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Wilder #3
I Want You
The police are in on it. That’s the only explanation.
But I am the police, and I’ve got my eye on them now.
After wrapping up the biggest case of my career, I should feel…something. My small town doesn’t see murder very often, so when all the pieces to find the perpetrator fall into place, it’s a slam dunk to get this criminal off the streets. He’s maintaining his innocence, but who wouldn’t when faced with a murder charge?
When my brother’s best friend, Wesley Winters, is brought in by the defendant to clear his name and new evidence comes to light - evidence that was covered up - I have to consider the worst…maybe we did get the wrong guy. And when Scarlett Hart is being threatened, simply because of her association to me, it’s up to me to keep her safe. And I won’t let anyone or anything stop me from protecting Scarlett.
If only I could protect my heart from her.
But I am the police, and I’ve got my eye on them now.
After wrapping up the biggest case of my career, I should feel…something. My small town doesn’t see murder very often, so when all the pieces to find the perpetrator fall into place, it’s a slam dunk to get this criminal off the streets. He’s maintaining his innocence, but who wouldn’t when faced with a murder charge?
When my brother’s best friend, Wesley Winters, is brought in by the defendant to clear his name and new evidence comes to light - evidence that was covered up - I have to consider the worst…maybe we did get the wrong guy. And when Scarlett Hart is being threatened, simply because of her association to me, it’s up to me to keep her safe. And I won’t let anyone or anything stop me from protecting Scarlett.
If only I could protect my heart from her.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 23, 2025
12 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Isla Stelmark
5 books43 followersIsla Stelmark, a contemporary romance author, grew up in a coastal Massachusetts town that she continues to call home. Isla is a lifelong book enthusiast, and dedicates her days to writing untamed love stories with authentic, relatable characters. When not writing, Isla enjoys immersing herself in a good book with a cup of coffee and cuddling with her two cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
September 23, 2025
4,75⭐️ - oddly specific i know
tropes:
- small town romance
- protective hero
- romantic suspense
- no third act breakup
- surprise pregnancy
- law enforcement
- friends-to-lovers
- slow burn
ARC review: (Thank you Greys Promotions for the ARC!)
From the beginning, I knew I was going to love this book. And that I did!! I didnt read the first two books in the series before this and I still had an amazing time and I want to read them very soon!
Luke and Scarlett are everything. Luke Wilder...the man that you are!!! He truly is a daddy cop🙂↕️🧎♀️ (iykyk)
I loved the murder mystery in this! I think romantic suspense is such an amazing subgenre of romance!
I loved the setting of the small town, I love a good small town family with several siblings, which this was!
The ending was in my opinion a little rushed hence why I think I wouldnt have minded if the book had been a little longer, dragging out the romance just a tiny bit as well as the murder mystery. The mystery wrapped up pretty quickly and I wanted more of it.
Also, I think it could have been fun to see scenes of their friendship over the years before they acted on their feelings.
But overall, I really really loved it and I definitely recommend it!! The author also teased a possible fourth book and the couple and I am so EXCITED for that one!!!
tropes:
- small town romance
- protective hero
- romantic suspense
- no third act breakup
- surprise pregnancy
- law enforcement
- friends-to-lovers
- slow burn
ARC review: (Thank you Greys Promotions for the ARC!)
From the beginning, I knew I was going to love this book. And that I did!! I didnt read the first two books in the series before this and I still had an amazing time and I want to read them very soon!
Luke and Scarlett are everything. Luke Wilder...the man that you are!!! He truly is a daddy cop🙂↕️🧎♀️ (iykyk)
I loved the murder mystery in this! I think romantic suspense is such an amazing subgenre of romance!
I loved the setting of the small town, I love a good small town family with several siblings, which this was!
The ending was in my opinion a little rushed hence why I think I wouldnt have minded if the book had been a little longer, dragging out the romance just a tiny bit as well as the murder mystery. The mystery wrapped up pretty quickly and I wanted more of it.
Also, I think it could have been fun to see scenes of their friendship over the years before they acted on their feelings.
But overall, I really really loved it and I definitely recommend it!! The author also teased a possible fourth book and the couple and I am so EXCITED for that one!!!
September 13, 2025
I think I may have just found my new favourite genre, murder mystery romance! I haven’t read the rest of the Wilder series and I do think this might have helped a bit with character recognition but it worked well as a standalone and I am keen to read the rest now!
Luke & Scarlett are a dream couple, I love the basis of their story and the intertwining of all the sub plots. I wasn’t convinced on the whole murder mystery thing at first but I was about a quarter of the way into the book and all of a sudden I was hooked and determined to try and solve the mystery myself!
The narrative and style of writing in this are great, I love how Scarlett’s pov are a monologue of her ramblings, especially around Luke! I love how tentative they both are and make normal decisions and have normal conversations - I can completely see how this could play out In real life!
The icing on the cake for me was all the other siblings & their partners and their brutal honesty, no beating about the bush, you’ve not been fooling anyone about their feelings!
Loved it, very grateful for the ARC read and keen to read more of Isla Stelmark in the future!
Luke & Scarlett are a dream couple, I love the basis of their story and the intertwining of all the sub plots. I wasn’t convinced on the whole murder mystery thing at first but I was about a quarter of the way into the book and all of a sudden I was hooked and determined to try and solve the mystery myself!
The narrative and style of writing in this are great, I love how Scarlett’s pov are a monologue of her ramblings, especially around Luke! I love how tentative they both are and make normal decisions and have normal conversations - I can completely see how this could play out In real life!
The icing on the cake for me was all the other siblings & their partners and their brutal honesty, no beating about the bush, you’ve not been fooling anyone about their feelings!
Loved it, very grateful for the ARC read and keen to read more of Isla Stelmark in the future!
September 20, 2025
What To Expect:
- small town romance
- law enforcement
- romantic suspense
- friends to lovers
- slow burn
- 3rd book in a interconnected series
man i completely devoured this book! isla stelmark does a great job at hooking you into the story from the very first page!
i believe this is my first time ever reading a book about a police officer and a dispatcher so i really loved the new dynamic/aspect of reading that. you even get a little murder mystery in the book as well which made it even more enjoyable!
i definitely recommend giving this one a read especially if you want a good slow town romance with some suspenseful moments and some heat!
thank you so much greys promo for giving me the chance to read this e-arc!
- small town romance
- law enforcement
- romantic suspense
- friends to lovers
- slow burn
- 3rd book in a interconnected series
man i completely devoured this book! isla stelmark does a great job at hooking you into the story from the very first page!
i believe this is my first time ever reading a book about a police officer and a dispatcher so i really loved the new dynamic/aspect of reading that. you even get a little murder mystery in the book as well which made it even more enjoyable!
i definitely recommend giving this one a read especially if you want a good slow town romance with some suspenseful moments and some heat!
thank you so much greys promo for giving me the chance to read this e-arc!
September 22, 2025
I am really enjoying this series!
Sometimes people are in the wrong relationship and they just can’t see it.
