What do you think?
Rate this book
Wilder #3
Wilder Play
The addicting, edge-of-your seat Wilder series continues with the third installment filled with sports, romance, and characters you'll obsess about. Continue your fast-paced binge read and enjoy the ride along this twisty, unpredictable plot.
I’m back on the tennis court, but the rest of my life is a hot mess. My mom stopped paying my bills, and I just discovered the reason for it: she’s dead. I’m about to get kicked out of my apartment – the same one that’s been broken into twice – if I don’t pay rent soon. My sister is still lurking about, up to no good. And someone is leaving messages telling me to break up with Jude.
He’s back from football camp and didn’t forget about me while he was gone. Jude’s seen the reality of my life, and he isn’t running away. Instead, he’s demanding I open up to him more, even though I’ve already made myself more vulnerable with him than with anyone else in my life. I keep telling myself it’s for his own good to keep secrets from him, but I’m starting to wonder if it’s more about protecting my heart than it is about proving my independence.
We’ve fallen hard and fast, and it’s up to me what happens next.
The man who’s come to deliver the news about my mom is about to tell me who my father is, and I have a feeling my world is going to get turned upside down. Should I take Jude’s hand and bring him along for the ride? And if I do, will having Jude beside me make me weaker, or stronger?
I’m back on the tennis court, but the rest of my life is a hot mess. My mom stopped paying my bills, and I just discovered the reason for it: she’s dead. I’m about to get kicked out of my apartment – the same one that’s been broken into twice – if I don’t pay rent soon. My sister is still lurking about, up to no good. And someone is leaving messages telling me to break up with Jude.
He’s back from football camp and didn’t forget about me while he was gone. Jude’s seen the reality of my life, and he isn’t running away. Instead, he’s demanding I open up to him more, even though I’ve already made myself more vulnerable with him than with anyone else in my life. I keep telling myself it’s for his own good to keep secrets from him, but I’m starting to wonder if it’s more about protecting my heart than it is about proving my independence.
We’ve fallen hard and fast, and it’s up to me what happens next.
The man who’s come to deliver the news about my mom is about to tell me who my father is, and I have a feeling my world is going to get turned upside down. Should I take Jude’s hand and bring him along for the ride? And if I do, will having Jude beside me make me weaker, or stronger?
Unknown Binding
Published March 1, 2022
47 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Ali Dean
47 books1,023 followersAli is a USA Today Bestselling author of sports romance. She has always loved to read, especially when there's a happily ever after, but found that there weren't enough books out there featuring girl athletes. So, she decided to work on that. Like the heroines in her books, Ali is an athlete, with running and skiing her favorite sports these days. Ali hails from Vermont and now lives in her own happily-ever-after in Colorado with her husband, two sets of twins, and golden retriever Pancake. When she's not pursuing an outdoor adventure, Ali's less healthy passions include ice cream, coffee, and beer.
Get to know Ali Dean by following her on any of her social media and author links below.
www.alideanfiction.com
www.facebook.com/alideanfiction
www.twitter.com/alideanfiction
www.instagram.com/alideanfiction
www.bookbub.com/profile/ali-dean
www.pinterest.com/alidean750
Sign up for Ali's newsletter and receive free short stories as a welcome gift! https://www.subscribepage.com/alidean...
Get to know Ali Dean by following her on any of her social media and author links below.
www.alideanfiction.com
www.facebook.com/alideanfiction
www.twitter.com/alideanfiction
www.instagram.com/alideanfiction
www.bookbub.com/profile/ali-dean
www.pinterest.com/alidean750
Sign up for Ali's newsletter and receive free short stories as a welcome gift! https://www.subscribepage.com/alidean...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
March 10, 2022
I’m very sad to write this review of Wilder Play. Not because there’s anything wrong with the book. In fact it’s just the opposite. A near perfect story, and a wonderful conclusion to Karis and Jude’s romance that’s ties off all the story lines (yes, including who Karis’ dad is and why he wasn’t around for her) perfectly. Suspense, romance, perfectly presented sports that gets into the heart of the athlete’s perspective, oh yes indeed, this is the ideal sports romance. My only complaint is that it ends, even if it ends oh so well. Oh yes, there’s always something else to complain about. Here it’s that I’d like to have had the sort of years later epilogue Ali Dean provided in her Pepper Jones tales. Luckily the author says she’s going to provide an extended epilogue, Wilder Ace, doing just that. Of course I’ll still have my “but it’s ended” complaint after that, but all things considered, crying over perfect endings to wonderfully written tales isn’t all that bad, so I suppose I will have to highly recommend this (really actually quite fantastic) novel after all.
March 6, 2022
Another crisply written, fast-paced book from this author was just the ticket for the kind of reading I wanted this week. I was eager to see what happened with Karis after the ending of book two and I was really into her and Jude's story and all of the obstacles they had to face in this book. Some series long threads were tied up by the end and though some seemed a little quickly done compared to the pacing of the rest of the series I was still satisfied. It ends kind of abruptly but the author did send a newsletter saying that a free extended epilogue would be coming soon so I am looking forward to that for a little better of a bow on the end of their story. I would also to love to read stories around some of the other characters if the author feels led to write them.
May 2, 2022
3.75 stars—WILDER PLAY is the third instalment in Ali Dean’s’ contemporary, young adult WILDER romance series focusing on high school seniors Jude Wilder, and Karis Jackson. WILDER PLAY should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events of book two WILDER MATCH.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Jude and Karis) WILDER PLAY follows in the aftermath of the death of Karis’s mother, a woman who has not been a part of Karis’ life for a very long time but with the announcement, Karis’s half-sister Renee is determined to gain guardianship of our story line heroine, a guardianship that will leave Renee in control of our heroine’s life. Meanwhile, a new designer drug has hit the streets of Brockton, Colorado, and Karis believes she knows who is responsible for the supply and delivery but when threats against Karis become personal, Jude moves Karis into his family home, a move they hope would protect Karis from the threats that keep coming. As Karis and Jude’s relationship turns into something more, the jealous mean girls begin a campaign to push Karis out of Jude’s life, a campaign that now involves rumour, innuendo, deception and drugs.
The relationship between Karis and Jude has crossed the proverbial line into love but someone is targeting our story line couple, and Jude is determined to protect our heroine, even if it means, walking away from the woman he loves. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and questionable secondary and supporting characters , and as per most young adult story lines, the requisite mean girls, numerous suitors, jealousy, and controversial adults play a significant role behind the scenes.
WILDER PLAY continues to focus on betrayal and vengeance, greed and obsession, jealousy and love. The premise is intriguing and engaging but the conflict resolution needed more detail; the romance is captivating; the characters are energetic, engaging and charismatic.
ww.thereadingcafe.com
Told from dual first person perspectives (Jude and Karis) WILDER PLAY follows in the aftermath of the death of Karis’s mother, a woman who has not been a part of Karis’ life for a very long time but with the announcement, Karis’s half-sister Renee is determined to gain guardianship of our story line heroine, a guardianship that will leave Renee in control of our heroine’s life. Meanwhile, a new designer drug has hit the streets of Brockton, Colorado, and Karis believes she knows who is responsible for the supply and delivery but when threats against Karis become personal, Jude moves Karis into his family home, a move they hope would protect Karis from the threats that keep coming. As Karis and Jude’s relationship turns into something more, the jealous mean girls begin a campaign to push Karis out of Jude’s life, a campaign that now involves rumour, innuendo, deception and drugs.
The relationship between Karis and Jude has crossed the proverbial line into love but someone is targeting our story line couple, and Jude is determined to protect our heroine, even if it means, walking away from the woman he loves. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and questionable secondary and supporting characters , and as per most young adult story lines, the requisite mean girls, numerous suitors, jealousy, and controversial adults play a significant role behind the scenes.
WILDER PLAY continues to focus on betrayal and vengeance, greed and obsession, jealousy and love. The premise is intriguing and engaging but the conflict resolution needed more detail; the romance is captivating; the characters are energetic, engaging and charismatic.
ww.thereadingcafe.com
May 11, 2022
Amazon
When secrets come out, they do so in a crazy way for Karis and Jude! Karis finally gets a lot of resolution in their conclusion, and they finally found the happiness they so deserved. I've loved this series - loved reading as Karis worked toward her dream, Jude matured and became even more protective, and they fell in love and stayed in love. Really the only thing that could have been better is if there were a further look into their future, but thank God one is coming.
ARC provided by The Indie Pen PR for an honest review.
Review / Review Tour: Live Through Books Blog.
Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Bookbub
March 15, 2022
This book is an amazing conclusion to a great story. Karis and Jude are awesome in this book. I enjoyed their character growth and how they fight to be with each other against all the odds.
I always admired how each character dedicated themselves to their own respective sports. Their goals and hard work made them awesome together. And, Jude is so swoony. He is just so sweet. As a person, he is a bit on the Type-A, but extremely sweet. He cares so deeply and it is wonderful. Karis, also, is awesome. The crap she goes through is crazy. But she grows so much.
The romance in this book is amazing. I really enjoyed the kissing scenes. There were plenty and I loved it when the steam was on. Also, I enjoyed the suspense and mystery thrown in. Who exactly is Karis? Who is her family? Read to find out.
Additionally, the secondary characters are just so freaking sweet. I enjoyed seeing Jace and Pepper together and happily from the previous series. Jude's family is adorable to the power of infinity. I can't wait for the extended epilogue. Fans of suspensful, sweet, and awesome YA will love this book.
I always admired how each character dedicated themselves to their own respective sports. Their goals and hard work made them awesome together. And, Jude is so swoony. He is just so sweet. As a person, he is a bit on the Type-A, but extremely sweet. He cares so deeply and it is wonderful. Karis, also, is awesome. The crap she goes through is crazy. But she grows so much.
The romance in this book is amazing. I really enjoyed the kissing scenes. There were plenty and I loved it when the steam was on. Also, I enjoyed the suspense and mystery thrown in. Who exactly is Karis? Who is her family? Read to find out.
Additionally, the secondary characters are just so freaking sweet. I enjoyed seeing Jace and Pepper together and happily from the previous series. Jude's family is adorable to the power of infinity. I can't wait for the extended epilogue. Fans of suspensful, sweet, and awesome YA will love this book.
March 9, 2022
I absolutely loved this story! I loved getting to pick up right where we left off with these two. This is the 3rd and final book in the series (just an extended epilogue/novella next) and I highly recommend reading the previous two books to fully understand what is going on in the story and the relationship between Jude and Karis. They are all very closely related and pick up where the last one leaves off. With that said, this was a great story! We finally get to see what happened to Karis's mom and find out information about her father. We get to see Jude and Karis overcome even more obstacles and knock down those walls and barriers that stood between them being on the same page and fully committed. I loved watching team they formed and Karis coming out of her shell with more than just Jude. This was a great story and I loved the bits that we got to know about the rest of the Wilder family and friends and I really really really hope that we get more of the Wilder children's stories as I have already fallen in love with quite a few of them lol. I loved getting to come back to this world that we were introduced to in the Pepper Jones series and I really hope that we get more stories to come! This story had everything needed, action, intrigue, and heart as we watched these two come together and build something great.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 17, 2022
WOW I NEVER EXPECTED THIS SERIES WOULD BE SO INTENSE. gosh I'm sweating right here. This is real and it's raw. The chemistry, the push and pull, and protectiveness they both have over each other is top tier.
