Wilde Thing

by Tess Oliver

I wasn’t looking for a hero.

Between two jobs, an aging mother and my little boy, survival is my full-time job.

After too many bad choices, I swore off men for good.

Then Ronan Wilde walked into my diner.
Gorgeous. Intimidating. Fiercely protective.

When a man crossed the line, Ronan stepped in without hesitation.
He made me feel safe in a way I hadn’t in years.
And that scared me.

A man with his devastating green eyes and cocky smile is the last thing I need in my complicated life.

Except Ronan doesn’t walk away.
When things fall apart, he shows up.

And then I see him with my son... and everything changes.

He’s gentle with Jack, patient and kind in a way that makes my heart ache.

Ronan isn’t just protecting me anymore.
He’s protecting my world.

I told myself I didn’t need saving.

But Ronan makes me feel safe.
And loving a man like him might be the biggest risk I’ve ever taken...

More in the
1. Drive Me Wilde
2. Walk on the Wilde Side
3. Wilde Thing

213 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 16, 2026

About the author

Tess Oliver is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Custom Culture series and a large collection of other romances. She is well known for her relatable characters who "become your friends" as you journey with them and for intriguing stories that will have you "devouring her books in just one day". Tess has been featured on USA Today's 'Happy Ever After' site, and in publications including Glamour UK and Elle UK magazines.

Reviews

[Cody Smith-Candelaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the Wilde Brothers series and while they can be read as stand-alones, I would highly recommend starting from the first book as it helps you get to really know each of the brothers but also their dynamic. This one follows Ronin and picks up when he is hitting the bottom, just everything that can go wrong has and it's starting to pile up on him. He doesn't give up though, keeps pushing forward and trying to do better and make a better go of things. It's on that path that he meets Rachel, who is also trying to piece her life together, not just for her but for her son and her mom. So, will they both carve a path and will they be able to carve a path together, only time will tell. I adore the family dynamics that we get in this series and how each character from past books adds to the next story. I will admit that for much of this book I wanted to smack the crap out of each or sometimes both of our leads but that's just me. LOL It's a great story with twists and turns, unusual circumstances and some real life, everyday kind of drama. Loved the whole journey and can't wait for the next one.

[Anima · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oliver writes great bad boy romances, the rough kid with bedroom eyes always down on his luck. Ronan does not disappoint, one of 5 boys raised by a dad who wasn’t really around and many wives in his past. He’s working, couch surfing with his brothers and recovering from some injuries. He’s a sweetheart, great with kids and seems a little lost. Rachel, single mom working two jobs and receiving more financial blows than I thought possible, is intelligent enough to know when something is too good to be true it probably is. She’s been on a tough road but always keeps it positive and doesn’t let it keep her down. Many ups and downs in their lives, some tough situations, but the heart wants what it wants. Despite the fact they struggle to make ends meet Ray and Ronan have great chemistry and easy conversation. It’s been awhile since I’ve read an Oliver book and I was excited to receive an early copy, I’ve written this review voluntarily.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic Tess Oliver read! Everyone needs a hero like Ronan in their lives. Poor Rachel couldn’t see her way out of the almost poverty-stricken life she led. Two jobs to barely make ends meet while supporting her mom and three year old son. Along came Ronan, who wasn’t any better off financially than she was. Add in a tempting offer from a rich admirer and you have a very real dilemma! I loved feeling all of the various emotions at play in this book and once again highly recommend it. You won’t regret it!

I received this book from the author via BookFunnel and am happy to leave my honest review.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this story down. I sped right through it. It was good to be back in the world of the Wilde Brothers. The writing made it easy to pick back up where we had left off. The story was real and so believable. Not everyone has a nice bank account where life is all roses. I love the chemistry between Ro and Ray and I admit to nearly yelling out loud, "don't do it" one time. A bunch of fun characters. A handful that wasn't so great. A character that stood out to me was Doris. I appreciated her fairness.
I'm ready for the next Wilde brother's story! Let's see what kind of mischief he can get into. A fun series.

[Melonie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Tess Oliver writes a book magic happens. Time stands still and nothing matters except reading the book!!!!! The Wilde brothers series is such a treat. The characters stay with you long after you turn the last page!!!!

[Mick C · Rating 4 out of 5]

When two down on their luck people meet and they know this relationship is something special. Only to have money troubles come between them. Will love win out? Read this one to find out.