Luke is stuck in a marriage that doesn’t work but everyone can see there’s a good thing waiting for him right under his nose.
I thought it was interesting Luke saw Scarlett as his best friend but it didn’t take more than a suggestion to make him open his eyes.
I loved Luke and Scarlett together against the background of their friends and relatives who knew it long before either of them admitted it.
There’s nothing worse than a dirty cop and there’s a couple in this story.
I can’t wait until Seb and Lydia’s story comes out!
Thanks to Sconticut Publishing and Grey’s Promotion for the advance copy.
Sometimes people are in the wrong relationship and they just can’t see it.
Luke is stuck in a marriage that doesn’t work but everyone can see there’s a good thing waiting for him right under his nose.
I thought it was interesting Luke saw Scarlett as his best friend but it didn’t take more than a suggestion to make him open his eyes.
I loved Luke and Scarlett together against the background of their friends and relatives who knew it long before either of them admitted it.
There’s nothing worse than a dirty cop and there’s a couple in this story.
I can’t wait until Seb and Lydia’s story comes out!
Thanks to Sconticut Publishing and Grey’s Promotion for the advance copy.
October 1, 2025
“I Want You” is a warm, cozy, and emotionally rich story that truly touched my heart.
Luke’s journey is filled with heartbreaking challenges, but through it all, his heart finds the one it was always meant for. Scarlett, with her unwavering patience and firm boundaries, is a pillar of strength. Yet when life throws her an unexpected curve, she’s forced to confront the possibility that the fantasy she’s held onto might finally become her reality.
As their slow-burn romance begins to ignite, a powerful twist threatens to unravel everything. But through vulnerability, fear, passion, and love, Luke and Scarlett invite us into their world—and you feel everything. Their connection is raw, real, and unforgettable.
Isla Stelmark’s writing is absolutely beautiful. Each chapter is captivating, pulling you deeper into the emotional core of the story. I loved every moment of this book.
Luke’s journey is filled with heartbreaking challenges, but through it all, his heart finds the one it was always meant for. Scarlett, with her unwavering patience and firm boundaries, is a pillar of strength. Yet when life throws her an unexpected curve, she’s forced to confront the possibility that the fantasy she’s held onto might finally become her reality.
As their slow-burn romance begins to ignite, a powerful twist threatens to unravel everything. But through vulnerability, fear, passion, and love, Luke and Scarlett invite us into their world—and you feel everything. Their connection is raw, real, and unforgettable.
Isla Stelmark’s writing is absolutely beautiful. Each chapter is captivating, pulling you deeper into the emotional core of the story. I loved every moment of this book.
September 27, 2025
✨ARC✨
4,5 ⭐️ je me découvre un amour pour les romances-thriller, j’en aurais pris plus!! Oui j’ai vu venir certaine twist, mais d’autre pas du tout! J’ai adoré Scarlett et Luke (!!!), leur relation qui passe d’amis à amoureux, on ressentait le désir, la tension, c’était beauuuu. J’ai aimé suivre les deux enquêtes tout au long de l’histoire, ça m’a tenue bien investie! Pis la j’ai vrm le goût d’aller lire les deux autres tome de la série parce que j’adore déjà toute la famille Wilder!
dispo depuis le 23 septembre!
4,5 ⭐️ je me découvre un amour pour les romances-thriller, j’en aurais pris plus!! Oui j’ai vu venir certaine twist, mais d’autre pas du tout! J’ai adoré Scarlett et Luke (!!!), leur relation qui passe d’amis à amoureux, on ressentait le désir, la tension, c’était beauuuu. J’ai aimé suivre les deux enquêtes tout au long de l’histoire, ça m’a tenue bien investie! Pis la j’ai vrm le goût d’aller lire les deux autres tome de la série parce que j’adore déjà toute la famille Wilder!
dispo depuis le 23 septembre!
October 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What would happen when you thought you knew where your life was going. But everything ends in shambles. The one person who you thought you loved, everyone else realized you fell out of love but it look her asking for a divorce for the lightbulb to go off. YOUR IN LOVE WITH YOUR BEST FRIEND STUPID!!!
The gitty I got in this book. Ooooof! I knew something would be tricky. Somehow I had a funny feeling…
Favorite quotes:
1. “Wes: Are you breaking up with me, Wilder?”
2. “| hadn't felt like did with Scarlett since I was in high school, chasing girls and getting my broken. Juliet could after heart never have broken my heart because i had never given it to her. Scarlett, on the other hand, just her friendship alone meant more to me than anything.”
3. “I had known as soon as he told me about his divorce that I wanted a chance to make Luke Wilder mine. But now that the opportunity was here, it felt too monumental. It sounded cliché, but having Luke in my life as a friend was far more important than risking it all and losing him.”
Are you ready for Luke and letty’s story? Buckle up, for this one!
What would happen when you thought you knew where your life was going. But everything ends in shambles. The one person who you thought you loved, everyone else realized you fell out of love but it look her asking for a divorce for the lightbulb to go off. YOUR IN LOVE WITH YOUR BEST FRIEND STUPID!!!
The gitty I got in this book. Ooooof! I knew something would be tricky. Somehow I had a funny feeling…
Favorite quotes:
1. “Wes: Are you breaking up with me, Wilder?”
2. “| hadn't felt like did with Scarlett since I was in high school, chasing girls and getting my broken. Juliet could after heart never have broken my heart because i had never given it to her. Scarlett, on the other hand, just her friendship alone meant more to me than anything.”
3. “I had known as soon as he told me about his divorce that I wanted a chance to make Luke Wilder mine. But now that the opportunity was here, it felt too monumental. It sounded cliché, but having Luke in my life as a friend was far more important than risking it all and losing him.”
Are you ready for Luke and letty’s story? Buckle up, for this one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2025
I Want You by Isla Stelmark is a classic small-town romance between a cop and a dispatcher. 💕
I really enjoyed Luke and Scarlett’s relationship—it was sweet, though it did feel like it moved a little too fast at times. The murder mystery element added a fun layer to the story, even if it leaned a bit on the cliché side. That said, the twist at the very end did catch me off guard
All in all a nice easy 4 star read.
I really enjoyed Luke and Scarlett’s relationship—it was sweet, though it did feel like it moved a little too fast at times. The murder mystery element added a fun layer to the story, even if it leaned a bit on the cliché side. That said, the twist at the very end did catch me off guard
All in all a nice easy 4 star read.
September 12, 2025
I Want You by Isla Stelmark was my first read of hers. As soon as I finished my ARC I immediately went back and downloaded the other two books in her Wilder series.
With a police case that has the markings of internal corruption and his marriage on the brink of failure, Luke Wilder is truly beside himself. This by the book cop with a strong moral compass is truly lost. Sure he has his family and friends, but he is just missing something.
Enter his co-worker turned friend Scarlett Hart. With fiery red hair and a penchant for adventure, she seamlessly fit in Luke’s life- even if she was crushing from afar.
As Luke’s marriage ends, and his new relationship begins, they are faced with a danger they didn’t realize could hit their small town.
This book did romantic suspense right! (And I feel Isla may have left us some little Easter eggs for books to come). I loved the small town and family dynamics Isla writes. And although this may be a slow burn, when the spice hits it is spicy!
Luke and Letty are the perfect match based on a solid friendship foundation. I hope you all love Luke, Letty, and the entire Wilder clan!
With a police case that has the markings of internal corruption and his marriage on the brink of failure, Luke Wilder is truly beside himself. This by the book cop with a strong moral compass is truly lost. Sure he has his family and friends, but he is just missing something.
Enter his co-worker turned friend Scarlett Hart. With fiery red hair and a penchant for adventure, she seamlessly fit in Luke’s life- even if she was crushing from afar.
As Luke’s marriage ends, and his new relationship begins, they are faced with a danger they didn’t realize could hit their small town.
This book did romantic suspense right! (And I feel Isla may have left us some little Easter eggs for books to come). I loved the small town and family dynamics Isla writes. And although this may be a slow burn, when the spice hits it is spicy!
Luke and Letty are the perfect match based on a solid friendship foundation. I hope you all love Luke, Letty, and the entire Wilder clan!
September 18, 2025
I Want You is the third book in Stelmark's Wilder series, however as someone who has not read the first two I can attest that it can be enjoyed as a standalone. This small town, friends to lovers, romantic suspense features Scarlett "Letty" Hart and Luke Wilder.
The day Scarlett started her job as a dispatcher for the Calla Bay Police department was the day she met Luke and quickly developed feelings for him. Unfortunately for Scarlett, Luke was married. The two however got along really well and became best friends.
Luke is one of the best police officers in the department. He and his partner, Matt Monroe, solved a murder and brought in the suspect. Luke is elated not only to have solved the case, but to bring justice to the young woman who was murdered. Soon thereafter he learns that his brother's best friend, Wesley (Wes) Winters, has been hired as a PI to try to clear the defendant. Wes has a theory; he believes someone in the department falsified evidence. Luke cannot believe there is corruption within his small town's police force and is keen to prove Wes wrong. He knows he got the right guy and the evidence proves it. But as Luke digs, things aren't adding up. His best friend, "Letty" wants to help and since no one watches her, she starts to dig around as well. Only she's not as invisible as she thinks because someone sends threats her way.
While I enjoyed the suspense aspect of this story, I really loved how Luke and Scarlett found their way to one another. Those two danced along that line for longer than I expected before jumping in with both feet. The characters are meant to be, and they have a lot of chemistry together. I love how they were adamant about maintaining their friendship should anything go awry. The mystery kept me on my toes, and while signs definitely pointed to the culprit, I enjoyed the build up and the little hints the author worked in.
The first book in this series was I Found You (brother Wyatt & Maeve's story), and the second was I Choose You (brother Reid & Claire's story). I'll definitely be circling back to those two when I have a chance as I enjoyed the author's writing style. I'm also excited that a fourth book in the series is planned - I Dare You. While there appear to be three Wilder brothers, they also have a sister. I'm already looking forward to it.
The day Scarlett started her job as a dispatcher for the Calla Bay Police department was the day she met Luke and quickly developed feelings for him. Unfortunately for Scarlett, Luke was married. The two however got along really well and became best friends.
Luke is one of the best police officers in the department. He and his partner, Matt Monroe, solved a murder and brought in the suspect. Luke is elated not only to have solved the case, but to bring justice to the young woman who was murdered. Soon thereafter he learns that his brother's best friend, Wesley (Wes) Winters, has been hired as a PI to try to clear the defendant. Wes has a theory; he believes someone in the department falsified evidence. Luke cannot believe there is corruption within his small town's police force and is keen to prove Wes wrong. He knows he got the right guy and the evidence proves it. But as Luke digs, things aren't adding up. His best friend, "Letty" wants to help and since no one watches her, she starts to dig around as well. Only she's not as invisible as she thinks because someone sends threats her way.
While I enjoyed the suspense aspect of this story, I really loved how Luke and Scarlett found their way to one another. Those two danced along that line for longer than I expected before jumping in with both feet. The characters are meant to be, and they have a lot of chemistry together. I love how they were adamant about maintaining their friendship should anything go awry. The mystery kept me on my toes, and while signs definitely pointed to the culprit, I enjoyed the build up and the little hints the author worked in.
The first book in this series was I Found You (brother Wyatt & Maeve's story), and the second was I Choose You (brother Reid & Claire's story). I'll definitely be circling back to those two when I have a chance as I enjoyed the author's writing style. I'm also excited that a fourth book in the series is planned - I Dare You. While there appear to be three Wilder brothers, they also have a sister. I'm already looking forward to it.
September 23, 2025
Thank you Isla Stelmark for providing this ARC of I Want You in exchange for an honest review.
Summary:
A small-town romance where long-time friends finally figure out what everyone else has known all along, with plenty of tension, messy history, and just enough intrigue at the police department to keep you turning the pages.
Honest Review:
This one was a fun ride, though I did feel like I’d have gotten more out of it if I’d already read the first two books in the series. The side characters clearly have backstories that spill into this plot, and while it works as a standalone, I kept thinking… maybe I should have done my homework first.
Luke and Scarlett? Total endgame. Everyone knew it, we knew it, their mothers probably knew it, yet it took Luke being literally told “dude, you like her” before he clued in. Men. Honestly.
Now, Luke and Juliet’s breakup? Yikes. An affair is bad enough, but an affair that leads to a pregnancy… and then he’s supposed to keep working side by side with Matt at the police station like nothing happened? Sorry, but no amount of “we’re professionals” would fix that. Trust in a partner is basically the number one rule, and that ship sank faster than Juliet’s morals.
As for the captain… the minute he appeared on page, I was suspicious. I didn’t buy the “just covering for a nephew” excuse for a second. He gave me main villain vibes from the jump, and lo and behold, the man did not disappoint in the despicable department.
Romance and spice-wise, if you didn’t see that lake scene leading to exactly what it did, then what book were you reading? Contraception didn’t even get a cameo appearance here, so yeah, I saw that Scarlett and Luke baby twist coming a mile off. I am curious, though, about their future domestic setup. Will they snag their own place, or be crashing at Wyatt’s forever? Guess that answer’s waiting in the next instalment.
Overall, I had fun with this one and I’ll definitely be catching up with the rest of the Wilder books. Who knows, maybe filling in those character backstories will bump up my appreciation for Luke and Scarlett’s story.
Summary:
A small-town romance where long-time friends finally figure out what everyone else has known all along, with plenty of tension, messy history, and just enough intrigue at the police department to keep you turning the pages.
Honest Review:
This one was a fun ride, though I did feel like I’d have gotten more out of it if I’d already read the first two books in the series. The side characters clearly have backstories that spill into this plot, and while it works as a standalone, I kept thinking… maybe I should have done my homework first.
Luke and Scarlett? Total endgame. Everyone knew it, we knew it, their mothers probably knew it, yet it took Luke being literally told “dude, you like her” before he clued in. Men. Honestly.
