Wild Heart

The Hearts of Sawyers Bend #6

by Ivy Layne

Sometimes you need the dark to protect the light
Quinn Sawyer is a mystery.
She’s an heiress. She’s a backcountry guide.
She has a suite in a mansion, but she sleeps in the woods.
I can’t make sense of her. I shouldn’t care.
My job is to keep her safe, not get to know her.
She’s my best friend’s little sister. She’s a client.
And she can never be mine.
I’ve lived a life steeped in darkness, and Quinn is pure light.
She invades my dreams, and I wake wanting her. Needing her.

I vow to keep my distance. For almost a year, I stay away.
But when the danger stalking her family comes for Quinn,
I’m the only man who can keep her safe.
I can protect her from the danger outside.
The real question is, can I keep her safe from me?

Wild Heart is a standalone romance with a happy ending. It’s sixth in The Hearts of Sawyers Bend series, featuring the Sawyer family of Sawyers Bend.

Genres: Contemporary Romance, Suspense, Romance, Contemporary, Romantic Suspense

383 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 14, 2024

About the author

Ivy Layne has had her nose stuck in a book since she first learned to decipher the English language. Sometime in her early teens, she stumbled across her first Romance, and the die was cast. Though she pretended to pay attention to her creative writing professors, she dreamed of writing steamy romance instead of literary fiction. These days, she’s neck deep in alpha heroes and the smart, sexy women who love them.

Married to her very own alpha hero (who rubs her back after a long day of typing, but also leaves his socks on the floor). Ivy lives in the mountains of North Carolina where she and her other half are having a blast raising two energetic little boys. Aside from her family, Ivy’s greatest loves are coffee and chocolate, preferably together.

Sign up for Ivy's Reader's Group for free books, exclusive content, giveaways, and more @ ivylayne.com/readers-group

Reviews

[JP · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wanted to dislike this, but the ending saved it for me

(no spoiler)

For the first time in the over 1000 romance books I’ve read since 2020, I can say I liked the book even though I hated the FMC.

Hawk was one of my favorite recurring characters from previous books and I’m honestly disappointed he ended up with Quinn. The tiny glimpses of Quinn we got from previous.books already had me thinking of her as whiny and self-absorbed. This book confirmed it.

I detest alpha protector trope books where the FMC makes it harder and more dangerous for the MMC to protect her because of an unfounded sense of “I can take care of myself” and outright not listening to the MMC.

I just didn’t think Quinn was that great an outdoorswoman…neither tough or strong, as she’s repeatedly described. Everything she has was given to her. She ignored the weather and was completely unprepared to help herself in the event of an injury. She was whiny about her injury (I’ve had that injury before…not nearly as painful and debilitating as she played it).

She whines about having to leave her vacation early to be safe. She whines about having to live in a 14K sq ft home and someone else has to come up with the completely obvious idea to simply pick a different room.

She’s an emotional infant who sticks her head in the sand about being in danger and past trauma; refuses to address it in any kind of an adult, healthy way…and she never does. At the first sign of danger, she only thinks of self-preservation and is no help to the MMC at all. She handles everything by thinking only of herself and running away, with little appreciation for the MMC’s safety or expertise. She had to constantly be coddled.

But I still liked the book…LOL. I wish we were in Hawk’s head and history more than Quinn’s…he was the far more interesting and compelling character. And the ending saved it.

Last thing I’ll add is that this series is the sole reason I will never again start an unfinished series. To have a complicated, intertwined, large family saga with a whodunnit and imminent danger and cliffhangers…with no release date for each subsequent book…and over a year between releases…just NO.

You lose all the great details from previous books and completely forget who is who and what we know and don’t. Ugh. Do not start this series until the next 2, 3, 4 (???) books come out, though at the current rate, it will be 2027 before the series is complete. Love this author and this saga, but…caveat emptor. ((anxiously awaiting the next books…))

[Kerri Bonvie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild Heart, by Ivy Layne (The Hearts Of Sawyers Bend, Book 6)

Every time I read a book from the Sawyers Bend series I instantly want to go back and reread them all. This series is so amazing. I want to find a place like Sawyers Bend and since I live in North Carolina I really want to discover this place. The Sawyers have been through so much since book 1 and I am so attached to all of them. It’s a testament to Ivy Layne’s writing skills and character development.

This book is Quinn Sawyer's book. Quinn has popped up in the other five books and we got glimpses that she had suffered some sort of trauma which was why she was self-medicating herself. I wasn’t prepared for how much trauma. We know from the last book of The Untangled Series, Uncovered, that Griffen Sawyer had to go back to the town he was exiled from. That his father Prentice was a disgusting piece of work. What we continued to learn was that Prentice was diabolical and used all his children as pons. My heart ached for Quinn and wow, did I cry.

The fact that she has been living with all of this trauma for over ten years with only her brother who is now in jail knowing, is a testament to her strength. She is amazing. This book made me think and try to put the pieces together throughout this story. I was so glad she had someone like Hawk looking out for her and supporting her throughout the story.

Hawk Bristol has been head of security for the Sawyer’s since book 1. He came from Sinclair Security with Griffen. I actually thought he was older than he is in the other books because he is such a recluse. What we find out in this book is that he has been through a lot of trauma and takes the safety of The Sawyer's personally. He has always watched Quinn in a protective way and after she gets attacked in the woods they bond in a way that is devastatingly beautiful. Hawk is a protector in all ways and once he deals with his feelings of guilt and shame he is romantic too.

I loved this story. I would suggest that you read the other books in the series before you read this one. I personally don’t think it can be read as a standalone because of all the details. There is a reading order for all of Ivy’s series however, I didn’t read them in order. The questions I had were eventually answered once I read the series that back filled my questions. I have loved them all!
Ivy Layne

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 6th story in the Hearts of Sawyers Bend where Hawk head of security and Quinn an independent local travel guide find themselves in an adventure of their lives. These two have suffered trauma in their past that keeps them guarded and not living life to its fullest. Hawk finds himself being over protective of Quinn watching her when she’s sleeping in the woods instead of in the Manor most nights. When Quinn is attacked hiking to the cabin Hawk finds her struggling to break free and he takes over rescuing her while the attacker gets away. With the snow storm they find themselves bunkering down until it’s safe to return experiencing an amazing time together only for Hawk to end it before retuning. These two are a perfect match for each other as Quinn is a lightness to his darkness. No one understands why Quinn is being targeted but when she shares her discovery of the leaf necklace they believe she’s found a clue to the woman her father was with prior to being killed. The attacker becomes more aggressive causing security issues, Quinn finds herself staying with Hawk in the Gatehouse, a flood forces them to the manor and Quinn finds herself having to explain her past to the entire Sawyer gang who show the upmost support and care for her with grace. During this time Hawk gets Quinn a cat, Leo who falls in love with them and will protect Quinn if needed. When the unthinkable happens to Quinn, Hawk does what is necessary to get Quinn to safety. It’s beautiful to see how Hawk protects Quinn and she allows Hawk to release his guilt giving them a 2nd chance at life with forgiveness, family and love! This ends on a cliffhanger with Ford being released from jail for their father’s murder.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have been keeping up with the series, you know all about Quinn Sawyer. She has her own outdoors business. She a woman that loves camping, fishing, kayaking and everything to do with just being one with nature. She certainly doesn’t see herself as anything special. Hawk has watched Quinn from afar and knows he is not the man for her. He is too dark and has a past that would have her running. But Quinn isn’t helpless. She certainly showed it when something unexpected happened. Now they need to figure out who is after her.

I love this series. The Sawyer family is always a rock. Still trying to solve the mysteries of the past. We also learn about Quinn more. There is a reason she loves the outdoors and hated sleeping in Heartstone Manor. And Hawk is the only one to push for the answer. I could not believe what she went through. We also learn about his past and why he thinks he isn’t good enough for her. Total nonsense. He is perfect for Quinn and she knows it. The mystery of the necklace is in hand and we wonder what is its significance is. Ford is still in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. But we may have an answer soon. We also still have Forrest still hoping for forgiveness from Sterling. I a so looking forward to “Broken Heart.”

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mommy "M" String · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another brilliant work of Ivy Layne, and I am convinced that she is the master of the continued story. She has a knack for bringing characters to life while meshing their continued stories seamlessly through different books.

Wild Heart continues the saga of the Sawyer family, and this book starts to answer some of the questions from the first book in the series. Ford is finally coming home. Hawk, the irredemptive security, has secretly kept an eye on the quirky Quinn. He wants to know why she prefers sleeping outside, even in winter, to her room in the mansion. Through shared trauma, they find love, but with Quinn’s well-being continually being threatened, they also find a shared trust. Hawk can’t forgive himself, so how can he ask Quinn to forgive him? With secrets of misdeeds, his past haunts him like ghosts who appear in the mist. Quinn has seen her own share of ghosts and wants to help Hawk with his as they heal each other.

The twists and turns in this offering are both enlightening and fun to read; however, we still have not gotten to the bottom of the whodunit of who killed dear old dad lurking. This book makes for an easy read and an excellent continuation of a HEA.

[AJ]

1) Why would you put a skinny guy in a suit on the cover? Hawk is not skinny, nor would he wear a suit unless forced.
2) I loved all of Ivy Layne's books when I could read them back-to-back, but the extra-long wait between these does her no favors. This "mystery" being drawn out for now 6 books is getting tiring and we are no closer to a resolution. It's supposed to bring all of these books together, but, meh. I almost don't care at this point.
3) Where the heck is Braxton? He's like the brother everyone forgets exists. He's mentioned exactly 1 time in this book and is literally never around. There was a whole breakfast scene where Quinn listed everyone in the house, including the old ladies, who were still sleeping, and did not mention Braxton at all. It's weird.

This book had me until we reveal the big bad of the book. And that resolution? Laughable. No, just no. I am just kinda bored at this point.

And now we get Sterling and Forrest next? I really really don't care about them.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild Heart, part of the Hearts of Sawyers Bend series, is the story of Hawk and Quinn. While reading, I decided to put myself in the characters’ shoes and this is what I figured out. Firstly Hawk was a man tormented by his past. He was convinced that he couldn’t deserve to be happy owing to his past issues. Quinn, on the other hand, was the girl who had a horrible childhood due to her father’s insensitivity. Although she had gone through hell, she kept a positive attitude and thanks to her gentleness, she was able to break down Hawk’s barriers while running from a mysterious menace. In my opinion this book is a second chance at life, I loved how both characters interacted with one another. They were the perfect couple, even if they heavily carried all the past issues on their shoulders. The mystery of the patriarch’s murder still remains and the anticipation is becoming more and more intriguing. I’m looking forward to the next book.

[marshas_world_of_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ivy Layne came in hot with Hawk and Quinn! I can honestly say I did not see the goodness that is Hawk and coming. He is a perfect book boyfriend. The moment he told Quinn I love you for the first time, I might have smile like a love struck teenaged girl. Quinn is a force, but one you’d really want to be around all the time. Then there’s Leo! I am obsessed with Leo! He was the perfect addition to this story and quite frankly has the biggest main character energy. Even if he can’t be. What I love about Ivy’s books is that, while they’re romance, they’re also suspense. This one had a twist of suspense that I never could have guessed. I thought I had it all figured out just to learn I was so wrong. This book, like all of them in the series is so so good. They’re all interconnected stand alones so you can read this one without reading them all, I highly recommend reading them all anyway. You won’t be disappointed.

[Silke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild Heart is the 6th book in the series around the Sawyers from Sawyers Bend. While the romance part stands on its own, I'd highly recommend reading the books in order, because there is a wealth of background on the family and a suspense plot that each book adds to. Hawk and Quinn's story packs an emotional punch on multiple levels, with trauma and heartache in both their pasts which come to light bit by bit. It's fast-paced action had me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails and - I admit - taking a peak at the ending before settling down to read! Add in family drama, witty dialogue, growing feelings and some steamy sexy times and you've got another winner. There is a HEA for the couple, but the danger for the family is far from over. I can't wait to continue the saga!
I was fortunate to have received an advanced copy from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.

[Carolyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've loved this series from the beginning and have enjoyed discovering all the Sawyer siblings. Quinn was an enigma because we hadn't seen her much before and she seemed to live her life as far from Heartsone Manor as possible. Hawk matched her in mystery and in the walls he'd erected around his heart. I was really glad Quinn became Hawk's special someone, and I really liked her laid-back attitude and how she let him set the pace when her own decision was made. I also got tickled pink at the fact this rugged, cold man went out of his way to protect the woman he didn't admit he had feelings for. This was such a great story and I appreciated how Quinn defied all the expectations of a woman raised in wealth. She and Hawk were such a good match! And that ending? Completely unexpected and classy. Better get confortable when you start reading this book because you won't be moving for a while!

