she thought her chances were over. I loved that Leo was overly kind and I loved that she had to face a dilemma when presented with the one thing that could make all her problems go away. I also loved that there were circumstances that kept Cassie from doing the right thing, but that everything managed to come full circle. I think I need a re-read of this series. I really enjoyed all the characters.
January 3, 2024
The Rivers Wilde series continues to be my favorite out of all of Dylan Allen’s series and I was beyond thrilled to revisit it. The Wild Card (A Rivers Wilde Novella) had me buzzing with excitement and intrigue and Leo and Cassie had just the right amount of charm, sensuality and romance. Both are strong characters who have certain obstacles to overcome and they are a perfect match for each other. Their unexpected reunion made my heart skip a beat and I was so happy! The Wild Card can be read as a stand-alone and it’s a must read.
January 15, 2024
The Wild Card was a short, sweet ride. This second chance romance, from different sides of the track, kept my attention throughout. I enjoyed reading the layers to Cassie and Leo and their instant chemistry. I loved the twist in them becoming neighbors after a decade of no contact. I wish this was a full length book. I really enjoyed the details of their relationship building in the first half but the second half felt rushed. I would have loved to see more interactions with them in the present. I am glad they got their HEA!
January 26, 2024
🌶️🌶️
This was a good romance novella, and honestly, I wish I could go see some of the views Dylan described so well in her writing. Add in some suspense and a bit of danger, this was a read that had me wanting to see what would happen next. I do wish I had a bit more of a connection with the MMC in this one, but I guess a bit mysterious is why he is called “wild card” there are some good spicy scenes and some nice banter, which is always a way to my heart.
❤️Tropes❤️
💋 second chance
💋 fake dating
💋 rags/riches story
Cassie needs some money. And she needs it now. So she’s doing something she swore she would never do again. She’s using her skills to steal from someone. Only this is a huge job and she is flown to another continent to complete it. A couple of problems. No one knows where the ring is exactly. The security is perfect and she can’t find a way around it. Oh? And she’s falling in love with her mark.
Thank you to 1001 Dark Nights for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
This was a good romance novella, and honestly, I wish I could go see some of the views Dylan described so well in her writing. Add in some suspense and a bit of danger, this was a read that had me wanting to see what would happen next. I do wish I had a bit more of a connection with the MMC in this one, but I guess a bit mysterious is why he is called “wild card” there are some good spicy scenes and some nice banter, which is always a way to my heart.
❤️Tropes❤️
💋 second chance
💋 fake dating
💋 rags/riches story
Cassie needs some money. And she needs it now. So she’s doing something she swore she would never do again. She’s using her skills to steal from someone. Only this is a huge job and she is flown to another continent to complete it. A couple of problems. No one knows where the ring is exactly. The security is perfect and she can’t find a way around it. Oh? And she’s falling in love with her mark.
Thank you to 1001 Dark Nights for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
May 15, 2026
Rambling and rushed.
This story could have been better especially since it was the last in the series. There were too many time lapses and not enough in the gap about Leo and Cassie. He sent her away without hearing her story which could have been given much sooner. This book left too many questions, like what happened to Max’s mother? He hated her but spoke of how much the child reminded him of her. This series should have been 4 not 6 because the family was great, Hayes was my fav character so I’ll try not to let the last 2 books ruin it.
This story could have been better especially since it was the last in the series. There were too many time lapses and not enough in the gap about Leo and Cassie. He sent her away without hearing her story which could have been given much sooner. This book left too many questions, like what happened to Max’s mother? He hated her but spoke of how much the child reminded him of her. This series should have been 4 not 6 because the family was great, Hayes was my fav character so I’ll try not to let the last 2 books ruin it.
January 23, 2024
This spicy short novella was so entertaining, I really enjoyed it. This was my first read from the Rovers Wilde series and I was pleasantly surprised!!
Cassie is a thief who has been trying to steal from our man Leo for a period of ten years. The SPICE?! The TENSION?! This novella had it all, definitely gave me he falls first vibes.
I would recommend this book to lover of billionaire romance 💘
Thank you to 1001 Dark Nights for this arc
Cassie is a thief who has been trying to steal from our man Leo for a period of ten years. The SPICE?! The TENSION?! This novella had it all, definitely gave me he falls first vibes.
I would recommend this book to lover of billionaire romance 💘
Thank you to 1001 Dark Nights for this arc
January 23, 2024
I really enjoyed returning to the river, wild world. Who doesn’t love a second chance love story? Leo meet his new neighbor Cassie and it takes him a while to realize it’s one that’s gotten away from before. Cassie has things in her past and Leo leaving after they met last time Still makes her feel a certain way. I really enjoyed how their relationship progressed, and I was a little bit of a mystery which was solved at the end.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews