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Strong & Wilde #1
Strong & Wilde: Part One
Lose yourself in this heart-wrenching small town romance about first love, broken promises, and holding on to love when all hope is lost.
The hardest thing Cody Wilde ever had to do was keep the promise he made to his dying father—stay away from trouble. Growing up in a rural Texas town and being bullied by the sheriff’s son made it nearly impossible to control the notorious Wilde temper. Only having his good friend, Cassie, and her family for support made the task bearable.
Cassie Strong never understood why people picked on Cody. He was sweet, sexy, and had a silly side that he showed only to her. When tragedy strikes her family, it’s Cody who is by her side and their friendship blossoms into something more.
But when Cody’s lifelong enemy threatens the one thing that could make him break his promise, will he risk losing Cassie or will he be strong enough to hold on to his father’s last wish?
NOTE: This is the first of 3 parts of the Strong & Wilde novel and is written as a serial with cliffhangers. The full novel is now available for readers who prefer the complete novel format or you can continue reading the book in serial format.
The hardest thing Cody Wilde ever had to do was keep the promise he made to his dying father—stay away from trouble. Growing up in a rural Texas town and being bullied by the sheriff’s son made it nearly impossible to control the notorious Wilde temper. Only having his good friend, Cassie, and her family for support made the task bearable.
Cassie Strong never understood why people picked on Cody. He was sweet, sexy, and had a silly side that he showed only to her. When tragedy strikes her family, it’s Cody who is by her side and their friendship blossoms into something more.
But when Cody’s lifelong enemy threatens the one thing that could make him break his promise, will he risk losing Cassie or will he be strong enough to hold on to his father’s last wish?
NOTE: This is the first of 3 parts of the Strong & Wilde novel and is written as a serial with cliffhangers. The full novel is now available for readers who prefer the complete novel format or you can continue reading the book in serial format.
130 pages, ebook
First published September 5, 2014
164 people are currently reading
908 people want to read
About the author
L.G. Castillo
42 books436 followersJoin LG Castillo's mailing list for information on sales and new releases!
https://www.lgcastillo.com/newsletter
Known for her heartfelt cowboy romance and action-packed paranormal romance, USA Today Bestselling Author L.G. Castillo writes books that explore the tumultuous and psychological journey of self-discovery and falling in love. Her stories feature dramatic, life-changing events interspersed with a good dose of humor, feisty heroines, and the swoon-worthy men who love them.
When she's not writing, L.G. is binging on Netflix or adding up frequent flyer miles for her next vacation. She's been married to her own swoon-worthy hero for over two decades.
https://www.lgcastillo.com/newsletter
Known for her heartfelt cowboy romance and action-packed paranormal romance, USA Today Bestselling Author L.G. Castillo writes books that explore the tumultuous and psychological journey of self-discovery and falling in love. Her stories feature dramatic, life-changing events interspersed with a good dose of humor, feisty heroines, and the swoon-worthy men who love them.
When she's not writing, L.G. is binging on Netflix or adding up frequent flyer miles for her next vacation. She's been married to her own swoon-worthy hero for over two decades.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
August 31, 2018
Strong & Wilde by L.G. Castillo is the first book in the romance series by the same name. Each of these are novella length and all one continuing story so there are cliffhangers between the books and one would need to read the whole series for the full story.
The story begins with Cody Wilde as a young child being raised by his mother and uncle as his father has gone to prison. The family gets the news that Cody's dad is sick and may not be around much longer so there is a debate of him going to see him. Then the point of view switches to Cassie Strong who's father has taken Cody in a bit after he's lost his own and Cassie and Cody getting to know one another as children before doing a bit of a time jump and rejoining them.
My very first thought with this book.... don't judge a book by it's cover. Looking at the cover and seeing this listed in romance I was thinking it's going to be steamy, jumping into bed together. I was not at all expecting the author to take time building these characters from childhood, especially in a novella. I guess though this makes more sense as the story will continue but for now I'd give this opener 3.5 stars and enjoyed the beginning of their story.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The story begins with Cody Wilde as a young child being raised by his mother and uncle as his father has gone to prison. The family gets the news that Cody's dad is sick and may not be around much longer so there is a debate of him going to see him. Then the point of view switches to Cassie Strong who's father has taken Cody in a bit after he's lost his own and Cassie and Cody getting to know one another as children before doing a bit of a time jump and rejoining them.