I've loved this series - loved reading as Karis worked toward her dream, Jude matured and became even more protective, and they fell in love and stayed in love.
I'm so proud of Karis. She knows how protective Jude would be for his loving one. So she decide to include him in her secret. She knows family is important n Jude's 1st PRIORITY. I love this girl!!!!!
The plot twist? The climaxs? The plot? ALL PERFECT N AMAZING.
The scene when Jude and Granny B being undercover totally hv my heart!! It so hilarious. I swear Granny B make this series more colourful. n now I'm sad cus i cant find the final books of this series anywhere😭😭
I've loved this series - loved reading as Karis worked toward her dream, Jude matured and became even more protective, and they fell in love and stayed in love.
I'm so proud of Karis. She knows how protective Jude would be for his loving one. So she decide to include him in her secret. She knows family is important n Jude's 1st PRIORITY. I love this girl!!!!!
The plot twist? The climaxs? The plot? ALL PERFECT N AMAZING.
The scene when Jude and Granny B being undercover totally hv my heart!! It so hilarious. I swear Granny B make this series more colourful. n now I'm sad cus i cant find the final books of this series anywhere😭😭
March 9, 2022
Wilder Play is the perfect conclusion to Jace and Karis' story! I loved the plot twists and bit of intrigue. And the way Karis evolves from book 1 to 3 makes for a very interesting storyline. If you love Sports Romance, New Adult, strong, smart heroines, sweet alphas, or entertaining reads that keep you turning pages, you need to one-click this whole Series! 5 Stars!
April 16, 2022
I have never read Ali Dean’s books before but this book sounded interesting, but it was the third book in the series, so I went ahead and got the first book to try out. I really got into it and got the second book and then read this ARC.
I really really enjoyed this book (as well as the first two). This is the third book in the story of Jude and Karis. For those that read the Pepper series, Jude is Pepper and Jace’s son. Jude is the popular boy at school and Karis is the girl from the wrong side of the tracks. Her mom and older sister are both con artists and blackmailers and most people in town hate them. Karis feels the brunt of this and is dying to get out of town and go to college where she can start over. She is an amazing tennis player and that is her ticket out. She lands on Jude radar when his little sister becomes Karis’s fan. The first two books are about how they fall for each other, the development of their relationship and the complications that ensue. This book takes off where the second left off. Karis finally opens up to Jude and lets him in and he in turn communicates more with her and more complications ensue.
This was an amazingly well written book. Ali Dean does a phenomenal job of sucking you into the story, getting you invested in and liking (or hating) the characters. The plot was somewhat unbelievable, but the beauty of Ali Dean’s writing is that I didn’t care. I also figured out who the obsessed person was, and I was correct but again I didn’t care. The ride was that enjoyable. And despite the book being about teenagers, the writing was mature, characters fleshed out and I didn’t cringe on reading it. I am looking forward to reading the 4th book in the series and Peppers story. I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really really enjoyed this book (as well as the first two). This is the third book in the story of Jude and Karis. For those that read the Pepper series, Jude is Pepper and Jace’s son. Jude is the popular boy at school and Karis is the girl from the wrong side of the tracks. Her mom and older sister are both con artists and blackmailers and most people in town hate them. Karis feels the brunt of this and is dying to get out of town and go to college where she can start over. She is an amazing tennis player and that is her ticket out. She lands on Jude radar when his little sister becomes Karis’s fan. The first two books are about how they fall for each other, the development of their relationship and the complications that ensue. This book takes off where the second left off. Karis finally opens up to Jude and lets him in and he in turn communicates more with her and more complications ensue.
This was an amazingly well written book. Ali Dean does a phenomenal job of sucking you into the story, getting you invested in and liking (or hating) the characters. The plot was somewhat unbelievable, but the beauty of Ali Dean’s writing is that I didn’t care. I also figured out who the obsessed person was, and I was correct but again I didn’t care. The ride was that enjoyable. And despite the book being about teenagers, the writing was mature, characters fleshed out and I didn’t cringe on reading it. I am looking forward to reading the 4th book in the series and Peppers story. I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 7, 2022
I was lucky to get an ARC of this book. I was so excited to finally find out what happened with Karis' family. What happened to her mom? Who was her father? And why hadn't he reached out until now. Then there was her suspicious sister Renee' and her boyfriend Battle. I had so many questions at the end of "Wilder Match." This book answered all my questions and more. Ali had me trying to guess what was going to happen next, but I wasn't ready for what did.
Karis finally opens up to Jude and starts realizing she doesn't have to keep herself closed off from everyone. She is beginning to put her trust in others and reveal some of her struggles over the years. Jude and Karis give me all the feels in their love story. I love how protective Jude has always been with his family, but Karis becomes a part of that.
Karis and Jude feel in their gut that Renee' and Battle have something to do with Shirley being distributed in their town and surrounding areas. They decide to take matters into their own hands to get to the bottom of the situation. Both Karis and Jude are fighting for their love and their freedom from Renee'. There are twists and unexpected turns. Will Karis and Jude's love endure and overcome?
Even though this was the last book in the Jude Wilder series, I feel Ali did a great job wrapping up the loose ends. I am excited for the extended epilogue coming in May to find out more about what Jude and Karis will be up to, along with the other family and friends.
Karis finally opens up to Jude and starts realizing she doesn't have to keep herself closed off from everyone. She is beginning to put her trust in others and reveal some of her struggles over the years. Jude and Karis give me all the feels in their love story. I love how protective Jude has always been with his family, but Karis becomes a part of that.
Karis and Jude feel in their gut that Renee' and Battle have something to do with Shirley being distributed in their town and surrounding areas. They decide to take matters into their own hands to get to the bottom of the situation. Both Karis and Jude are fighting for their love and their freedom from Renee'. There are twists and unexpected turns. Will Karis and Jude's love endure and overcome?
Even though this was the last book in the Jude Wilder series, I feel Ali did a great job wrapping up the loose ends. I am excited for the extended epilogue coming in May to find out more about what Jude and Karis will be up to, along with the other family and friends.
March 9, 2022
I’ve said this before & I’ll say it again. Everyone needs a Granny B in their life. Fearless, funny, down for adventure, gossip mill, & super loyal. She is literally one of my favorite characters pretty much ever.
I have loved this series from the word go but I’ll be honest, I did feel like it was a little rushed towards the end. Don’t hate me Ali. You know I am a HUGE fan but you asked for a honest review. The person writing notes & taking underwear was a GIANT surprise to me but I feel like there wasn’t much of a why. I also would have like to have known the plans for Karis after the apartment deal, does Karis go to college, how her trust deal goes, & more info on Renee & what happens to her. But honestly I did love this series & thought it was a great book. I love how in love & infatuated Jude is with Karis. He was a boy on top of the world before Karis but missing something & he didn’t even know it. I love that he realizes how much he’s changed for the better because of love. They both accepted each other for how they were & didn’t try to change one another but to be there for one another.
I will literally read anything Ali reads because she’s on of my favorites. Even though this one didn’t give me all the answers it’s still one I would definitely reread
CW: sex scene, talk of taking/doing drugs & drinking.
I have loved this series from the word go but I’ll be honest, I did feel like it was a little rushed towards the end. Don’t hate me Ali. You know I am a HUGE fan but you asked for a honest review. The person writing notes & taking underwear was a GIANT surprise to me but I feel like there wasn’t much of a why. I also would have like to have known the plans for Karis after the apartment deal, does Karis go to college, how her trust deal goes, & more info on Renee & what happens to her. But honestly I did love this series & thought it was a great book. I love how in love & infatuated Jude is with Karis. He was a boy on top of the world before Karis but missing something & he didn’t even know it. I love that he realizes how much he’s changed for the better because of love. They both accepted each other for how they were & didn’t try to change one another but to be there for one another.
I will literally read anything Ali reads because she’s on of my favorites. Even though this one didn’t give me all the answers it’s still one I would definitely reread
CW: sex scene, talk of taking/doing drugs & drinking.
March 4, 2022
It is crucial to read Wilder #1 & #2 before reading this PG, teen, romantic suspense novel
This is book 3 in what will be a 4-book, romantic-suspense series, similar to the author’s Defiance Falls series. It is not a standalone novel. Though book 1 and book 2 in this series both end in a cliffhanger, this book does not. In fact, I am intrigued to find out what the author has planned for book 4, because it seems as if every plot thread of these three books, including a rosy, HFN commitment for the two lovers, has been resolved.
This story picks up immediately after the events at the end of book 2, at the start of the school year. Karis Jackson and Jace Wilder are seniors at the local public high school in the fictional, medium-sized town of Brockton, Colorado. This is the same town which features prominently in the author’s Pepper Jones series. Pepper and her husband Jace Wilder are the parents of 18-year-old Jude. Soon after the story begins, we learn that 17-year-old Karis’s mother is dead, and we also learn who her father is.
In this book, in keeping with the main brand of the author, who is best known for her YA sports romances, there is a bit more time spent on sports, which were barely a blip in the other two books. There are several scenes of Karis at competitions as an elite tennis player, and there is one scene of Jude at a high school football game, where he has followed in his father’s footsteps as an elite quarterback.
This story continues to offer plenty of scenes with Jude’s delightful siblings and cousins, and a few cameos by Pepper and Jace, all of which is a highlight of this series.
In terms of the suspense portion of this series, the stakes are substantially raised in this novel. Karis’s life is in great danger multiple times, though the violence is never graphic. There are several sex scenes in this novel, as well, but they are much less descriptive than in the previous two books. This time around there is no on-stage, extended scene of a teenage booze, drugs and sex blow-out in the woods. All of which makes this particular novel more in the range of PG-13 than R.
I rate this book as follows:
Heroine: 4 stars
Hero: 4 stars
Romance Plot: 4 stars
Suspense Plot: 4 stars
Sports Plot: 4 stars
Jones-Wilder Extended Family: 5 stars
Writing: 4 stars
Overall: 4 stars
NOTE: I received an ARC of this novel through Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book 3 in what will be a 4-book, romantic-suspense series, similar to the author’s Defiance Falls series. It is not a standalone novel. Though book 1 and book 2 in this series both end in a cliffhanger, this book does not. In fact, I am intrigued to find out what the author has planned for book 4, because it seems as if every plot thread of these three books, including a rosy, HFN commitment for the two lovers, has been resolved.
This story picks up immediately after the events at the end of book 2, at the start of the school year. Karis Jackson and Jace Wilder are seniors at the local public high school in the fictional, medium-sized town of Brockton, Colorado. This is the same town which features prominently in the author’s Pepper Jones series. Pepper and her husband Jace Wilder are the parents of 18-year-old Jude. Soon after the story begins, we learn that 17-year-old Karis’s mother is dead, and we also learn who her father is.
In this book, in keeping with the main brand of the author, who is best known for her YA sports romances, there is a bit more time spent on sports, which were barely a blip in the other two books. There are several scenes of Karis at competitions as an elite tennis player, and there is one scene of Jude at a high school football game, where he has followed in his father’s footsteps as an elite quarterback.
This story continues to offer plenty of scenes with Jude’s delightful siblings and cousins, and a few cameos by Pepper and Jace, all of which is a highlight of this series.
In terms of the suspense portion of this series, the stakes are substantially raised in this novel. Karis’s life is in great danger multiple times, though the violence is never graphic. There are several sex scenes in this novel, as well, but they are much less descriptive than in the previous two books. This time around there is no on-stage, extended scene of a teenage booze, drugs and sex blow-out in the woods. All of which makes this particular novel more in the range of PG-13 than R.
I rate this book as follows:
Heroine: 4 stars
Hero: 4 stars
Romance Plot: 4 stars
Suspense Plot: 4 stars
Sports Plot: 4 stars
Jones-Wilder Extended Family: 5 stars
Writing: 4 stars
Overall: 4 stars
NOTE: I received an ARC of this novel through Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2022
This is book 3 in the Wilder Trilogy and a sports romance between Karis and Jude. Karis injury has finally healed and she can now play tennis again. Jude is back from camp and all he can think about is protecting Karis. Karis has just found out her mom is dead and suspects her sister is behind it. Karis and Jude are getting their vehicles vandalized telling them to break up. Along side their friends they try to figure out who wants them apart and try to find proof of Renee's involvement in the new drugs going around town.
My rating:☕️☕️☕️☕️(4/5)
Such a fast paced read. Karis is most definitely a badass. Made me so happy to see her include Jude in everything. And that they weren't hiding anything from their friends and family. Karis has gained so many valuable relationships within Jude's family but also in her other friends. I loved how so many things were answered in this book including why Karis' dad wasn't in the picture.
🚨🚨Spoilers below read at your own risk🚨🚨
I didn't see the stalker coming! I figured that would have been done by someone we had prove had wanted to get with either Jude or Karis. I needed more information on how Vanna and Kwabena started dating! I would have loved to see this two sets of couple interact more as official couples instead of just hiding from the others since Karis and Jude had faked breaking up. I love Kofi; he made sure Karis always felt welcomed and even stood up for her with her family and with Battle. I had a feeling of dread towards of chapter 25. When Karis drove herself to school by herself it sounded like a set up. I could sense something was going to happen so when she was told about the bomb it wasn't a surprise. What shocked me was that her stalker literally took advantage of that situation and kidnapped her! The last 3 chapters flew by. I would have wanted to go on a bit longer because while they did prove to Nash they were back together it felt like this whole book they spent it pretending not to be.
My rating:☕️☕️☕️☕️(4/5)
Such a fast paced read. Karis is most definitely a badass. Made me so happy to see her include Jude in everything. And that they weren't hiding anything from their friends and family. Karis has gained so many valuable relationships within Jude's family but also in her other friends. I loved how so many things were answered in this book including why Karis' dad wasn't in the picture.
🚨🚨Spoilers below read at your own risk🚨🚨
I didn't see the stalker coming! I figured that would have been done by someone we had prove had wanted to get with either Jude or Karis. I needed more information on how Vanna and Kwabena started dating! I would have loved to see this two sets of couple interact more as official couples instead of just hiding from the others since Karis and Jude had faked breaking up. I love Kofi; he made sure Karis always felt welcomed and even stood up for her with her family and with Battle. I had a feeling of dread towards of chapter 25. When Karis drove herself to school by herself it sounded like a set up. I could sense something was going to happen so when she was told about the bomb it wasn't a surprise. What shocked me was that her stalker literally took advantage of that situation and kidnapped her! The last 3 chapters flew by. I would have wanted to go on a bit longer because while they did prove to Nash they were back together it felt like this whole book they spent it pretending not to be.
May 4, 2022
I’m giving this honest review for an Advanced Review Copy of this novel. Never did I believe that I’d read a trifecta within 48 hours, however I was hooked. You ever leave a story a days later you are still caught up in the storyline. Well, Wilder Play answered some questions an left us hanging with others. Soon to be 18 Karis Jackson had her goals set to receive a Tennis scholarship an live her life under the radar of her dysfunctional family. Karis who was living in a tenement that she had been robbed twice. Rent was behind two months anther telephone just got cut off. The beneficiaries to her trust fund showed up unannounced an let her know her estranged Mother was deceased. And the acknowledgment of who her deceased Father was on her Birth Certificate. Unfortunately her half-Sister Renee knew as well an was willing to go to the far ends of the Earth to get her hands on this trust as well. Fortunately she fell in love with Jude Wilder an the love of a family she never had. After being robbed mainly of a draw of underwater an weird notes on the windshield of cars telling them the love birds to break up. Jude an Karis take matters in there own hands to find answers, along with help from other family remembers. Granny B, is Jude’s grandmother who finds out more information about the neighborhood in her day camp than a small town gossip Will an she twerks on TikTok. This was fast paced, suspenseful, realistic an mysterious. I’m still hooked. Ali Dean is a excellent author an has changed my mind regarding Young Adult genre of literature.