Now, Luke and Juliet’s breakup? Yikes. An affair is bad enough, but an affair that leads to a pregnancy… and then he’s supposed to keep working side by side with Matt at the police station like nothing happened? Sorry, but no amount of “we’re professionals” would fix that. Trust in a partner is basically the number one rule, and that ship sank faster than Juliet’s morals.
As for the captain… the minute he appeared on page, I was suspicious. I didn’t buy the “just covering for a nephew” excuse for a second. He gave me main villain vibes from the jump, and lo and behold, the man did not disappoint in the despicable department.
Romance and spice-wise, if you didn’t see that lake scene leading to exactly what it did, then what book were you reading? Contraception didn’t even get a cameo appearance here, so yeah, I saw that Scarlett and Luke baby twist coming a mile off. I am curious, though, about their future domestic setup. Will they snag their own place, or be crashing at Wyatt’s forever? Guess that answer’s waiting in the next instalment.
Overall, I had fun with this one and I’ll definitely be catching up with the rest of the Wilder books. Who knows, maybe filling in those character backstories will bump up my appreciation for Luke and Scarlett’s story.
September 25, 2025
A SMALL TOWN ROMANCE THAT TOUCHES YOUR HEART ❤️
I want you is one of the best friends to lover, Small Town romance I have read in long time. I love this book so much that I devoured it, and I still think about it, the characters and the plot. It has everything a good and enjoyable book should have, perfect pace, perfect Main leads and a plot that has perfect balance between the suspense that is on-going in story and Romance between main leads.
Scarlett moves to a new town to start her new job as Police dispatcher and on her very first day she runs into Luke, her coworker and she instantly get a crush on him, I mean who wouldn't. Luke is what I assume a gentleman should look like. But soon she gets a shock when she learns that Luke is married. On other hand, Luke who cares about her wife very much gets another shock of his life, that her wife is cheating on him and on top of that she is pregnant with that man's child. When he gets to know who her wife cheated on him with, he gets betrayal and angry. But being the gentleman, he is, he immediately back off and in more courteous with his wife or ex-wife as they get divorced and move on with their life.
After working together for long, Scarlett and Luke are practically best friend, so after divorcing his wife, Romance start blossoming between Scarlett and Luke and I am living for their romantic moments, it's cute and sexy. I mean Luke had always been protective of Scarlett but after divorce, he starts looking her in new light. Parallel to their romance and this drama, Luke is working on a murder case of a teenage girl and when her brother's best friend Wes, throws in that he has arrested wrong person he decided to re-open the case and asks for Scarlett's help but due to this Scarlett life gets threatened and Luke protects her with his everything. I love how Luke calls Scarlett "Letty" or 'Letty girl', It's so adorable and I love Luke's character, he is what I want in my future man and Scarlett, the women you are queen. Supportive, loving and Strong. Overall, this is one of the best Romantic books with Murder suspense that I have read in long time.
I want you is one of the best friends to lover, Small Town romance I have read in long time. I love this book so much that I devoured it, and I still think about it, the characters and the plot. It has everything a good and enjoyable book should have, perfect pace, perfect Main leads and a plot that has perfect balance between the suspense that is on-going in story and Romance between main leads.
Scarlett moves to a new town to start her new job as Police dispatcher and on her very first day she runs into Luke, her coworker and she instantly get a crush on him, I mean who wouldn't. Luke is what I assume a gentleman should look like. But soon she gets a shock when she learns that Luke is married. On other hand, Luke who cares about her wife very much gets another shock of his life, that her wife is cheating on him and on top of that she is pregnant with that man's child. When he gets to know who her wife cheated on him with, he gets betrayal and angry. But being the gentleman, he is, he immediately back off and in more courteous with his wife or ex-wife as they get divorced and move on with their life.
After working together for long, Scarlett and Luke are practically best friend, so after divorcing his wife, Romance start blossoming between Scarlett and Luke and I am living for their romantic moments, it's cute and sexy. I mean Luke had always been protective of Scarlett but after divorce, he starts looking her in new light. Parallel to their romance and this drama, Luke is working on a murder case of a teenage girl and when her brother's best friend Wes, throws in that he has arrested wrong person he decided to re-open the case and asks for Scarlett's help but due to this Scarlett life gets threatened and Luke protects her with his everything. I love how Luke calls Scarlett "Letty" or 'Letty girl', It's so adorable and I love Luke's character, he is what I want in my future man and Scarlett, the women you are queen. Supportive, loving and Strong. Overall, this is one of the best Romantic books with Murder suspense that I have read in long time.
September 19, 2025
Thank you Grey’s Promotions and Isla Stelmark for selecting me to read I Want You.
Overall 4.5/5 stars, rounded up to 5
3/5 chili peppers for spice. It’s open door and detailed. You can feel the tension, but the main focus is the relationship rather than the spice.
This is the third book in an interconnected standalone. You don’t need to read the others, but I think they are best read in order. There isn’t a whole lot that won’t make sense, but you’ll have some spoilers for the other books if you don’t read in order.
This is a romantic suspense that takes place in a small town. One of our main characters, Luke, is a police officer. Scarlett, his best friend, is a dispatcher. Luke realizes that there’s something off with the case he has just closed, and realizes that means that another cop is dirty. Around the same time that he’s wrestling with what to do about the potential dirty cop, he finds out that his wife is having an affair.
This book had me on the edge of my seat throughout much of it. There were some things I knew were going to happen based on the tension, but I also didn’t know how they were going to happen. There were several things that hit me like a ton of bricks, and for the last 25% of the book I was nearly white knuckling my kindle. I knew I liked romantic suspense books on occasion, but this one threw in a mystery element that I wasn’t expecting.
After finishing this one, it makes me want to go back and read the first two books, then read this one again.
Overall 4.5/5 stars, rounded up to 5
3/5 chili peppers for spice. It’s open door and detailed. You can feel the tension, but the main focus is the relationship rather than the spice.
This is the third book in an interconnected standalone. You don’t need to read the others, but I think they are best read in order. There isn’t a whole lot that won’t make sense, but you’ll have some spoilers for the other books if you don’t read in order.
This is a romantic suspense that takes place in a small town. One of our main characters, Luke, is a police officer. Scarlett, his best friend, is a dispatcher. Luke realizes that there’s something off with the case he has just closed, and realizes that means that another cop is dirty. Around the same time that he’s wrestling with what to do about the potential dirty cop, he finds out that his wife is having an affair.
This book had me on the edge of my seat throughout much of it. There were some things I knew were going to happen based on the tension, but I also didn’t know how they were going to happen. There were several things that hit me like a ton of bricks, and for the last 25% of the book I was nearly white knuckling my kindle. I knew I liked romantic suspense books on occasion, but this one threw in a mystery element that I wasn’t expecting.
After finishing this one, it makes me want to go back and read the first two books, then read this one again.