My very first thought with this book.... don't judge a book by it's cover. Looking at the cover and seeing this listed in romance I was thinking it's going to be steamy, jumping into bed together. I was not at all expecting the author to take time building these characters from childhood, especially in a novella. I guess though this makes more sense as the story will continue but for now I'd give this opener 3.5 stars and enjoyed the beginning of their story.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
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September 20, 2014Now Available!
Amazon - http://amzn.to/1wcPELS
Amazon - http://amzn.to/1wcPELS
August 4, 2015
What an ending!!
I really enjoyed the writing style, L.G. Castillo knows how to capture her readers attention. Cody is such a sweetheart! I can't wait to read more about him and Cassie :)
I really enjoyed the writing style, L.G. Castillo knows how to capture her readers attention. Cody is such a sweetheart! I can't wait to read more about him and Cassie :)
February 4, 2020
Devo ammettere che il primo capitolo di questa serie mi ha piacevolmente stupita. Pensavo fosse una lettura poco impegnativa e invece sono stata travolta dalle innumerevoli emozioni che si susseguono.
Cody e Cassie hanno molto da dire, secondo me. Sono diversi per estrazione sociale, eppure così simili sotto altri aspetti. Mi sono commossa leggendo ciò che li accomuna e ho provato tanta tenerezza nel veder sbocciare i loro sentimenti di ragazzi ancora così giovani e inesperti. L'autrice li sta mettendo a dura prova e sono molto curiosa di vedere dove ci porterà. Finora mi sembra una storia ben strutturata supportata in modo valido da un'analisi introspettiva buona. Non male anche i protagonisti secondari: dalla spumeggiante Mandi con la sua chiassosa famiglia ai bulletti funzionali alla storia.
Cody e Cassie hanno molto da dire, secondo me. Sono diversi per estrazione sociale, eppure così simili sotto altri aspetti. Mi sono commossa leggendo ciò che li accomuna e ho provato tanta tenerezza nel veder sbocciare i loro sentimenti di ragazzi ancora così giovani e inesperti. L'autrice li sta mettendo a dura prova e sono molto curiosa di vedere dove ci porterà. Finora mi sembra una storia ben strutturata supportata in modo valido da un'analisi introspettiva buona. Non male anche i protagonisti secondari: dalla spumeggiante Mandi con la sua chiassosa famiglia ai bulletti funzionali alla storia.
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December 29, 2017💝 FREE on Amazon today (12/29/2017)! 💝
August 26, 2018
Strong & Wilde Part 1
introduces us to Cody and Cassie. When Cody is 10 years old, his father dies in prison, but before he dies, he makes Cody promise to stay out of trouble, and not to deal with problems (such as bullies) with his fists. Cassie's father takes Cody under his wing, and after discovering the boy shares the same birthday as his daughter, invites him to come on the annual camping trip they have for Cassie's birthday. Cassie is understandably not happy at first, as Cody is somewhat of an outcast, but the two soon become good friends.
Fast forward 7 years. Cody moved out of town a couple of years ago, and when he returns, Cassie is shocked to discover that he has blossomed into a fine young man. But she's not the only one to realise this. After a family tragedy occurs, Cody is there for Cassie, and they both realise there could be something more between them. But can either of them admit their feelings?
I went into this book not really expecting more, purely because I'm not a huge romance reader. I find they can be a bit cheesy and tropey, and a lot of them (in my opinion) are not well-written. That being said, I really enjoyed this book. I liked the characters and the romance, and while there were a few tropes, I can't be mad at that them, because I did have a good time reading this. My only issue was I would have liked it to be a bit longer and more fleshed out, but as this story is in serial form, I can understand why it's so short. Overall, it was a fun and easy read. Look forward to continuing on with their story.
Fast forward 7 years. Cody moved out of town a couple of years ago, and when he returns, Cassie is shocked to discover that he has blossomed into a fine young man. But she's not the only one to realise this. After a family tragedy occurs, Cody is there for Cassie, and they both realise there could be something more between them. But can either of them admit their feelings?
I went into this book not really expecting more, purely because I'm not a huge romance reader. I find they can be a bit cheesy and tropey, and a lot of them (in my opinion) are not well-written. That being said, I really enjoyed this book. I liked the characters and the romance, and while there were a few tropes, I can't be mad at that them, because I did have a good time reading this. My only issue was I would have liked it to be a bit longer and more fleshed out, but as this story is in serial form, I can understand why it's so short. Overall, it was a fun and easy read. Look forward to continuing on with their story.
February 4, 2020
There is nothing in the Amazon blurb that warns the reader this is an unfinished story sold in parts. I was expecting a novella. With an ending, you know.
Cross.
Not reading any further.
Cross.
Not reading any further.
June 1, 2023
Short and sweet.
Sweet, clean YA - NA romance. Nicely written, a little slow paced. Unexpected cliffhanger, didn’t realize it was a serialized novella.
Sweet, clean YA - NA romance. Nicely written, a little slow paced. Unexpected cliffhanger, didn’t realize it was a serialized novella.
September 3, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I discovered LG Castillo around this time last year when Lash was recommended to me by Goodreads. I instantly fell in love with her writing, and the series became one of my favorites. So to say I was excited about reading Strong & Wilde would be a huge understatement.
Cody Wilde is gorgeous, protective, and I can tell he has a huge heart. He has so much vulnerability and I hope we get to see the depth of it all. So far, he's everything you'd want in book boyfriend. My only problem with him is he's not aggressive enough while pursuing Cassie. I just wanted him to kiss her in the truck, or after the birthday cupcake.. or shove Lynette aside at the party and kiss Cassie senseless in front of everyone.
And Cassie Strong. She's not some fantasy girl with extraordinary qualities that could never exist in one person. She's normal. It feels like she could be anyone you know, she could even be you. She's smart, kind, and doesn't put up with your BS. Like when she slapped Seth, I LOVED it. She stepped up and showed him that his behavior was unacceptable. She didn't wait for someone to swoop in and be her knight in shining armor. She took care of it herself. Yeah, it didn't exactly go as planned. But that's another thing I love about this book. Everything was very real from the first page. When you stick up for yourself, you don't always get to walk away with everyone cheering. Sometimes you get humiliated or worse, hit back. That's real life.
Even though it happened so soon in the book, Cassie's personal tragedy really broke my heart. I've read books before where some tragic event happened a bit too soon and I wasn't invested in the story just yet. I couldn't feel for the character until I finished it and read the book again. Not this time. The author managed to draw me in so quick, it was crazy. I could feel her pain and it was just so heartbreaking.
And just like Cody, she wasn't aggressive. I was really hoping they would've kissed at least once already. But I get it though. No contact. No explanation. And now he's supposedly with someone she (and even he) can't stand... I understand why she's not even bothering with it, and I really love that about her. She's not being immature and dramatic over it. She's aware of her feelings, and she understands that the situation sucks, but she doesn't throw a fit just because he appears to be unavailable. For me, she's a damn good protagonist.
I'm definitely not a fan of Lynette or the guys. But I don't think this book would've been the same without the conflict from them.
I absolutely love Mandi though! She's fun and feisty, but also caring and protective. She's everything you'd ask for in a best friend. I'm definitely a fan of her. I hope we get to see more of her in the other books.
I was a bit shocked to learn when this story takes place. If the date wasn't written in the book, I would've assumed it took place now.
Strong & Wilde was better than expected. I absolutely love LG's previous books and she set the bar pretty high with the Broken Angel series, so I assumed it would be just as great as those books. This was way better and I didn't think it was possible to beat Lash! She definitely did not disappoint with this book. It's a strong start to what appears to be a great novella series. I just wish several (and longer) books were planned!
I think the readers will definitely go wild for Wilde.
I discovered LG Castillo around this time last year when Lash was recommended to me by Goodreads. I instantly fell in love with her writing, and the series became one of my favorites. So to say I was excited about reading Strong & Wilde would be a huge understatement.
Cody Wilde is gorgeous, protective, and I can tell he has a huge heart. He has so much vulnerability and I hope we get to see the depth of it all. So far, he's everything you'd want in book boyfriend. My only problem with him is he's not aggressive enough while pursuing Cassie. I just wanted him to kiss her in the truck, or after the birthday cupcake.. or shove Lynette aside at the party and kiss Cassie senseless in front of everyone.
And Cassie Strong. She's not some fantasy girl with extraordinary qualities that could never exist in one person. She's normal. It feels like she could be anyone you know, she could even be you. She's smart, kind, and doesn't put up with your BS. Like when she slapped Seth, I LOVED it. She stepped up and showed him that his behavior was unacceptable. She didn't wait for someone to swoop in and be her knight in shining armor. She took care of it herself. Yeah, it didn't exactly go as planned. But that's another thing I love about this book. Everything was very real from the first page. When you stick up for yourself, you don't always get to walk away with everyone cheering. Sometimes you get humiliated or worse, hit back. That's real life.
Even though it happened so soon in the book, Cassie's personal tragedy really broke my heart. I've read books before where some tragic event happened a bit too soon and I wasn't invested in the story just yet. I couldn't feel for the character until I finished it and read the book again. Not this time. The author managed to draw me in so quick, it was crazy. I could feel her pain and it was just so heartbreaking.
And just like Cody, she wasn't aggressive. I was really hoping they would've kissed at least once already. But I get it though. No contact. No explanation. And now he's supposedly with someone she (and even he) can't stand... I understand why she's not even bothering with it, and I really love that about her. She's not being immature and dramatic over it. She's aware of her feelings, and she understands that the situation sucks, but she doesn't throw a fit just because he appears to be unavailable. For me, she's a damn good protagonist.
I'm definitely not a fan of Lynette or the guys. But I don't think this book would've been the same without the conflict from them.
I absolutely love Mandi though! She's fun and feisty, but also caring and protective. She's everything you'd ask for in a best friend. I'm definitely a fan of her. I hope we get to see more of her in the other books.
I was a bit shocked to learn when this story takes place. If the date wasn't written in the book, I would've assumed it took place now.
Strong & Wilde was better than expected. I absolutely love LG's previous books and she set the bar pretty high with the Broken Angel series, so I assumed it would be just as great as those books. This was way better and I didn't think it was possible to beat Lash! She definitely did not disappoint with this book. It's a strong start to what appears to be a great novella series. I just wish several (and longer) books were planned!
I think the readers will definitely go wild for Wilde.
September 11, 2014
My Review:
Once again L.G. Castillo has created an amazing set of characters and tells a powerful story. I am a huge fan of her Broken Angels Series and I am happy to say I am now a fan of this series. This is a novella series and of course the ending has a cliffhanger and totally worth a read. I am really looking forward to not only seeing what happens but learning more about these wonderful characters.
Cody Wilde is a sexy and sensitive, a guy with a huge heart. My heart broke for him in the beginning of this book, no kid should have to go through what he did and being the good son he listened to his father and promised not to get in trouble anymore. Which was kind of hard when you have a few nasty bullies in your school.
Cassie Strong is an independent, very caring and an adorable character. She loves going camping with her father but when her dad invites Cody along she is less than thrilled. Cody over hears Cassie tell her father that she doesn’t want him there and soon she has to apologize only to realize that Cody isn’t that bad and they pretty much become very good friends.
I loved the progression of this story, it wasn’t long and you kind of jumped ahead a few times which made the story very interesting and had a great flow. You get it told in both Cassie and Cody’s POV, it is never confusing, it really helps the story’s flow. Reading both POV’s it really pulls at your heart knowing how they each feel about what is going on around them and how they feel about each other. This book packs a lot in only 130 pages, filled with emotion and two characters that have great chemistry. Even the secondary characters add so much to the story, you will hate Seth and his group and LOVE Cassie’s BBF Mandi.
L.G. Castillo is an amazing writer and she tells the most wonderful stories. I honestly didn’t know what to expect after reading Lash (how can you top Lash!!!) but I have to say she has done an outstanding job drawing me into another one of her series that I know will be a MUST read for me. I cannot wait for the next one!!!
Recommend: 100%
This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
Once again L.G. Castillo has created an amazing set of characters and tells a powerful story. I am a huge fan of her Broken Angels Series and I am happy to say I am now a fan of this series. This is a novella series and of course the ending has a cliffhanger and totally worth a read. I am really looking forward to not only seeing what happens but learning more about these wonderful characters.
Cody Wilde is a sexy and sensitive, a guy with a huge heart. My heart broke for him in the beginning of this book, no kid should have to go through what he did and being the good son he listened to his father and promised not to get in trouble anymore. Which was kind of hard when you have a few nasty bullies in your school.
Cassie Strong is an independent, very caring and an adorable character. She loves going camping with her father but when her dad invites Cody along she is less than thrilled. Cody over hears Cassie tell her father that she doesn’t want him there and soon she has to apologize only to realize that Cody isn’t that bad and they pretty much become very good friends.
I loved the progression of this story, it wasn’t long and you kind of jumped ahead a few times which made the story very interesting and had a great flow. You get it told in both Cassie and Cody’s POV, it is never confusing, it really helps the story’s flow. Reading both POV’s it really pulls at your heart knowing how they each feel about what is going on around them and how they feel about each other. This book packs a lot in only 130 pages, filled with emotion and two characters that have great chemistry. Even the secondary characters add so much to the story, you will hate Seth and his group and LOVE Cassie’s BBF Mandi.
L.G. Castillo is an amazing writer and she tells the most wonderful stories. I honestly didn’t know what to expect after reading Lash (how can you top Lash!!!) but I have to say she has done an outstanding job drawing me into another one of her series that I know will be a MUST read for me. I cannot wait for the next one!!!
Recommend: 100%
Thank you so much for stopping by to check out my review
Hope you have a great day and Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
October 13, 2014
A Sweet Surprise!
Let me start by saying that you should never judge a book by its cover! I was in the mood for a little hot romance and the cover of Strong and Wilde (Part 1) features a hot cowboy. So, I’m thinking that I’m good to go...didn’t read the blurb or reviews.
The story itself was a sweet story of childhood friendship that was just beginning to blossom into something more as part one comes to a close...with a cliffhanger! Really should have read that blurb!
Strong and Wilde is written in the first person, from two separate, alternating viewpoints, that of Cody and then Cassie. I don’t see this often myself, but I liked it in this story. Overall, it was well written. There were a few typos, which were mildly distracting, but we all make those. Sometimes neither we, nor our editors catch them, and they, unfortunately, make it into the final version.
Both Cody and Cassie are likeable and their experiences tug at your heartstrings. I found myself teary-eyed more than once, and I am really hoping that their bond will continue to flourish. I’m also anxious to learn what will become of their friends’ budding romance and for those hateful bullies to get what’s coming to them! Guess I’ll have to read Part 2...
Let me start by saying that you should never judge a book by its cover! I was in the mood for a little hot romance and the cover of Strong and Wilde (Part 1) features a hot cowboy. So, I’m thinking that I’m good to go...didn’t read the blurb or reviews.
The story itself was a sweet story of childhood friendship that was just beginning to blossom into something more as part one comes to a close...with a cliffhanger! Really should have read that blurb!
Strong and Wilde is written in the first person, from two separate, alternating viewpoints, that of Cody and then Cassie. I don’t see this often myself, but I liked it in this story. Overall, it was well written. There were a few typos, which were mildly distracting, but we all make those. Sometimes neither we, nor our editors catch them, and they, unfortunately, make it into the final version.
Both Cody and Cassie are likeable and their experiences tug at your heartstrings. I found myself teary-eyed more than once, and I am really hoping that their bond will continue to flourish. I’m also anxious to learn what will become of their friends’ budding romance and for those hateful bullies to get what’s coming to them! Guess I’ll have to read Part 2...
October 10, 2014
Cassie and Cody
Very good Characters and Story right up to where the book ended.
Obviously this book is sold chapter by chapter which always turns me off by the avarice - not something I'll be reading further.
Very good Characters and Story right up to where the book ended.
Obviously this book is sold chapter by chapter which always turns me off by the avarice - not something I'll be reading further.
October 5, 2014
Not a fan
I'm not a fan of loose ends, and incomplete stories. What a shame. I bet it would have been good.....if it was finished.
I'm not a fan of loose ends, and incomplete stories. What a shame. I bet it would have been good.....if it was finished.
July 6, 2024
Strong & Wilde Part 1 (Strong & Wilde #1) by L.G. Castillo – This story comes as a three part novella series or as one complete novel {Strong & Wilde (A Cowboy's Promise) by L.G. Castillo}. Be prepared for the cliff hanger if you go the novella route! For a high school romance, there is a lot of sadness packed into this first third! Happy Reading!
October 12, 2017
Terrific
Cody's dad is in jail and dying, he is 10. Cassie's dad is a deputy, she is 10. What brings them together is a camping trip. A 17 she looses her father. She is back and now they both a 18. And is the bully's are still there.
Cody's dad is in jail and dying, he is 10. Cassie's dad is a deputy, she is 10. What brings them together is a camping trip. A 17 she looses her father. She is back and now they both a 18. And is the bully's are still there.
August 5, 2018
A real cliffhanger
When Cassie and Cody are separated because Cassie's dad dies and her mom moves just when she and Cody are reunited. Fast forward to senior year and Cassie returns, to learn the friend she found is actually her love, but is it too late for them?
When Cassie and Cody are separated because Cassie's dad dies and her mom moves just when she and Cody are reunited. Fast forward to senior year and Cassie returns, to learn the friend she found is actually her love, but is it too late for them?
June 27, 2020
Bonita
Es una novela juvenil muy sencilla y corta pero muy bonita. Dos chicos que por circunstancias de la vida comparten tiempo juntos el día de su cumpleaños y se vuelven mejores amigos, se ven obligados a separarse. Una lectura amena.
Es una novela juvenil muy sencilla y corta pero muy bonita. Dos chicos que por circunstancias de la vida comparten tiempo juntos el día de su cumpleaños y se vuelven mejores amigos, se ven obligados a separarse. Una lectura amena.
July 30, 2018
Not impressed that it's a multi part short story. I don't remember it saying that when I downloaded it.
November 5, 2019
Muy buena trama muy corto para.mi gusto
Read
January 13, 2020Wow!
This book was amazing! It had major twists, descriptive language and a captivating plot. Everything that I look for in a good book.
This book was amazing! It had major twists, descriptive language and a captivating plot. Everything that I look for in a good book.
June 7, 2021
This book surprised me and ended up being so much more than I thought. It's an amazing read. A fast paced page turner with an ending you won't see coming. Can't wait to read the next in the series.
January 11, 2022
Serial
I took a star off because it's a serial. I hate serials. They draw you in and don't finish the story. I DO NOT recommend these authors or their books.
I took a star off because it's a serial. I hate serials. They draw you in and don't finish the story. I DO NOT recommend these authors or their books.
November 26, 2023
Honestly, it felt like nothing really happened. This is probably another case where all three parts could’ve been combined into one book.
March 11, 2017
I very much enjoyed this story. It is set in the 80s, and the author does an excellent job of capturing the sense of that time, including small town life in rural Texas.
Cody Wilde and Cassie Strong have been friends since Cassie’s father invited him to their annual camping trip after Cody’s father died. I liked how Cassie’s conflicted emotions were described with this development. It was very honest, and fitting for a girl her age and in her situation.
They drift apart for a while, but reconnect when they’re seniors in high school. Their friendship is bit strained due to changed dynamics, which is actually lovely to read. They clearly have feelings for each other, but are both too scared to admit it.
Cassie experiences a terrible tragedy, which should bring her closer to Cody, but high school antics get in the way. I found myself rooting for them to have the opportunity to really talk; a testament to the author’s skill in creating relatable characters.
The book ends on a cliffhanger, which left me eager to pick up the next book in the series!
Cody Wilde and Cassie Strong have been friends since Cassie’s father invited him to their annual camping trip after Cody’s father died. I liked how Cassie’s conflicted emotions were described with this development. It was very honest, and fitting for a girl her age and in her situation.
They drift apart for a while, but reconnect when they’re seniors in high school. Their friendship is bit strained due to changed dynamics, which is actually lovely to read. They clearly have feelings for each other, but are both too scared to admit it.
Cassie experiences a terrible tragedy, which should bring her closer to Cody, but high school antics get in the way. I found myself rooting for them to have the opportunity to really talk; a testament to the author’s skill in creating relatable characters.
The book ends on a cliffhanger, which left me eager to pick up the next book in the series!
March 7, 2017
Cassie and Cody’s lives were intertwined when tragedy strikes. When it hits again they find the space they allowed to grow between them too big for comfort but Cassie has plans to rectify that. When she moves back into town, she finds herself drawn to him; if only their old enemies weren’t still in charge.
This begins as a sweet romance, starting as children and learning how to trust each other. Just as the book begins to get interesting it stops. I was really disappointed by the abrupt cliffhanger that left the readers dangling.
This begins as a sweet romance, starting as children and learning how to trust each other. Just as the book begins to get interesting it stops. I was really disappointed by the abrupt cliffhanger that left the readers dangling.
October 2, 2014
STRONG & WILDE
Part I
The story begins in 1980 in the small town of Koppe, at the time of the main characters childhood. This brings us back to how they met and became friends (trust me, the second part was not so easy).
Cody Wilde came from a poor family, whose father was in prison for accidentally killing a man after a binge. His father was one of the thousands of victims who suffer from post traumatic syndrome, the war.
While visiting his father in prison on his 10th birthday and see his father so badly, dying of cancer, Cody's father made him promise to keep out of trouble.
Cody had support from his mother and his uncle Mike, who suffered from episodes of OCD also post war trauma.
There were two things that were on the Wilde trademark. One was a dimple on her left cheek. The other was:
"The Wilde man's love is strong. It'll see you through good times and bad. We do not give our hearts to just anyone, but when we do it's forever."
The following year, his friendship with Cassie begins. Both were the same age, born on the same day, and almost as a target link, Cassie's father was present when Cody was born.
Their friendship grew and every year Cody was going camping with Cassie and her father, Dale. A ritual birthday between father and daughter.
Cody moved to Salt Lake City and when back is turned. Cassie feels some kind of chemistry by her friend, and also guilty for feeling that way. But like a stab of fate, Cassie's father dies and this time it is she who moves with her mom to Houston.
When the two meet is the time in high school.
Friends, but the distance separated them, and now there are so many problems between them ... How would continue where they left off?
But the feeling of belonging was among them, was in Koppe, was in the secrets they shared, and that love could grow, they would still have to go through some tribulations ...
Even though the author told the book is divided - that means there are cliffhangers. And everyone who knows me knows that I hate cliff - the story holds you all the time.
In the last scene we get to the heart in the mouth. The wait for the next part is excruciating, but definitely Cody and Cassie went to the hall of fame of my favorite couples.
5 STARS
Part I
The story begins in 1980 in the small town of Koppe, at the time of the main characters childhood. This brings us back to how they met and became friends (trust me, the second part was not so easy).
Cody Wilde came from a poor family, whose father was in prison for accidentally killing a man after a binge. His father was one of the thousands of victims who suffer from post traumatic syndrome, the war.
While visiting his father in prison on his 10th birthday and see his father so badly, dying of cancer, Cody's father made him promise to keep out of trouble.
Cody had support from his mother and his uncle Mike, who suffered from episodes of OCD also post war trauma.
There were two things that were on the Wilde trademark. One was a dimple on her left cheek. The other was:
"The Wilde man's love is strong. It'll see you through good times and bad. We do not give our hearts to just anyone, but when we do it's forever."
The following year, his friendship with Cassie begins. Both were the same age, born on the same day, and almost as a target link, Cassie's father was present when Cody was born.
Their friendship grew and every year Cody was going camping with Cassie and her father, Dale. A ritual birthday between father and daughter.
Cody moved to Salt Lake City and when back is turned. Cassie feels some kind of chemistry by her friend, and also guilty for feeling that way. But like a stab of fate, Cassie's father dies and this time it is she who moves with her mom to Houston.
When the two meet is the time in high school.
Friends, but the distance separated them, and now there are so many problems between them ... How would continue where they left off?
But the feeling of belonging was among them, was in Koppe, was in the secrets they shared, and that love could grow, they would still have to go through some tribulations ...
Even though the author told the book is divided - that means there are cliffhangers. And everyone who knows me knows that I hate cliff - the story holds you all the time.
In the last scene we get to the heart in the mouth. The wait for the next part is excruciating, but definitely Cody and Cassie went to the hall of fame of my favorite couples.
5 STARS
November 9, 2014
Among the stories I've read, this was the only one where there were two whole families to begin with—for the most part. Usually, I'd come across reads wherein the issues start with dysfunctional families, where broken families play a part. An abusive father. An unfaithful husband. The list goes on. But this, they loved wholeheartedly. This they loved with their all. Nothing less.
"You're not like the other guys. You always look me in the eyes."
This book symbolized the importance of family. It doesn't have to be one of blood, but of one where you can call home. And this—in so many words—showed that. The roles that these two fathers played were unifiers and that alone was so significant in this story that the path they left was so that it was prominent. A role never to be replaced.
Cody Wilde and Cassie Strong's bond of friendship date back to a pinky swear. A few years forward, an unforeseen incident causes Cassie to lean on the only person there—Cody. A mixture of family and friendship, Cody learns that him caring for Cassie may be the very reason to break his promise to his father.
The story had me so wound up. It was just heartfelt. And everything, effortlessly worded. From what I've read, this seemed to be a coming-of-age story. I've always had a liking to books with these types of premises. All things southern!! And a lot of family. I still can't tell what's coming up. Cannot wait to read the next installment!! I feel the build up already!
April 21, 2015
***ARC PROVIDED BY AUTHOR FOR AN HONEST REVIEW***
I honestly wasn't expecting to love this book as much as I did from the moment I began reading Cody owned my heart his heartbreak became my pain. The Wildes were known for their wild ways and short temper especially his father who suffered from post traumatic stress after the war he took on drinking and that brought more trouble. One night he went too far and the mayors son ended up getting hurt really bad. J.D Codys dad ended up in jail and no longer able to provide for his family. Things didn't improve from there the beautiful relationship that his parents had diminished and they only have the support of his uncle Mike during this difficult time which only led to a bigger loss. Cody lost his father it completely shattered my heart his only consolation comes in the form of a friend Cassie. They become friends her father becomes a father figure for him and they experience a bond like no other. He has to move but when he returns new feelings emerge now grown up Cassie and Cody begin to feel more than friendship towards one another but Cody has enemies who live to make his life miserable. The Baker brothers Cody made a promise to his father the last time he saw him before he passed away to not be like him and get into trouble so he has avoided confrontation from these three bullies. The only way to avoid any trouble for Cassie, Cody decides it's best to avoid her so he doesn't attract them to her. Cassie oblivious to it all only wants to get closer to him. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book.