March 10, 2022
I was so excited to get a advanced reader copy through Bookspourt. I couldn't wait to find out what happened to Karis' mom and who her dad was and where he's been. Why was Renee and Battle being weird and acting to care? There were so many questions from Wilder Match that I devoured this book. I was trying to guess and just knew Ali was going to go with my way of thinking, but man she kept me on my toes and constantly saying wait what!!!!
Jude shows his protective side even more in this book then in the other two. Their love and respect for each other is felt through Ali's words and just jumps off the pages right to your heart. Karis grows so much more confident in Wilder Play and I love seeing it and how she respects and trusts herself more. She opens up to the ones who love her and it warms your heart to finally see her having those kind of relationships since she has never had them before.
There are many twists and turns in this book that I was not expecting, but they made it so much better! I am very excited that this book did not end on a cliffhanger and that Ali tied it all up because I would not have been able to wait for the conclusion.
I am stoked for Book 4 in this series, an extended epilogue, to see where Karis and Jude and all the loved Wilder/Jamison family members end up! Maybe we will get another spin off of the next generation!!
Jude shows his protective side even more in this book then in the other two. Their love and respect for each other is felt through Ali's words and just jumps off the pages right to your heart. Karis grows so much more confident in Wilder Play and I love seeing it and how she respects and trusts herself more. She opens up to the ones who love her and it warms your heart to finally see her having those kind of relationships since she has never had them before.
There are many twists and turns in this book that I was not expecting, but they made it so much better! I am very excited that this book did not end on a cliffhanger and that Ali tied it all up because I would not have been able to wait for the conclusion.
I am stoked for Book 4 in this series, an extended epilogue, to see where Karis and Jude and all the loved Wilder/Jamison family members end up! Maybe we will get another spin off of the next generation!!
March 14, 2022
“WILDER PLAY” REVIEW - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The conclusion of the “Wilder” series wraps up the entire trilogy and if you were left with a lot of unanswered questions at the end of ‘Wilder Match’ you will be happy to know that this book answers all questions perfectly.
Karis and Jude’s relationship really evolves to new levels. Their chemistry is still off the charts but Karis finally lets Jude in completely and doesn’t close herself off. Seeing her development over this series was a welcoming sight for sure. You not only see her character growth and development, but you can clearly see Jude’s as well and can also see a clear growth in their relationship.
Karis and Jude work together to figure out what Renee and Battle are up to. It gets intense at times, there is a lot of drama and you can feel the angst too. But the love and passion that these two main characters have for each other is tested completely. Can Karis and Jude’s love stand the hurdles, the ups and downs and the test of time? Well you are just going to have to read this terrific series by Ali Dean who writes beautifully to find out!
If sports romance with an angsty and suspense vibe is something you enjoy, this is the book for you ❤️😍🔥
The conclusion of the “Wilder” series wraps up the entire trilogy and if you were left with a lot of unanswered questions at the end of ‘Wilder Match’ you will be happy to know that this book answers all questions perfectly.
Karis and Jude’s relationship really evolves to new levels. Their chemistry is still off the charts but Karis finally lets Jude in completely and doesn’t close herself off. Seeing her development over this series was a welcoming sight for sure. You not only see her character growth and development, but you can clearly see Jude’s as well and can also see a clear growth in their relationship.
Karis and Jude work together to figure out what Renee and Battle are up to. It gets intense at times, there is a lot of drama and you can feel the angst too. But the love and passion that these two main characters have for each other is tested completely. Can Karis and Jude’s love stand the hurdles, the ups and downs and the test of time? Well you are just going to have to read this terrific series by Ali Dean who writes beautifully to find out!
If sports romance with an angsty and suspense vibe is something you enjoy, this is the book for you ❤️😍🔥
March 14, 2022
I love Jude and Karis
I think every review I have left for this series has said this and I’m going to say it again. I love this second gen series to Pepper Jones, Its so fun getting little glimpses of past couples and now seeing their kids stories!
This book did have a slightly different vibe than the other two. The first two books did have some of the mystery of what was going on with Karis family and such BUT we also had the whole development of Jude and Karis’ relationship. I highly recommend that you at least have book 2 fresh in your mind before reading this 3rd book. In this book I felt like yes we got Karis and Jude but it went beyond their relationship and more toward solving the other issues happening in the book mainly with her mom and sister. I feel like I could have used some more of Jude and Karis working things out or still having some issues but figuring it out because they’re in love.
I am looking forward to the extended Epilogue Wilder Ace that is coming out in a few months. I can’t wait to see Karis and Jude in the future (near or far) and where they are headed.
I’m giving 4 stars because as much as I enjoyed this book I felt like I need a little bit more of something in it.
I think every review I have left for this series has said this and I’m going to say it again. I love this second gen series to Pepper Jones, Its so fun getting little glimpses of past couples and now seeing their kids stories!
This book did have a slightly different vibe than the other two. The first two books did have some of the mystery of what was going on with Karis family and such BUT we also had the whole development of Jude and Karis’ relationship. I highly recommend that you at least have book 2 fresh in your mind before reading this 3rd book. In this book I felt like yes we got Karis and Jude but it went beyond their relationship and more toward solving the other issues happening in the book mainly with her mom and sister. I feel like I could have used some more of Jude and Karis working things out or still having some issues but figuring it out because they’re in love.