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everytime I read a book in this series, it becomes my fav but this one is spectacular! I don’t think I’ve ever written that in a review, but I loved this book. About Quinn and Hawk. First, this story is full on action, suspense right from the start. You can not help but love this couple and want them to have their happy ending. I loved it so much, I started at the beginning of this series again as they are that good. I can not wait til the next. I have been with this author since her first two books (which are free) and I look forward to each book and am always sad when her series end. I have no trouble writing Ivy is my all time fav author and her books my all time fav reads each year. If you love books you can’t put down, then don’t miss out. The Winter’s series is again my fav stories, but this series is just amazing and I think they are fighting for first. M

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quinn Sawyer runs the family kayak and hiking guide business and Hawk Bristol is head of security. He crossed over with Griffen, Quinn’s brother, from the Sinclair series. There’s a concise catchup of the previous books so it helps to keep this book as a standalone. After an initial burst of action the first part of the book was a bit slow with repetitious thoughts. It picks up midway and I became more engaged as more people were involved and following along with the mystery. There’s a twist and I liked that it was a complex and unique. My favorite parts have always been when the family is together and interacting. I’ve been unsure about Ford but his scene with Hawk brought out so much in both characters. The epilogue moves the overarching mystery forward with one big step!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series and Ms. Layne’s writing of her stories. I felt bad for Hawk as he didn’t feel like he should ever be loved or happy. This was all because of a greedy commander he had served under. It was so wonderful that Griffen Sawyer and Hawk were such good friends, and Griffen made Hawk head of security at Sawyer’s Bend. Hawk is attracted to Quinn, but doesn’t fell he deserves her. Someone was after Quinn and Hawk was determined to protect her. There were twists and turns with suspense in the book that had me on the edge of my seat. Quinn had her own skeletons to bear. I was glad Hawk was determined to help her through her nightmares of what happened in the past. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read it.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVE this series. I thoroughly enjoyed everything about this book! Quinn and Hawk are wonderful together - a perfect mix. I loved the way he took care of her - patient and understanding. It was great learning more about Quinn and Hawk. The continued and constant suspense, the twists and turns, and even more surprises. Wow! I loved catching up with the rest of the Sawyers. I can’t wait to see what is next in Sawyer Bend.

There are still many unanswered questions. We revisited with other characters from previous books. We're learning more about Ford and some pieces of the puzzles are coming together.

I received an ARC of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Tina Howell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quinn and Hawk may be tied as my new favorite couple in this series! Griffin and Hope have always been my favorite couple. I just finished Wild Heart and I love Quinn and Hawk’s story. Quinn and Hawk’s characters fit so well together. They both have trauma in their past. Hawk fights his feelings for Quinn for a long time because he feels he doesn’t deserve her. Quinn has had a crush on Hawk since the first day she met him. They finally get together after Hawk rescued Quinn. They go through some more events that I won’t share! Their characters were well developed. And don’t forget about Leo. ❤️ I also love how we got to reconnect with the other family members and old friends in Atlanta. I highly recommend this book.

[Denise H · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite of the series, so far. Absolutely loved everything about this book! Constant suspense, many twists and turns, and some shocking surprises. Quinn and Hawk were wonderful together and the way he took care of her...total swoon. His patience and understanding of everything Quinn was perfect for them and their relationship. Also loved catching up with the rest of the Sawyers and their lives. Still so many unanswered questions and I can’t wait to see what comes next in the Sawyer saga.

*I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Lorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lions and Bears
The Sawyer saga continues with Quinn being in the sites of whomever is targeting the family. Always the one feeling like she didn’t fit in, Quinn couldn’t stand the thoughts of living in Heartstone Manor. Hawk could see through the face that Quinn gave to everyone else because he had lived that life and more. When there’s an attack on Quinn’s life, all bets are off because she and Hawk are finally forced to look at the chemistry that’s been simmering for a while. Little does the family know that the attack on Quinn, their fathers death and Ford being in prison may be a very tangled web that still has many threads that have to be pulled.

[Haidee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild Heart is the sixth book in the Hearts of Sawyers Bend series. In this book we follow Quinn and Hawk who’s the head of security for the family. This book has been a journey of emotions, we see Quinn’s determination and determination even though life has not been easy for her. While being among the nature where she can relax like his name Hawk has been watching her for a time trying to keep her safe while wanting her but feeling like he is not deserving of her due to his dark past. Like in her other books the action and suspense are very present in this installment of this series as well as all the ingredients for you to fall for this couple.

[Terra Drynan-Werder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quinn and Hawks story was explosive from the start. Every time I finish a book in this series I remember how much I enjoy this family and there stories, no matter what it's always family first with them. I expected this story to be a roller coaster, but had no idea the wonderful story I was in for. As usual some questions were answered and some new ones arose. I am so looking forward to additional books in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book for my honest review.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!!

I loved this story of Quinn and Hawk!! He is her oldest brothers friend and employee. Hawk is head of security at the manor. Ever since they first met, there has been an attraction. But Hawk insists that he isn't good enough for Quinn. She is light to his darkness. Then someone attacks Quinn and all bets are off. They both can't deny what's between them. It doesn't mean their road is easy. I love these two together. I love this book and series!! I highly recommend! I cannot wait to read Sterling and Forrest's story!!