I honestly wasn't expecting to love this book as much as I did from the moment I began reading Cody owned my heart his heartbreak became my pain. The Wildes were known for their wild ways and short temper especially his father who suffered from post traumatic stress after the war he took on drinking and that brought more trouble. One night he went too far and the mayors son ended up getting hurt really bad. J.D Codys dad ended up in jail and no longer able to provide for his family. Things didn't improve from there the beautiful relationship that his parents had diminished and they only have the support of his uncle Mike during this difficult time which only led to a bigger loss. Cody lost his father it completely shattered my heart his only consolation comes in the form of a friend Cassie. They become friends her father becomes a father figure for him and they experience a bond like no other. He has to move but when he returns new feelings emerge now grown up Cassie and Cody begin to feel more than friendship towards one another but Cody has enemies who live to make his life miserable. The Baker brothers Cody made a promise to his father the last time he saw him before he passed away to not be like him and get into trouble so he has avoided confrontation from these three bullies. The only way to avoid any trouble for Cassie, Cody decides it's best to avoid her so he doesn't attract them to her. Cassie oblivious to it all only wants to get closer to him. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book.
September 23, 2014
Strong and Wilde is a series of novella that is being released in three parts from my understanding. In part one; we are introduced to the characters of Cassie Strong and Cody Wilde. In this first part we see them as children as they are faced with challenges in their lives that most children hope to never face. The characters are developed in a full and strong way, to the point that you can really see who they are as you read. Cody, the quite loner cowboy, and Cassie, the devoted "daddy's girl" are characters that are relatable and real. By the end of this part, the two are teenagers, and their once close friendship is starting to pull at the two to be more than friends.
The story itself starts off slow as the characters and their background are developed. However the author never lets the flow lag to the point that the reader will want to quit reading. Once it picks up, it is a wonderful quick read that leaves your biting your nails for the next one. Oh yes, e-reader took some damage. Because this is the first in the series, the story is not yet over. From what I have seen in this first part, I have a feeling that if the three parts are put together it would make one amazing romance novel.
I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys contemporary romance with a western feel to it. Even though it is set in modern times for the most part, it is also set in Texas and has that cowboy feel to it. It makes it fun and entertaining to read.
The story itself starts off slow as the characters and their background are developed. However the author never lets the flow lag to the point that the reader will want to quit reading. Once it picks up, it is a wonderful quick read that leaves your biting your nails for the next one. Oh yes, e-reader took some damage. Because this is the first in the series, the story is not yet over. From what I have seen in this first part, I have a feeling that if the three parts are put together it would make one amazing romance novel.
I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys contemporary romance with a western feel to it. Even though it is set in modern times for the most part, it is also set in Texas and has that cowboy feel to it. It makes it fun and entertaining to read.
July 13, 2015
I like this book it had a definite slice of life vibe to it and was through and through romance book. The plot line focused entirely on the life of the couple, not normally my cup of tea but there was a lot drama to keep it interesting.
At the start of the book a was certainly feeling the feels because of what happens to Cody at the beginning.
I was attached to characters at the start but then the plot started to drag about half way through .
This was a a very sweet love story but it is not a erotic novel, the sex scenes are quite sparse and clean, so if you like your romance book have some spice in that department I don't think this book is for you.
I think overall some of the drama was in the book just for the sake of it, especially after the point in the book I mentioned above. I started to become disengaged with the story and wanting to know what happened next. I enjoyed the first half of the book which is why I have given it 3 stars but it did not engage me enough to give it 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
At the start of the book a was certainly feeling the feels because of what happens to Cody at the beginning.
I was attached to characters at the start but then the plot started to drag about half way through .
This was a a very sweet love story but it is not a erotic novel, the sex scenes are quite sparse and clean, so if you like your romance book have some spice in that department I don't think this book is for you.
I think overall some of the drama was in the book just for the sake of it, especially after the point in the book I mentioned above. I started to become disengaged with the story and wanting to know what happened next. I enjoyed the first half of the book which is why I have given it 3 stars but it did not engage me enough to give it 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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