I am looking forward to the extended Epilogue Wilder Ace that is coming out in a few months. I can’t wait to see Karis and Jude in the future (near or far) and where they are headed.
I’m giving 4 stars because as much as I enjoyed this book I felt like I need a little bit more of something in it.
March 8, 2022
So I went into this book not knowing it was the final book. But we got notice by the author that this would be the 3rd and final book. We knew that she wouldn’t be leaving us on a cliffhanger so that was a relief. Karis and Jude’s story is one of the best I’ve read in years. You truly fall in love with this couple and want to see them get their happy ending. Their comes from two different world but that doesn’t really matter when you find the other half of your heart. And even though they are young you just know this is a love that will last forever. Ali knows how to capture your heart and give you a truly beautiful love story. It’s definitely not all rainbows and sunshine. Their story had depth and a bit of a mystery to solve but it only makes this book even better. I am sad that this series is over but truly feel blessed that I got to read it. I hope she has more books in her plans because there is so many characters I want to read about. . I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 6, 2022
***You must read the first two books in this series, or this won't make any sense.***
Ali Dean wraps up this teen love story with aplomb. All the threats are explained. Granny B makes a great backup when Jude stakes out criminals--just the humor we need in a tense situation. Karis grows so much as a person when she has other adults and friends behind her. She realized that things she thought were in others' minds probably weren't as bad as she supposed.
Karis plays tennis, and Jude plays football in the manner of high schoolers everywhere. Ali captures the high school world very well. Kids are mean, spiteful, kind, stupid, forgiving, loving, shy, and overbearing. Mean, or stupid parents plague many. Karis gains so much being with Jude's family. You must read this book to find out all the things that have been hinted at in the earlier books.
I am looking forward to the epilogue, even though we know these two will stay together.
I received an ARC from the author and left this review voluntarily.
Ali Dean wraps up this teen love story with aplomb. All the threats are explained. Granny B makes a great backup when Jude stakes out criminals--just the humor we need in a tense situation. Karis grows so much as a person when she has other adults and friends behind her. She realized that things she thought were in others' minds probably weren't as bad as she supposed.
Karis plays tennis, and Jude plays football in the manner of high schoolers everywhere. Ali captures the high school world very well. Kids are mean, spiteful, kind, stupid, forgiving, loving, shy, and overbearing. Mean, or stupid parents plague many. Karis gains so much being with Jude's family. You must read this book to find out all the things that have been hinted at in the earlier books.
I am looking forward to the epilogue, even though we know these two will stay together.
I received an ARC from the author and left this review voluntarily.
March 2, 2022
This series gets better and better! Jude and Karis are the most adorable couple. Karis finally opens herself emotionally to others and finds that she has way more family than she ever thought was possible. New mysteries, clues, and scary notes send Karis directly into Jude's arms. He is by her side no matter what. This story is a page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. I was entirely blind-sided by all the truths revealing themselves. I pride myself on solving the mystery before I read it on the pages, but I was blown away from the whip-lash I experienced by the intense climax. I hope you're well-rested because this is one book you won't be able to stop devouring until the end—another incredible series by Ali Dean. Watch out, Wilder-Jones; the next generation is coming in hot!
March 11, 2022
I was so excited to get an ARC of this book, because I was so ready to read it as soon as the last book left off with the cliff hanger. I will never stop loving the Wilder family no matter whose story that I am reading. I was happy but very sad to read what happens with Karis and her family. It was definitely
Bittersweet finally finding out what really happened to her biological dad, what happened to her mom, and finally who really was after her. I love that Jude and Karis really developed their feeling towards one another and lets it happen instead of fighting it. I will say that I really did love the way this book ended but I am never prepared to stop reading Ali Dean books because they are just so good. I can’t wait to see what Wilder Ace turns out as an epilog but I am more than excited to read.
Bittersweet finally finding out what really happened to her biological dad, what happened to her mom, and finally who really was after her. I love that Jude and Karis really developed their feeling towards one another and lets it happen instead of fighting it. I will say that I really did love the way this book ended but I am never prepared to stop reading Ali Dean books because they are just so good. I can’t wait to see what Wilder Ace turns out as an epilog but I am more than excited to read.
March 11, 2022
Wilder Play is the third and final book for Jude and Karis. Ali does a fantastic job in wrapping up this story.
Karis finds out some shocking news about her mother and finds out the mystery behind who her father is. With all of these revelations she decides to finally open up and confide in Jude completely.
Through these revelations, some things aren’t adding up and she starts looking at her sister and Battle a lot closer. So many things are uncovered and a surprise ally!
Jude and Karis’s love story will give you all the feels. I loved how Karis finally accepted people into her life instead of just existing in the outside. This is series has been a great story about love, trust and overcoming family stigmas with some mystery thrown in. I can’t wait to read the extended epilogue in May to see what these characters are up to in the future.
Karis finds out some shocking news about her mother and finds out the mystery behind who her father is. With all of these revelations she decides to finally open up and confide in Jude completely.
Through these revelations, some things aren’t adding up and she starts looking at her sister and Battle a lot closer. So many things are uncovered and a surprise ally!
Jude and Karis’s love story will give you all the feels. I loved how Karis finally accepted people into her life instead of just existing in the outside. This is series has been a great story about love, trust and overcoming family stigmas with some mystery thrown in. I can’t wait to read the extended epilogue in May to see what these characters are up to in the future.
March 12, 2022
Karis had just received earth shattering news that frees her while also placing her in extreme danger. Can she rely on those she has only recently learned to trust?