[Donna Rutledge · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story about Hawk and Quinn. Quinn is the only Sawyer that can't sleep in the mansion. She always sleeps outside in a hammock. But one day there is a man who tackles her cabin. Hawk is there to save her, but just barely.

Hawk tells Quinn she has to sleep in the mansion for her protection, but she can't sleep in her suite. She has to tell Hawk why, so he lets her sleep in the gatehouse with him.

There are attacks on the mansion, but they can't track who is doing it. Hawk hasn't found out who attacked and hurt Quinn but he's going to if possible.

[Christina Astorga · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hawk and Quinn finally get their story, yay!! So, I've been invested in this series since the beginning. I love this author and all of her books. This is another great one.

Quinn is the nature sibling and she loves it. She's strong and quiet. Hawk is the atrong silent type. Hawk had his preconceived notions on how staff and employers should interact. However, Hawk can't stop his feelings and protectiveness for Quinn. Eventually, he stops fighting his feelings and it's wonderful.

I can't wait for the next book in the series.

[Natasha Whitehurst · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome 😘😘 Senual and Sexy Love-making Romantic Love Story and Thriller Staring Hawk & Quinn 😱😍

WOW!!! 😜 OMG!!! Hawk and Quinn, Oozing Sexy Romantic Off-the-Chart 😍 Romance!!! And, you can't escape Action Pack Thriller and Suspense s!!!😱!!! So many twist and turns!!! Is an understatement😨. The Sawyer's sage which includes Sinclair's Security🔊 But again Hawk and Quinn their story is so endearingly steamy sheets' love-making!!!😘😘😘

Must read!!! And unexpected ending 😜😏🤔 I couldn't put my Kindle down!!!😅

[Will A. Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read.

I have read many books in this series and each one will keep you involved, seeking a connection to the unresolved events that continue to effect the Sawyers and the people who love them. This book had a different twist in that it brought the beautiful land of NC forward and as you read , you could visualize the its beautiful. This also a page turner with many twists and turns, secrets reveal yet many unanswered questions still are there. Great family-friends dynamic and beautiful and passionate love making. You will not be disappointed by selecting this book.

[Yvonne S · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the series that I truly enjoyed. The writing and storytelling were up there, and I liked both Hawk and Quinn - they were mature, personable and logical. I read some other reviews and thought Quinn would be another FMC that I will have an issue with; this was not the case. The story flowed beautifully, the romance and suspense were equally balanced and held my interest from beginning to end. My only (small) complaint is that the author seems to be dialing down smexy times quite a bit in this series.

[Leah Doumousiaris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked the story… I’m so happy we finally got Hawks story. Him and Quinn are amazing together. I wish more of the family was involved like a lot of the other books but it was still great. Think Leo was my favorite though. Wonder what the dogs name would have been. Maybe we’ll meet her in the next book. But the story was good. And I liked the twist, and I must agree with Quinn on outcome I bet Blake will be a huge help in solving the mystery around the dad’s death. I wish these books would come out closer together I have having to wait for the next story. It’s great the conflicts in each book are resolved, but the on going mystery kills me… plus I need to know how each siblings happy ever after looks like!

[Patricia Shanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

this novel is Fantastic

This novel did not disappoint.
A true page turner, plot was incredible . Quinn and Hawk kept you guessing .
The last paragraph was an eye opener, I was surprised at the who done it. And about Ford , I can’t wait until the next novel. And I hope you clear up who did all the murders. And where does the necklace come in
Oh my goodness these novels just keep getting better.
Ivy Layne you are an incredible writer thank you for my sleepless night .

[lashawn Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing job

Once again Ivy delivered on Hawk and Quinn’s story. The unique spin on the bad guy and we are still left with the mystery of who’s behind it all? Both of Hawk and Quinn have damaged pasts but will heal each other. The magnetic pull and protective nature they both have over each other is dream worthy and is what pulls them both out of the darkness of their pasts and into the light.

[Diana Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve loved this entire series but Quinn and Hawk has been a joy to read. I’ve wanted Hawk to find his true love since he was brought into the series. I don’t usually go for the damsel inside distress trope but as I read further into the book I realized Quinn wasn’t that. She is a traumatized young woman who just needs someone who won’t crush her spirit or her dreams. Hawk is perfect for her. I love all of Ivy Layne’s books.

[Jodi Slaby · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable quick read. I liked Quinn and Hawk as well as briefly revisiting the characters from the past books. I was glad to get more background on Ford, and move the murder storyline forward a little bit.
*I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.