September 30, 2025
Thank you to @GreysPromotions and @SconticutPublisging for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I Want You hooked me right from the start. It mixes small town suspense with a romance that feels forbidden and irresistible. On one side, you’ve got a murder case that seems open and shut until new evidence makes you question everything. On the other, you’ve got the brother’s best friend trope, with all the tension and chemistry that comes with it. Isla Stelmark really knows how to keep you hooked and not wanting to stop reading.
The suspense had me second guessing everyone, and I loved how the twists unfolded without giving too much away too soon. At the same time, the relationship between the main character and Wesley Winters gave the story this emotional pull that made it impossible to put down. Their chemistry was strong, their banter amazing , and the vulnerability beneath it all made their romance feel believable and worth rooting for. Scarlett’s involvement added even more intensity, raising both the danger and the emotional stakes.
This book is a mix of tension, heat, and heart.
If you love romantic suspense that delivers on both the mystery and the heat, I Want You is the book for you!
4.25 Stars!!!
#IWantYou #IslaStelmark #RomanticSuspense #GreysPromotions
I Want You hooked me right from the start. It mixes small town suspense with a romance that feels forbidden and irresistible. On one side, you’ve got a murder case that seems open and shut until new evidence makes you question everything. On the other, you’ve got the brother’s best friend trope, with all the tension and chemistry that comes with it. Isla Stelmark really knows how to keep you hooked and not wanting to stop reading.
The suspense had me second guessing everyone, and I loved how the twists unfolded without giving too much away too soon. At the same time, the relationship between the main character and Wesley Winters gave the story this emotional pull that made it impossible to put down. Their chemistry was strong, their banter amazing , and the vulnerability beneath it all made their romance feel believable and worth rooting for. Scarlett’s involvement added even more intensity, raising both the danger and the emotional stakes.
This book is a mix of tension, heat, and heart.
If you love romantic suspense that delivers on both the mystery and the heat, I Want You is the book for you!
4.25 Stars!!!
#IWantYou #IslaStelmark #RomanticSuspense #GreysPromotions
September 15, 2025
I Want You
Scarlett & Luke are couple goals. Friends to lovers in the truest sense.
Friends for over 4 years, it's not until Luke's marriage dissolves that they are able to act on their feelings towards each other. Scarlett has had a crush on Luke since the moment she met him, hating herself a little because he was married. Meanwhile, Luke never acknowledged why he valued his friendship with Scarlett so much even though many of their friends and family could see his true feelings.
Isla has created a wonderful world and characters full of individual nuances. Incorporate a who dunnit type of mystery and you are hooked. Trying to work out who the guilty party is keeps you involved whilst the spice keeps you hot.
The chemistry between our two main characters jumps off the page and their hesitation to start anything in case it ruins their friendship feels real and grounded. The mystery reveal at the end is worth it (I mean I guessed half of it but not ALL of it). A few dropped clues throughout the book give you a hint of where the next book will go and I am already keen for that story.
A solid 4 star read for me. Lots of great characters and great relationships to keep you smiling the whole way through.
Scarlett & Luke are couple goals. Friends to lovers in the truest sense.
Friends for over 4 years, it's not until Luke's marriage dissolves that they are able to act on their feelings towards each other. Scarlett has had a crush on Luke since the moment she met him, hating herself a little because he was married. Meanwhile, Luke never acknowledged why he valued his friendship with Scarlett so much even though many of their friends and family could see his true feelings.
Isla has created a wonderful world and characters full of individual nuances. Incorporate a who dunnit type of mystery and you are hooked. Trying to work out who the guilty party is keeps you involved whilst the spice keeps you hot.
The chemistry between our two main characters jumps off the page and their hesitation to start anything in case it ruins their friendship feels real and grounded. The mystery reveal at the end is worth it (I mean I guessed half of it but not ALL of it). A few dropped clues throughout the book give you a hint of where the next book will go and I am already keen for that story.
A solid 4 star read for me. Lots of great characters and great relationships to keep you smiling the whole way through.
September 19, 2025
5/5:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Firstly, thank you to Isla Stelmark and Greys Promotion for the arc!!!
I have loved every book in this series and as hard as it is to pick a favorite this one might be it.
It was definitely a little different from the other two but I think that’s what made it so great.
I loved getting to see Luke and Scarlett’s friendship grow into something so beautiful. I’ve been waiting for their story from the moment I first read about them in the first book.
This book is filled with so many cute things I had to take notes.
There’s these little stolen glances they give one another. The way Luke speaks to Scarlett is so pure and loving. The way he thinks about her makes me want to kick my feet and scream. The tension between these two is out of the park.
The small town aspect of this book/series is one of my favorite things ever. Like why is my small town not like this???
Luke calling Scarlett’s Letty girl is also my favorite thing in the world. Hello??? it’s so cute.
I seriously have nothing but good things to say about this book and this series as a whole. These books haven’t failed to get my attention and suck me into this little small town world.
I can’t wait for everyone to read this book!!!
Firstly, thank you to Isla Stelmark and Greys Promotion for the arc!!!
I have loved every book in this series and as hard as it is to pick a favorite this one might be it.
It was definitely a little different from the other two but I think that’s what made it so great.
I loved getting to see Luke and Scarlett’s friendship grow into something so beautiful. I’ve been waiting for their story from the moment I first read about them in the first book.
This book is filled with so many cute things I had to take notes.
There’s these little stolen glances they give one another. The way Luke speaks to Scarlett is so pure and loving. The way he thinks about her makes me want to kick my feet and scream. The tension between these two is out of the park.
The small town aspect of this book/series is one of my favorite things ever. Like why is my small town not like this???
Luke calling Scarlett’s Letty girl is also my favorite thing in the world. Hello??? it’s so cute.
I seriously have nothing but good things to say about this book and this series as a whole. These books haven’t failed to get my attention and suck me into this little small town world.
I can’t wait for everyone to read this book!!!
September 17, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
I Want You by Isla Stelmark is Book 3 in the Wilder series, but it reads perfectly as a standalone.
This small-town romantic suspense delivers dual POVs from Luke a police officer and Scarlett a dispatcher, adding emotional depth and pulling you right into their world. The slow burn romance between them is handled beautifully; watching them grow from friends to lovers was a true highlight. The chemistry is undeniable, and the emotional payoff is worth the wait. I especially loved how protective Luke was when Scarlett was being threatened—he wasn’t going to let anyone stop him from keeping her safe.
The suspense and crime elements add an extra layer of intensity. The storyline is well-paced and strikes a strong balance between the unfolding romance and the murder mystery gripping the town. A plot involving a possibly innocent man and police corruption kept me turning pages, and the sharp twists throughout had me hooked. That final twist? I did not see it coming!
If you’re into small-town romance with plenty of heat and a solid suspense thread, this one’s definitely worth checking out!
Thanks to Greys Promotion and Isla Stelmark for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I Want You by Isla Stelmark is Book 3 in the Wilder series, but it reads perfectly as a standalone.
This small-town romantic suspense delivers dual POVs from Luke a police officer and Scarlett a dispatcher, adding emotional depth and pulling you right into their world. The slow burn romance between them is handled beautifully; watching them grow from friends to lovers was a true highlight. The chemistry is undeniable, and the emotional payoff is worth the wait. I especially loved how protective Luke was when Scarlett was being threatened—he wasn’t going to let anyone stop him from keeping her safe.
The suspense and crime elements add an extra layer of intensity. The storyline is well-paced and strikes a strong balance between the unfolding romance and the murder mystery gripping the town. A plot involving a possibly innocent man and police corruption kept me turning pages, and the sharp twists throughout had me hooked. That final twist? I did not see it coming!
If you’re into small-town romance with plenty of heat and a solid suspense thread, this one’s definitely worth checking out!
Thanks to Greys Promotion and Isla Stelmark for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
September 17, 2025
This book had my heart GUSHING AHHHHH. This is the first book I’ve read in the series and I am going back ASAP to read all the others. I honestly wish I had already because there were so many gorgeous storyline’s being recapped and also continued in this book! However I still have no idea who Sebastian is and how he relates to the group, but I do look forward to his book being next (I assume).
Luke, my sweet man. The way I felt such an instant attachment and love to him. He has me willing to ride at dawn for him from the get go. I was FUMING on his behalf so often. The amount of times I was shouting at my kindle calling him a fool though, both him and Scarlett were so blind to each other’s feelings.
And my gorgeous Scarlett, I love her so much. I’m so glad she got her happiness, she deserves the absolute world. Her sunshine is infectious and I’m going to miss her and I hope I get to see her more in other books.
This book took me a hot minute to get into it and to understand what was happening, but that was on me for not reading the previous books. I was 15% in and just couldn’t connect with it and almost put it down but I just had a feeling it was going to be something special and I’m so glad I pushed through. Luke and Scarlett own my heart and I’m happy for them to keep it.
Luke, my sweet man. The way I felt such an instant attachment and love to him. He has me willing to ride at dawn for him from the get go. I was FUMING on his behalf so often. The amount of times I was shouting at my kindle calling him a fool though, both him and Scarlett were so blind to each other’s feelings.
And my gorgeous Scarlett, I love her so much. I’m so glad she got her happiness, she deserves the absolute world. Her sunshine is infectious and I’m going to miss her and I hope I get to see her more in other books.
This book took me a hot minute to get into it and to understand what was happening, but that was on me for not reading the previous books. I was 15% in and just couldn’t connect with it and almost put it down but I just had a feeling it was going to be something special and I’m so glad I pushed through. Luke and Scarlett own my heart and I’m happy for them to keep it.
September 17, 2025
I was lucky enough to be accepted to receive an ARC copy of I Want You. After reading the tropes (forced proximity, friends to lovers, workplace romance) I knew I had to read it.
The book had the right amount of mystery and thrill to it to keep me hooked, and the cliffhangers left me wanting more. Isla Stelmark crafted the chapters cleverly, leaving you with the feeling of needing to read the next one immediately.
I liked that the book wasn’t solely focused on the romance between Luke and Scarlett, and there was a good plot line investigating a murder mystery along with other unsolved crimes in the small town. There was a good balance of mystery, thrills, danger and romance to keep you entertained.
I read the majority of the book (90%) in one sitting, having started it a few days before. It was definitely a difficult book to put down. If you’re looking for a fast paced read to get you out of a reading slump, or a murder investigation with a hint of romance, then I Want You is definitely the read for you.
This book has also left me wanting to read more of Isla’s books, and I can’t wait for I Dare You. Fingers crossed for another ARC opportunity 🤞🏻
Easy 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️s
The book had the right amount of mystery and thrill to it to keep me hooked, and the cliffhangers left me wanting more. Isla Stelmark crafted the chapters cleverly, leaving you with the feeling of needing to read the next one immediately.
I liked that the book wasn’t solely focused on the romance between Luke and Scarlett, and there was a good plot line investigating a murder mystery along with other unsolved crimes in the small town. There was a good balance of mystery, thrills, danger and romance to keep you entertained.
I read the majority of the book (90%) in one sitting, having started it a few days before. It was definitely a difficult book to put down. If you’re looking for a fast paced read to get you out of a reading slump, or a murder investigation with a hint of romance, then I Want You is definitely the read for you.
This book has also left me wanting to read more of Isla’s books, and I can’t wait for I Dare You. Fingers crossed for another ARC opportunity 🤞🏻
Easy 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️s
October 24, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive this book as an advanced copy and it did not disappoint! Although it is the third book in the series titled “Wilder Series”, and all these books are interconnected, I did not feel lost at all! I know I am late on my review but this book truly had everything that I loved. I am always a sucker for a series of books that are interconnected bc it helps me explore other series like this and get lost in another town full of romances.
This is the story of Scarlett, a dispatcher at the police department, and is best friends with Luke Wilder, a police officer in the same department in Calla Bay. Scarlett has had a crush on Luke ever since she started working at the department, but never acted on it because he was married. She became his best friend and have always been close to each other. Luke has just put away an accused murder behind bars when he gets a tip from his brother’s best friend, Wes, who is a private investigator that the accused murderer is being set up by someone in the department. Luke can’t believe that someone he works with is corrupted and starts to investigate to prove Wes wrong.
At the same time, Luke is dealing with the fact that his wife has been cheating on him this whole time and has gotten pregnant due to her affair. Luke confides in Scarlett, and although she has feelings for him, she is mature enough to put them aside and be a shoulder for him to cry on. While Luke is figuring out who is corrupt in the department, he ends up divorcing his wife while also fighting off his hidden feelings for Scarlett.
This book’s pace of friends to lovers is perfect! I did love that Scarlett didn’t pursue Luke when he was married and showed that she was respectful towards his relationship. Along the way, these two realize that they care for each other and although they tiptoe between each other, the moment they declare their feelings to each other is chef’s kiss!
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥
This is the story of Scarlett, a dispatcher at the police department, and is best friends with Luke Wilder, a police officer in the same department in Calla Bay. Scarlett has had a crush on Luke ever since she started working at the department, but never acted on it because he was married. She became his best friend and have always been close to each other. Luke has just put away an accused murder behind bars when he gets a tip from his brother’s best friend, Wes, who is a private investigator that the accused murderer is being set up by someone in the department. Luke can’t believe that someone he works with is corrupted and starts to investigate to prove Wes wrong.
At the same time, Luke is dealing with the fact that his wife has been cheating on him this whole time and has gotten pregnant due to her affair. Luke confides in Scarlett, and although she has feelings for him, she is mature enough to put them aside and be a shoulder for him to cry on. While Luke is figuring out who is corrupt in the department, he ends up divorcing his wife while also fighting off his hidden feelings for Scarlett.
This book’s pace of friends to lovers is perfect! I did love that Scarlett didn’t pursue Luke when he was married and showed that she was respectful towards his relationship. Along the way, these two realize that they care for each other and although they tiptoe between each other, the moment they declare their feelings to each other is chef’s kiss!
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥
September 21, 2025
ARC REVIEW: Thank you to Isla Stelmark and Grey’s Promotion for the advanced copy!
⭐ 3.5/5, rounded up to 4 on Goodreads.
I enjoyed this one! That said, I think it would have been beneficial to read the other two books in the series first. At times it felt like I had missed a chunk of the story and had to fill in the blanks myself.
I loved the chemistry between Scarlett and Luke in this friends-to-lovers romance. Scarlett has had a crush on Luke since they met as coworkers four years earlier, but it’s not until Luke’s marriage falls apart that they’re able to act on their feelings. The romance developed quickly, but I think if I’d been introduced to these characters in the previous books, it wouldn’t have felt quite so sudden.
Romance mixed with a side of murder mystery is always a great combination, and this one will definitely keep you hooked. There was a bit too much spice for me personally, but it’s easy enough to skim the open-door scenes without losing track of the story. The chemistry between Scarlett and Luke is evident even without them.
Overall, this book is definitely worth reading, and I’ll be adding the rest of the series to my TBR immediately.
⭐ 3.5/5, rounded up to 4 on Goodreads.
I enjoyed this one! That said, I think it would have been beneficial to read the other two books in the series first. At times it felt like I had missed a chunk of the story and had to fill in the blanks myself.
I loved the chemistry between Scarlett and Luke in this friends-to-lovers romance. Scarlett has had a crush on Luke since they met as coworkers four years earlier, but it’s not until Luke’s marriage falls apart that they’re able to act on their feelings. The romance developed quickly, but I think if I’d been introduced to these characters in the previous books, it wouldn’t have felt quite so sudden.
Romance mixed with a side of murder mystery is always a great combination, and this one will definitely keep you hooked. There was a bit too much spice for me personally, but it’s easy enough to skim the open-door scenes without losing track of the story. The chemistry between Scarlett and Luke is evident even without them.
Overall, this book is definitely worth reading, and I’ll be adding the rest of the series to my TBR immediately.
September 17, 2025
ARC REVIEW: Releases 9/23/2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ok I need more of this asap!! Friends to lovers isn’t my favorite trope but with this much pining…yeah I can get behind that. This was such a fun read and gosh darn it makes me want to move to a cute little coastal town.
I’m just now discovering I really like my MMC in uniform so that’s been fun! Luke is a cop in this little tiny town and he’s being hit on both sides with a scandal in his marriage and inside his police department. His life is being turned upside down but that’s the only way he could clearly see what was right in front of him the whole time. Scarlett has been his bff for the last 4 years and anything more with Luke has only existed in her dreams…until recent events unfold.
I always love a small town, tight knit friend group and this book hit all the marks! There’s murder mystery, betrayal, epic flirting, and a solid slow build to the fireworks! This is the third book in the series but can be read as a standalone. And I loved this one so much I’m probably going to go back for book 1 and 2!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ok I need more of this asap!! Friends to lovers isn’t my favorite trope but with this much pining…yeah I can get behind that. This was such a fun read and gosh darn it makes me want to move to a cute little coastal town.
I’m just now discovering I really like my MMC in uniform so that’s been fun! Luke is a cop in this little tiny town and he’s being hit on both sides with a scandal in his marriage and inside his police department. His life is being turned upside down but that’s the only way he could clearly see what was right in front of him the whole time. Scarlett has been his bff for the last 4 years and anything more with Luke has only existed in her dreams…until recent events unfold.
I always love a small town, tight knit friend group and this book hit all the marks! There’s murder mystery, betrayal, epic flirting, and a solid slow build to the fireworks! This is the third book in the series but can be read as a standalone. And I loved this one so much I’m probably going to go back for book 1 and 2!
September 23, 2025
Hello, people!
This is the third book of the series Wilder. It can be read as a standalone but I think there is a gap in the beginning regarding the secondary characters of the story.
The protagonists are Luke and Scarlett.
Luke's marriage is falling apart. His wife is having an extramarital affair.
Scarlett is in love with him from the first moment. In addition, she is also his colleague.
A friendship develops between them. However, an affair will bring them closer.
The chapters alternate between the thoughts and perspectives of the two main characters, Luke and Scarlett. The story follows the first-person POV.
The author's writing is warm, tender, romantic and captivating. The mystery affair gave another dimension to the story and its setting in the small town genre took it off.
I want to read the previous books in the series and the next ones, if there are any.
Thank you to the author and Grey's Promotions for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
This is the third book of the series Wilder. It can be read as a standalone but I think there is a gap in the beginning regarding the secondary characters of the story.
The protagonists are Luke and Scarlett.
Luke's marriage is falling apart. His wife is having an extramarital affair.
Scarlett is in love with him from the first moment. In addition, she is also his colleague.
A friendship develops between them. However, an affair will bring them closer.
The chapters alternate between the thoughts and perspectives of the two main characters, Luke and Scarlett. The story follows the first-person POV.
The author's writing is warm, tender, romantic and captivating. The mystery affair gave another dimension to the story and its setting in the small town genre took it off.
I want to read the previous books in the series and the next ones, if there are any.
Thank you to the author and Grey's Promotions for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
October 2, 2025
I recently read "I Want You," the third book in Isla Stelmark Wilder series. This was my first experience with her work, and I haven't read the first two books yet, but they've definitely been added to my TBR list.
The story is set in a small town and falls into the romantic suspense genre. The MMC Luke, is a police officer, while the FMC Scarlet, is a dispatcher. They start as friends and eventually become lovers. Luke is in an unhappy marriage, which ends before any romantic entanglements take place, so there is no cheating trope involved for him.
As the plot unfolds, Luke is initially confident in his slam dunk murder case. However, as the case progresses toward trial, he begins to suspect that things may not be as they seem. It becomes apparent that they might have the wrong perpetrator and that there could be corruption within the police department. The book is filled with lots of twists and turns, making it a fantastic romantic suspense read.
The story is set in a small town and falls into the romantic suspense genre. The MMC Luke, is a police officer, while the FMC Scarlet, is a dispatcher. They start as friends and eventually become lovers. Luke is in an unhappy marriage, which ends before any romantic entanglements take place, so there is no cheating trope involved for him.
As the plot unfolds, Luke is initially confident in his slam dunk murder case. However, as the case progresses toward trial, he begins to suspect that things may not be as they seem. It becomes apparent that they might have the wrong perpetrator and that there could be corruption within the police department. The book is filled with lots of twists and turns, making it a fantastic romantic suspense read.
September 15, 2025
4⭐️
Thank you Grey’s Promotions and author Isla Stellmark for sending me the eARC of this book ✨
This was my first book by the author but you can be complete sure I’ll be getting the first two books because I’m hooked with the Wilder brothers 🙂↔️
I enjoyed this book so much! The suspense, the slow burn and the tension between Letty and Luke was delivering 🙂↔️😮💨 and I also enjoyed the fast pace of the story, and I think it was so well written and balanced between the romance and the suspense plot with the murderer case in the town.
I loved Letty, she’s sweet and kind and a total badass 🙂↔️ and I love Luke, how he’s were always looking after her and being there for her even when they were just friends and then when their relationship was evolving in the beautiful couple they become ❤️
I can’t wait to read more about the Wilder’s ✨
Thank you Grey’s Promotions and author Isla Stellmark for sending me the eARC of this book ✨
This was my first book by the author but you can be complete sure I’ll be getting the first two books because I’m hooked with the Wilder brothers 🙂↔️
I enjoyed this book so much! The suspense, the slow burn and the tension between Letty and Luke was delivering 🙂↔️😮💨 and I also enjoyed the fast pace of the story, and I think it was so well written and balanced between the romance and the suspense plot with the murderer case in the town.
I loved Letty, she’s sweet and kind and a total badass 🙂↔️ and I love Luke, how he’s were always looking after her and being there for her even when they were just friends and then when their relationship was evolving in the beautiful couple they become ❤️
I can’t wait to read more about the Wilder’s ✨
September 20, 2025
Really fun, small town vibes with a little bit of suspense thrown in! This is my first book by this author and as of now I can currently say I want to go back and read the series from the beginning. This is a friend to lovers story between a cop and a 911 dispatcher, there’s also a great sense of found family, friend group in life/home/work balance.
One thing I really enjoy is the organic leap between skipping a few weeks and yet still showing the little day by day things in their lives! This story overall turned out to be a fun, quick romance with a little suspense thrown in and a definite read, especially if you’re poolside, or lakeside in a more casual setting. This is such a fun good read! I would definitely recommend.
#ContemporaryRomance #RomanticSuspense #FriendstoLovers #ProtectiveHero #SmallTownRomance #SurprisePregnancy
This was a ARC copy that I received from @greyspromo
One thing I really enjoy is the organic leap between skipping a few weeks and yet still showing the little day by day things in their lives! This story overall turned out to be a fun, quick romance with a little suspense thrown in and a definite read, especially if you’re poolside, or lakeside in a more casual setting. This is such a fun good read! I would definitely recommend.
#ContemporaryRomance #RomanticSuspense #FriendstoLovers #ProtectiveHero #SmallTownRomance #SurprisePregnancy
This was a ARC copy that I received from @greyspromo
September 23, 2025
I want you
This story is part of a series but works perfectly well as a standalone. It follows Luke and Scarlett, two members of the Calla Bay police force. Though long-time friends, a series of events begins to shift their relationship into something more, blurring the lines between friendship and something deeper.
At the same time, the pair are working a case that isn’t quite what it seems, adding a layer of mystery and suspense to the story. While I enjoyed the romance between Luke and Scarlett, at times it felt like their relationship took center stage and overshadowed the main case.
That said, the book has a strong storyline and engaging characters that kept me turning the pages. I really enjoyed my visit to Calla Bay and look forward to returning for the next installment in the series.
This story is part of a series but works perfectly well as a standalone. It follows Luke and Scarlett, two members of the Calla Bay police force. Though long-time friends, a series of events begins to shift their relationship into something more, blurring the lines between friendship and something deeper.
At the same time, the pair are working a case that isn’t quite what it seems, adding a layer of mystery and suspense to the story. While I enjoyed the romance between Luke and Scarlett, at times it felt like their relationship took center stage and overshadowed the main case.
That said, the book has a strong storyline and engaging characters that kept me turning the pages. I really enjoyed my visit to Calla Bay and look forward to returning for the next installment in the series.
September 25, 2025
I have not read the first two books in this series and don't believe it hindered my reading this one.
Luke and Scarlett are the couple that believe they could only be friends. Luke is married. The work at the police station. Luke is an officer. Scarlett is a dispatcher.
You know their feelings for each other are strong, it comes off the page, but he is married.
This book combines a romance and a mystery, one of my favorite genres.
There is a lot of drama in the book but only minimal between the two main characters. You won't love Luke's wife or partner very much, but one does redeem themselves.
The romance is sweet and very sexy. These two waited a long time to admit and act on their feelings.
The mystery was a little easier to figure out, though I admit I only had one piece early on.
I enjoyed this book so much I will go back and read the first two.
Luke and Scarlett are the couple that believe they could only be friends. Luke is married. The work at the police station. Luke is an officer. Scarlett is a dispatcher.
You know their feelings for each other are strong, it comes off the page, but he is married.
This book combines a romance and a mystery, one of my favorite genres.
There is a lot of drama in the book but only minimal between the two main characters. You won't love Luke's wife or partner very much, but one does redeem themselves.
The romance is sweet and very sexy. These two waited a long time to admit and act on their feelings.
The mystery was a little easier to figure out, though I admit I only had one piece early on.
I enjoyed this book so much I will go back and read the first two.
September 25, 2025
ARC REVIEW** This one just came out on Sept 23, available on kindle unlimited and solid 4 stars for me. (I did not realize this was the 3rd book in the series. It was fine reading by itself, but i do wish I would have read the other 2 first)...
This one is small town, romantic suspense - which is quickly becoming one of my fav genres.
Luke is a police officer and he's just getting done with a really big murder case in their small town. He's so glad they got the guy and he's now behind bars. But some new evidence comes to light and they start questioning whether they got the right guy. And then there's Scarlett - she is Luke's best friend & also co-worker in the police station. They're thinking she might be in danger just because she is associated with Luke and he will do whatever he can to protect her.
This one is small town, romantic suspense - which is quickly becoming one of my fav genres.
Luke is a police officer and he's just getting done with a really big murder case in their small town. He's so glad they got the guy and he's now behind bars. But some new evidence comes to light and they start questioning whether they got the right guy. And then there's Scarlett - she is Luke's best friend & also co-worker in the police station. They're thinking she might be in danger just because she is associated with Luke and he will do whatever he can to protect her.
September 27, 2025
Really enjoyed Luke and Scarlett’s story. I’ve read the Wilder series and this is book three.
Luke Wilder is protective, loyal, and quietly intense. He’s a small-town cop dealing with a messy personal life and a suspicious case that doesn’t sit right with him. Scarlett, his best friend and dispatcher, is smart, strong, and has been by his side for years. Their friendship is deep, and watching it slowly shift into something more was so satisfying.
The romantic suspense element was my favourite. I was hooked by the mystery and genuinely surprised by some of the twists.
Scarlett’s inner thoughts made me laugh and Luke’s emotional journey after his divorce was handled with care. There’s no drama for drama’s sake just two people figuring out life and love in the middle of chaos.
Isla Stelmark’s writing is heartfelt and immersive.
Luke Wilder is protective, loyal, and quietly intense. He’s a small-town cop dealing with a messy personal life and a suspicious case that doesn’t sit right with him. Scarlett, his best friend and dispatcher, is smart, strong, and has been by his side for years. Their friendship is deep, and watching it slowly shift into something more was so satisfying.
The romantic suspense element was my favourite. I was hooked by the mystery and genuinely surprised by some of the twists.
Scarlett’s inner thoughts made me laugh and Luke’s emotional journey after his divorce was handled with care. There’s no drama for drama’s sake just two people figuring out life and love in the middle of chaos.
Isla Stelmark’s writing is heartfelt and immersive.
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