Jude’s protective instincts are revving into high gear as he realizes the girl he loves is in danger from all sides.
They will be tested, individually and together, by forces internal and external.
They are both young love and deep soul mates.
They are ride or die and a breath of fresh air.
I loved this thrilling final installment of the Wilder trilogy! Like all of Ali’s books, it was hard to put down and I read it in one sitting.
This series feels like coming home. I love that Ali gave us the next generation of Pepper and Jace!
Karis and Jude are a must read!
Please note that this is book 3 of a trilogy and must be read in order:
1. Wilder Games
2. Wilder Match
3. Wilder Play
Jude’s protective instincts are revving into high gear as he realizes the girl he loves is in danger from all sides.
They will be tested, individually and together, by forces internal and external.
They are both young love and deep soul mates.
They are ride or die and a breath of fresh air.
I loved this thrilling final installment of the Wilder trilogy! Like all of Ali’s books, it was hard to put down and I read it in one sitting.
This series feels like coming home. I love that Ali gave us the next generation of Pepper and Jace!
Karis and Jude are a must read!
Please note that this is book 3 of a trilogy and must be read in order:
1. Wilder Games
2. Wilder Match
3. Wilder Play
March 12, 2022
Wow!This series has been so exciting so far. I really love Karis and Jude, and think that they are so great together. In this book, Karis finally finds out what was going on with her mom, figures out Renee’s end game to some extent and who her dad is. She just needs to figure out if she is willing to open up to Jude and accept his help or to go it alone as she always has. Jude and Karis has so much sizzling chemistry together, but it is also so sweet. I adore Jude’s family especially Quinn and Bunny, and so many moments of this story had made me smile. Just to note that this definitely is not a standalone novel (well, it could be), as it makes so much more sense to read about what happens in the previous ones.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 7, 2022
Dean continues to write some of the best well-developed characters in sports romance today. Karis and Jude are the epitome of couples goals who have an unshakable trust in each other. Karis and Jude have some mysteries to solve in this last book that require them to trust in each other and their relationship. This is big for Karis who has had trouble trusting anyone. Dean does a wonderful job of blending reality with fiction in a way that keeps me coming back for more every time.
This is the final book in the Wilder series. I love being able to catch up with the Wilder family and see how the family is doing now.
This is the final book in the Wilder series. I love being able to catch up with the Wilder family and see how the family is doing now.
March 9, 2022
This is the third book in this phenomenal series and Jude and Karis’s journey continues. Karis needs to escape from her notorious family, and tennis is her ticket to escape, but she also comes to realise that she cannot carry the heavy burdens of her notorious family on her shoulders by herself anymore, and she finally opens up to Jude, who is right there to listen, support, and protect her. This is a well written fast paced story which is raw, gritty, powerful, and with twists, emotions, romance, intrigue, family, friendships, trust, and love, which leads to a thrilling and entertaining addictive page turner. I cannot wait to read the fourth book, and I highly recommend this talented authors work.
April 18, 2022
Stephannie's 5 Star Review:
Many of our questions now are answered from book 2. But there are still more shocking things happening that kept me on the edge of my seat. Karis and Jude grow closer and Jude is more protective than ever with Karis. These two are amazing together and I just love it.
Karis and Jude take matters into their own hands to get what is needed to prove that Renee and Battle have something to do with Shirley being distributed in their town and surrounding areas. They both have the battle to get away from Renee and there are a lot of twists that make this harder to accomplish. One-click this one to finish this series out and see what happens for these two.
I am excited for Wilder Ace coming out in May 2022.
Many of our questions now are answered from book 2. But there are still more shocking things happening that kept me on the edge of my seat. Karis and Jude grow closer and Jude is more protective than ever with Karis. These two are amazing together and I just love it.
Karis and Jude take matters into their own hands to get what is needed to prove that Renee and Battle have something to do with Shirley being distributed in their town and surrounding areas. They both have the battle to get away from Renee and there are a lot of twists that make this harder to accomplish. One-click this one to finish this series out and see what happens for these two.
I am excited for Wilder Ace coming out in May 2022.
May 31, 2022
I have been fully invested In this series and Jude and Karis story from the beginning and I was waiting on pins and needles for them to get their HEA!! These are two people you can’t help but fall in love with and want to root for them! You get the the suspense they mystery the love and devotion to one another and we get all the answers to the questions we had left over from books 1 & 2. I was fully captivated from beginning to end and I am truly sad this series is over. It was so well written and our author’s writing is phenomenal her attention to detail and ability to put you through the paces just has her characters go through them. She makes you FEEL everything! If you haven’t started this series it is an absolute must!
March 7, 2022
This is a thrilling almost conclusion to this series! Things start kind of slow but then hit the ground running and that speed keeps up all the way through the end. Almost everything you'll want to know gets answered in this one, but I'm sure Ali's gonna clean up all those loose details with the next installment. The communication is better between the characters in this book and it's such a relief. There were funny moments sprinkled through to keep things from being too tense so if you need those to keep trucking along, they're in here! I recommend this series, especially if you've considered jumping in.
March 8, 2022
This book, as are all of Ali Dean's, was a quick and easy read. The 2nd book was left on a cliffhanger so go back and read the last chapter if it has been a while. The thing I love most about this story is that you can tell how much Jude honestly and genuinely adores Karis. It goes against her nature to let someone past her walls and see her demons. Jude doesn't let that stop him or really even bother him. He just keeps showing her that he isn't going anywhere and will always be there for her. And believe me, with all the mystery and action in this book, there are plenty of times he does that for her.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews