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The Wilder Brothers #2
Always the One for Me
The Wilder Brothers from NYT Bestselling Author Carrie Ann Ryan continue in this emotionally charged enemies to lovers romance.
It took two days for me to know Kendall was the one for me.
And it took two years for me to realize I had to leave in order to protect her.
When I walked away, I told myself it was for the best. But now we work together, and every time we’re in the same room, we end up fighting. If we didn’t, we’d end up naked. Or worse–spilling heartbreaking secrets.
If she knew the truth, she’d either walk away for good or convince me to take a second chance. The first thing would break me, and the second would break her. I can’t let either of those things happen…
It took two days for me to know Kendall was the one for me.
And it took two years for me to realize I had to leave in order to protect her.
When I walked away, I told myself it was for the best. But now we work together, and every time we’re in the same room, we end up fighting. If we didn’t, we’d end up naked. Or worse–spilling heartbreaking secrets.
If she knew the truth, she’d either walk away for good or convince me to take a second chance. The first thing would break me, and the second would break her. I can’t let either of those things happen…
320 pages, Paperback
First published August 15, 2022
401 people are currently reading
4828 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Ann Ryan
261 books6,304 followersCarrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Talon Pack, Promise Me, and Elements of Five series, which have sold millions of books worldwide. She's the winner of a RT Book of the Year and a Prism Award in her genres. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
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August 15, 2022Self note with spoilers:
Both with others during separation (8 years, I think she dated and had sex with om, he only slept with ow)
The reason behind the separation is that he was in the military and saw two of his bff died and went to their wifes to tell them about the dead of his friends. After that he couldn’t stop thinking that he couldn’t make his wife a widow. So, he divorced her. She says that he left her anyway and that what he is saying doesn’t make any sense. He obv was suffering from a traumatic experience. She admits that’s she didn’t fight enough for their marriage after he told her that he wanted a divorce. She didn’t know back them that he saw his friends died.
Both with others during separation (8 years, I think she dated and had sex with om, he only slept with ow)
The reason behind the separation is that he was in the military and saw two of his bff died and went to their wifes to tell them about the dead of his friends. After that he couldn’t stop thinking that he couldn’t make his wife a widow. So, he divorced her. She says that he left her anyway and that what he is saying doesn’t make any sense. He obv was suffering from a traumatic experience. She admits that’s she didn’t fight enough for their marriage after he told her that he wanted a divorce. She didn’t know back them that he saw his friends died.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2022
This book had me crying by chapter three and let me tell you it was at an inopportune time because I finally had an hour alone with nothing to do so I decided to treat myself to a pedicure and then out of no where while this nice woman is polishing my toes I am balling like a baby. I kid you not, she looked at me like I was crazy I just picked up my kindle and told her I got to a sad part of the book...and yeah she totally went on thinking I was crazy. And like I said I was only THREE CHAPTERS IN.
Evan and Kendall have a rocky past but no one knew what happened to cause them to divorce, including Kendall. When Evan finally tells her why he left her it was sooo sad, but things don't stay that way thankfully. They have some great moments together and while her family leaves a lot to be desired for, his family is right there to rally along and help them get back to what they once had and I totally loved that.
I knew these two would be explosive when they got back together. 🔥🔥🔥 Ice cold water is recommended to keep near by because these two really know how to heat things up! Oh and don't forget the tissues because you'll need some of those too.
I would recommend this book to those that enjoy Steamy New Adult Contemporary Romances, Former Military Romances, Second Chance Romances, or Large Family Romances.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewAtOfM
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Evan and Kendall have a rocky past but no one knew what happened to cause them to divorce, including Kendall. When Evan finally tells her why he left her it was sooo sad, but things don't stay that way thankfully. They have some great moments together and while her family leaves a lot to be desired for, his family is right there to rally along and help them get back to what they once had and I totally loved that.
I knew these two would be explosive when they got back together. 🔥🔥🔥 Ice cold water is recommended to keep near by because these two really know how to heat things up! Oh and don't forget the tissues because you'll need some of those too.
I would recommend this book to those that enjoy Steamy New Adult Contemporary Romances, Former Military Romances, Second Chance Romances, or Large Family Romances.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewAtOfM
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
August 15, 2022
What a great second chance love story. These Wilder Brothers are sexy, sweet and emotionally scared.
Evan Wilder met the love of his life married her then messed up everything when tragedy struck.
“I know this is insane. I know this makes no sense. But I feel this, Kendall. You do, too. This connection doesn’t come often. Let’s not lose this chance at what we could have.”
Years later she still doesn’t know what happened. Thrown together they finally try to put things back together.
“You said we’re going to try this. Because we’re figuring out who we are now instead of who we were before. So let’s do it. Full in.”
The next book is really gonna be a trip.
Evan Wilder met the love of his life married her then messed up everything when tragedy struck.
“I know this is insane. I know this makes no sense. But I feel this, Kendall. You do, too. This connection doesn’t come often. Let’s not lose this chance at what we could have.”
Years later she still doesn’t know what happened. Thrown together they finally try to put things back together.
“You said we’re going to try this. Because we’re figuring out who we are now instead of who we were before. So let’s do it. Full in.”
The next book is really gonna be a trip.
August 20, 2022
I liked this one, but I also felt like I struggled as I read it, kept putting it down to do things around the house. I was glad when Evan let Kendall know what went wrong in the past for them and that they were able to get past that and work on the present. They were good together and both of them deserved to be happy.
I'm also glad that things with the Dodges was resolved, I didn't care for them.
I'm also glad that things with the Dodges was resolved, I didn't care for them.
November 13, 2025
I really liked this second chance romance story. Kendall and Evan are wonderful together and I enjoyed their story. There was technically a 10 year miscommunication in this one, but the miscommunication on page was resolved fairly quickly which I liked.
I definitely want to continue this series and I am looking forward to the third book in the series, because that teaser in the end was actually crazy, though I do think to properly enjoy this series, I'll have to take a little break before continuing. I have to admit that I am a little confused with the brothers' names all starting with E and I don't know who is who except for Eli and Evan now. 😂
I definitely want to continue this series and I am looking forward to the third book in the series, because that teaser in the end was actually crazy, though I do think to properly enjoy this series, I'll have to take a little break before continuing. I have to admit that I am a little confused with the brothers' names all starting with E and I don't know who is who except for Eli and Evan now. 😂
August 17, 2022
Happy to spend more time with the Wilder Family! I loved the sneak peek of Kendall & Evan that we got in One Way Back To Me. Loved getting to know more about them in this story. This story is second chance at it's best! So much hotness between Evan & Kendall! Excellent narration by Joe Arden & Maxine Mitchell.
August 4, 2022
4 Star Review Always The One For Me (The Wilder Brothers #1) by Carrie Ann Ryan
An entertaining second chance at love story from Carrie Ann Ryan for Evan and Kendall. When Evan walked away from their marriage (in order to protect her) Kendall was hurt and lost.
Now they are working together and complications abound. The attraction and chemistry still sizzles between them which only adds to the chaos. What happens when Kendall learns the truth about what happened? Will it ripo them apart or bring them back together for a second chance at love?
Life hasn’t been easy for either of them and the baggage and hurts of the past have compounded it. This story was at times emotional as they both struggled with coming to terms with the past. However to forge a future together they must confront the past. The question is, will they?
An entertaining second chance at love story from Carrie Ann Ryan for Evan and Kendall. When Evan walked away from their marriage (in order to protect her) Kendall was hurt and lost.
Now they are working together and complications abound. The attraction and chemistry still sizzles between them which only adds to the chaos. What happens when Kendall learns the truth about what happened? Will it ripo them apart or bring them back together for a second chance at love?
Life hasn’t been easy for either of them and the baggage and hurts of the past have compounded it. This story was at times emotional as they both struggled with coming to terms with the past. However to forge a future together they must confront the past. The question is, will they?
August 13, 2022
The author calls this an enemies to lovers but I saw it as a second chance romance.
Evan and Kendall got married young and quickly. Their love was passionate and ran deep or so Kendall thought until two years in Evan divorced her and broke her heart without an explanation.
Eight years later they meet again when she takes a job at his family business. It is intuitively obvious to even the most casual observer that the chemistry between the two is still there if not hotter than ever. It is time for answers and forgiveness.
This story will reduce you to a blubbering mess and leave you with a watery smile.
Evan and Kendall got married young and quickly. Their love was passionate and ran deep or so Kendall thought until two years in Evan divorced her and broke her heart without an explanation.
Eight years later they meet again when she takes a job at his family business. It is intuitively obvious to even the most casual observer that the chemistry between the two is still there if not hotter than ever. It is time for answers and forgiveness.
This story will reduce you to a blubbering mess and leave you with a watery smile.
June 11, 2024
I really enjoyed the Wilder Brother series. I missed the earlier books and now I am going to back to read them. I would recommend reading these in order because each book in the series builds upon previous events. In addition, the writing gets better with each new book. This is the origin story for Evan. It is a traumatic one and heartbreaking. In his messed up thinking, he felt the only way to prevent someone from being hurt was to let them go. I have zero idea how logic works for people like this. Because it makes no sense to me.
To read the rest of my review, click on the image below to see it on my website.
To read the rest of my review, click on the image below to see it on my website.
August 15, 2022
I love the Wilder Brothers, they are flawed, but they are a family. Evan had it all and screwed it up. Can he get her back? Age and hindsight are wonderful things, and conversations with brothers who love to set you straight.
When Evan walked away, Kendall was hurt, a little lost, but not sure what she had done because Evan never explained. But, now that time has passed, and they are working together, are the chemistry and love still there? Will they get a second chance? Are the troubles with the Dodges coming to a head?
I am ready for the next book in the series.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
When Evan walked away, Kendall was hurt, a little lost, but not sure what she had done because Evan never explained. But, now that time has passed, and they are working together, are the chemistry and love still there? Will they get a second chance? Are the troubles with the Dodges coming to a head?
I am ready for the next book in the series.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
August 8, 2022
She thought everything between them was perfect, until the day he asked for a divorce and walked away. That day was the worst of her life, and the ones that have followed haven't been all that great either because she still doesn't know why he said goodbye. But she continues to put one foot in front of the other, pastes a smile on her face, and does what she has to to get by. But now that they are working for the same company, his families company, it's becoming harder to maintain the lie that she is okay.
He's always there reminding her of what they lost, what he gave up and offers little to no reason why, she wants to let him go and move on... but she can't. He has a hold on her that she feels like she will never be able to shake free from, it's an impossible situation. One that can't go on for much longer...
The pages of Always the One for Me hold a heart-wrenching tale of loss, love, regret, healing, and second chances. Evan knew the day he told her he wanted a divorce that he was making the biggest mistake of his life, but keeping her wasn't an option either. He needed to protect her and leaving her was the only answer he could come up with... and he's regretted it everyday since. They were perfect for one another, a pairing that everyone thought would last forever, but he messed that up and now he wants to fix it. But Kendall isn't willing to let him in again, she wants answers, ones he isn't prepared to give. But if he doesn't he might just lose her forever.
My heart broke for these two, both facing unimaginable pain and loss, suffering in silence, and the one person that they both wanted to turn to was the person they couldn't. It was a torturous bout of push and pull, you could see they belonged with one another, but their doubts and history kept pulling them back. Eventually though things began to take shape, healing and forgiveness found them, and my heart soared for them. If there were ever two characters that needed a little happy it was these two, and once they found it again there was no stopping them. I loved every minute of this beautifully penned journey, it did a number on my heart, but it was SO worth it!! Highly recommend!!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
He's always there reminding her of what they lost, what he gave up and offers little to no reason why, she wants to let him go and move on... but she can't. He has a hold on her that she feels like she will never be able to shake free from, it's an impossible situation. One that can't go on for much longer...
The pages of Always the One for Me hold a heart-wrenching tale of loss, love, regret, healing, and second chances. Evan knew the day he told her he wanted a divorce that he was making the biggest mistake of his life, but keeping her wasn't an option either. He needed to protect her and leaving her was the only answer he could come up with... and he's regretted it everyday since. They were perfect for one another, a pairing that everyone thought would last forever, but he messed that up and now he wants to fix it. But Kendall isn't willing to let him in again, she wants answers, ones he isn't prepared to give. But if he doesn't he might just lose her forever.
My heart broke for these two, both facing unimaginable pain and loss, suffering in silence, and the one person that they both wanted to turn to was the person they couldn't. It was a torturous bout of push and pull, you could see they belonged with one another, but their doubts and history kept pulling them back. Eventually though things began to take shape, healing and forgiveness found them, and my heart soared for them. If there were ever two characters that needed a little happy it was these two, and once they found it again there was no stopping them. I loved every minute of this beautifully penned journey, it did a number on my heart, but it was SO worth it!! Highly recommend!!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
November 2, 2022
Always The One For Me is book two in Carrie Ann Ryan’s Wilder Brothers series featuring Evan Wilder (ex-military hottie) and Kendall Wilder (chef and Evan’s ex-wife). The Wilder Brothers have opened a winery/ event venue after leaving the military with Kendall as the chef. Can these two work together???
This book brought all the feelings from the first chapters making me cry to the steam these two created, I was all in from the jump. A second chance romance can go either way for me but the angst, drama, pining and chemistry had me cheering for these two! I adore the other Wilder brothers and how they supported Kendall and Evan when her parents are totally wretched!
I don’t think you need to read the first book to enjoy this one. I listened to Always The One For Me and the dual narration with Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell was perfect. I can’t wait for the next book!!!
This book brought all the feelings from the first chapters making me cry to the steam these two created, I was all in from the jump. A second chance romance can go either way for me but the angst, drama, pining and chemistry had me cheering for these two! I adore the other Wilder brothers and how they supported Kendall and Evan when her parents are totally wretched!
I don’t think you need to read the first book to enjoy this one. I listened to Always The One For Me and the dual narration with Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell was perfect. I can’t wait for the next book!!!
August 25, 2022
I love second chance stories, Carrie Ann did such an amazing job at the storytelling with Evan and Kendall
Evan walked away from their marriage for reasons and he couldn’t tell her. I get the reasons, but it still hurt Kendall tremendously. Now that they are back working together, things get very, very complicated.
This book had us going through so many emotions, make sure you have tissues around. The story kept my attention until I turned the last page, I could not put it down. I loved getting to know the characters and how they overcome their past in order to have a future.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Evan walked away from their marriage for reasons and he couldn’t tell her. I get the reasons, but it still hurt Kendall tremendously. Now that they are back working together, things get very, very complicated.
This book had us going through so many emotions, make sure you have tissues around. The story kept my attention until I turned the last page, I could not put it down. I loved getting to know the characters and how they overcome their past in order to have a future.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
August 4, 2022
This second chance romance is full of rich angst, raw emotions, hot passion and bittersweet feels. I found it very easy to get caught up in this couple's story and to fall in love with them. My heart truly ached for them, and I found it deeply moving to see them deal with their pain, learn and grow from their mistakes and finally get the happiness they deserved. So beautiful! I am freely posting a frank review.
August 15, 2022
Oh, what a heartbreaking, sweet, sexy, and feel-good second chance romance. There is no way you won't be crying by the end of the first few chapters. Thank goodness I picked this up when I was alone. I am still not over it.
November 16, 2025
I actually enjoyed this one more than book one — it felt like there was more passion, more depth, and overall better storytelling. The characters connected in a way that pulled me in more this time, and the romance had a stronger spark.
A solid 3-star read for me!
A solid 3-star read for me!
August 10, 2022
Love this series
Love the Wilders
Kendall and Evans broken heartstopping intense gripping 2nd chance
Ready for more.
Ready for Everett
Love the Wilders
Kendall and Evans broken heartstopping intense gripping 2nd chance
Ready for more.
Ready for Everett
April 22, 2024
Intriguing storyline. An emotional roller-coaster with a hard earned HEA. Great characters.
August 19, 2022
"Marry me? Be my wife again. Be a Wilder in truth and in name and in everything."
"I'm already a Wilder, but I'll be yours too,"
Always the One for Me by Carrie Ann Ryan is the second book in The Wilder Brothers series which is Evan and Kendall's story.
Evan has always regretted walking away from Kendall and breaking her heart. Now with her around all the time after years apart, he wishes there was a way for them to put their past behind them and move forward together again.
Evan and Kendall have had a rough go of things but I love how they were able to move forward and begin to heal properly together. The little bit of background suspense keeps you guessing and glued to the book.
I am enjoying the Wilder brothers and can not wait for what is next.
Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell were amazing as always. As two of my favourite narrators, I knew this was going to be a must listen.
4.5 Maple Leafs for Always the One for Me which contains... mf, workplace, second chance, enemies-to-lovers, and dual first-person point of view.
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"I'm already a Wilder, but I'll be yours too,"
Always the One for Me by Carrie Ann Ryan is the second book in The Wilder Brothers series which is Evan and Kendall's story.
Evan has always regretted walking away from Kendall and breaking her heart. Now with her around all the time after years apart, he wishes there was a way for them to put their past behind them and move forward together again.
Evan and Kendall have had a rough go of things but I love how they were able to move forward and begin to heal properly together. The little bit of background suspense keeps you guessing and glued to the book.
I am enjoying the Wilder brothers and can not wait for what is next.
Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell were amazing as always. As two of my favourite narrators, I knew this was going to be a must listen.
4.5 Maple Leafs for Always the One for Me which contains... mf, workplace, second chance, enemies-to-lovers, and dual first-person point of view.
Follow → Facebook ❤️ Instagram 🖤 Twitter ❤️ TikTok 🖤 Blog
August 26, 2022
Arc. I loved Kendall and Evan's story. It was an emotional rollercoaster but a beautiful end. I love how I was so into the read I didn't want it to end. Carrie Ann has a way of keeping her readers engaged.
Narrators did an amazing job with this and made Carrie Ann's story come to life beyond the page.
Narrators did an amazing job with this and made Carrie Ann's story come to life beyond the page.
August 15, 2022
Basically I love this series, and this book was everything that I wanted it to be. I love this couple. This book shows the resiliency that this couple has even though they have been divorced, they basically ooze with the care for each other. This is the best story
April 27, 2023
I couldn’t with this book.
I truly couldn’t.
In this book, we feature Kendall “I Kept My Ex’s-Last-Name-For-No-Logically-Reason” WILDER and her ex-husband who has an E name, but I’m too lazy to look at the blurb. They married as young and dumb young adults, divorced for ✨mysterious✨ reasons, and now, Kendall is the head chef of the Wilders Resort with her ex-husband a winery director. Will these ex-spouses ever uncover the truth about their divorce and make their way back to a healthy marriage?
The way this book disappointed me is way more than one of my own exes disappointed me.
Let’s get this straight: this book has not invented the wheel. Like all second-chance romances, the flame of passion is alive for both leads, even after the divorce and their alleged “hatred” for one another. And because this flame of passion is alive, quite easily can they slip into the bed sheets with minimal emotional work and maximum sexual effort.
I’m so tired.
A friend and I gagged how Kendall complained about how she kept the last name of her ex-husband because she loves him. That’s it. That’s why.
Are you serious?
There are more compelling ways to write that sort of rationale without making her seem like another weak FL who pathetically clings to the past. Maybe she had debt in her married last name and refinancing would tank her credit and livelihood. Maybe her maiden name came with 99 attachments she was trying to escape from.
But no.
She loves him, so “I’m a Wilder too”.
Flick off with that, I’m not even sorry about it.
I shouldn’t have been shocked at how quickly the leads paired off. The first book disappointed me since it was clear in the storytelling that this wasn’t supposed to be deep and emotional, but raw and erotic. And I love smut scenes! But if you promote your book as a romance, I expect some sort of emotional development. Instead, I’m hardly attached to these leads and their problems. I was curious 10 seconds into meeting them in Book 1, but then it became clear to me that my curiosity was for nothing since Kendall can’t act rational in any sense of the word around her ex and the H is just…
I’m tired.
I’m so tired.
I bought the first book as a freebie, read a few other books because I hoped this was a typical “first book slump”.
It wasn’t.
I read the 4th book just because I wanted to see Elijah and Maddie and—surprise, surprise—another case of women’s fiction with romantic and erotic elements and not actual romance.
It is what it is. 3 stars is my generous review. Draco and Hermione “Divorced AU” fanfiction had more depth 🤷♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2023
Wilder again
3.5⭐️3🌶️
Evan had his reasons… reasons for walking away 8 years ago. But he never stopped loving her. He never dealt with the lose of his military brothers. Now that he was the vineyard coordinator at Wilder, maybe it was time to start confronting the past. Time to confront the fact that he wants his ex-wife back in his life and and not just as the resort’s head chef.
Kendall had grown to hate him. He left without a backward glance, and she let him. Maybe he wasn’t the only one to blame for the ending of their whirlwind marriage. Working with him at Wilder brings up all the pain from the past. Will he finally explain? Can they move forward, because that’s definitely what her body wants. Her body wants her ex-husband back for good.
I love the chemistry between Evan and Kendall. They work through their second-chance romance to get that HEA! Still not loving the “bad guy” parts… it’s too easy to pin all the non-relationship drama on certain men acting like violent barbarians.
Would still recommend to any military romance readers.
3.5⭐️3🌶️
Evan had his reasons… reasons for walking away 8 years ago. But he never stopped loving her. He never dealt with the lose of his military brothers. Now that he was the vineyard coordinator at Wilder, maybe it was time to start confronting the past. Time to confront the fact that he wants his ex-wife back in his life and and not just as the resort’s head chef.
Kendall had grown to hate him. He left without a backward glance, and she let him. Maybe he wasn’t the only one to blame for the ending of their whirlwind marriage. Working with him at Wilder brings up all the pain from the past. Will he finally explain? Can they move forward, because that’s definitely what her body wants. Her body wants her ex-husband back for good.
I love the chemistry between Evan and Kendall. They work through their second-chance romance to get that HEA! Still not loving the “bad guy” parts… it’s too easy to pin all the non-relationship drama on certain men acting like violent barbarians.
Would still recommend to any military romance readers.
October 7, 2023
DNF @ 30%
Star Rating : 2.5 ⭐️
Spice Rating : 2 🌶️
Overall Thoughts :
Had to DNF at about 30%. It started off strong and I was really invested in finding out how they'd find their way back to each other, but then they seemed to be on their way to reconciliation pretty early on and quite suddenly and I lost interest.
Things I Enjoyed :
I was immediately drawn in and rooting for MCs. I liked that it started with their past and then went to present day instead of hopping back and forth throughout.
Things I Didn’t Love :
There was a little too much shop-talk about wine and the family business and side characters that wasn't interesting or necessary to the plot. I also thought MMCs motivation for leaving was borderline laughable in its lack of logic and so dumb that they somehow hadn't ever talked about his reasoning for EIGHT YEARS.
Tropes :
- Second Chance
- Forced Proximity
CWs :
- PTSD (on page description of war/violence)
- MMC pushes FMC away
Star Rating : 2.5 ⭐️
Spice Rating : 2 🌶️
Overall Thoughts :
Had to DNF at about 30%. It started off strong and I was really invested in finding out how they'd find their way back to each other, but then they seemed to be on their way to reconciliation pretty early on and quite suddenly and I lost interest.
Things I Enjoyed :
I was immediately drawn in and rooting for MCs. I liked that it started with their past and then went to present day instead of hopping back and forth throughout.
Things I Didn’t Love :
There was a little too much shop-talk about wine and the family business and side characters that wasn't interesting or necessary to the plot. I also thought MMCs motivation for leaving was borderline laughable in its lack of logic and so dumb that they somehow hadn't ever talked about his reasoning for EIGHT YEARS.
Tropes :
- Second Chance
- Forced Proximity
CWs :
- PTSD (on page description of war/violence)
- MMC pushes FMC away
August 14, 2022
4.5 stars
They had a whirlwind romance when they were young, marrying only a few days after meeting. But after 2 years married with multiple deployments, Evan walked away from their marriage to protect Kendall. She didn’t see it the same way, and though years have passed, she still doesn’t understand how he could just walk away. Now that he is out of the military and building a business with his family, he regrets the way he left the marriage, but still feels it was for the best. Kendall may be working for the Wilders and still carries the Wilder name, but she avoids Evan as much as she can.
Working together means they have to face each other daily, and though they’ve been divorced for years, there are still unsettled feelings between them. As time continues, the tension rises and it is only a matter of time until they will have to face it.
Evan is carrying emotional baggage from his military time that he hasn’t fully faced in his time away. The trauma of losing brothers-in-arms, and eventually his leg left him with nightmares and worries about leaving those he loves. He will have to face those fears in order to find any sort of contentment in his present.
There is a lot going on with the business in the background as Kendall and Evan tip toe around each other. The brothers have a solid plan, but are still struggling with the competition trying to take clients from them.
This was a great addition to the Wilder family series. I loved Evan and Kendall and was rooting for them the whole time. I was able to figure out a few of the twists before they were revealed, but thoroughly enjoyed the entire story. I was in a bit of a reading slump when this one came to the top of my stack and it felt like it jump started me out of the lull. I flew through the pages and couldn’t wait for Evan and Kendall to find their HEA! I loved returning to this family and world, and can’t wait to see what is in store for Everett in THE PATH TO YOU.
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They had a whirlwind romance when they were young, marrying only a few days after meeting. But after 2 years married with multiple deployments, Evan walked away from their marriage to protect Kendall. She didn’t see it the same way, and though years have passed, she still doesn’t understand how he could just walk away. Now that he is out of the military and building a business with his family, he regrets the way he left the marriage, but still feels it was for the best. Kendall may be working for the Wilders and still carries the Wilder name, but she avoids Evan as much as she can.
Working together means they have to face each other daily, and though they’ve been divorced for years, there are still unsettled feelings between them. As time continues, the tension rises and it is only a matter of time until they will have to face it.
Evan is carrying emotional baggage from his military time that he hasn’t fully faced in his time away. The trauma of losing brothers-in-arms, and eventually his leg left him with nightmares and worries about leaving those he loves. He will have to face those fears in order to find any sort of contentment in his present.
There is a lot going on with the business in the background as Kendall and Evan tip toe around each other. The brothers have a solid plan, but are still struggling with the competition trying to take clients from them.
This was a great addition to the Wilder family series. I loved Evan and Kendall and was rooting for them the whole time. I was able to figure out a few of the twists before they were revealed, but thoroughly enjoyed the entire story. I was in a bit of a reading slump when this one came to the top of my stack and it felt like it jump started me out of the lull. I flew through the pages and couldn’t wait for Evan and Kendall to find their HEA! I loved returning to this family and world, and can’t wait to see what is in store for Everett in THE PATH TO YOU.
August 15, 2022
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥
Kendall Wilder (nee Beauregard) loves her job as the head chef for Wilder Resort. She finally gets to flex her culinary skills and make her food ideas come to life. The only downside is having to work with her ex-husband, who happens to co-own the resort with his brothers.
Evan Wilder regrets walking away from his greatest love, but every time he sees Kendall, all he can see is the urge to protect her from everything, including himself. At least that's how he justifies walking away from their marriage after coming back from military deployment.
If you love broken but resilient men and the women who will love them unconditionally, this is the series for you. This second installment brings us Evan and Kendall's second chance love story. Two people who are still very much in love with each other but they have two big obstacles to achieving a happily ever after: trauma and hurt.
These two quickly realize, however, that the best cures for those are love and a supportive family. I love that regardless of their personal flaws and traumas, the Wilder family is always there for each other. This even extends to their partners, employees, and friends.
This book promises romance and second chances, and it delivers that well and more. We also get a nice element of suspense and action that adds a welcomed change of pace to the story. If you are looking for spicy, this book also provides a hot connection between our main characters. It didn't even matter if some of it was the hate variety -- I always thought that is some of the hottest scenes in this book and in general.
This can be read as a standalone, but it does call back to the main characters in the first and future books. To get a full context and experience that is the Wilder universe, I highly recommend starting from the beginning.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Carrie Ann Ryan and Give Me Books Promotions for providing an ARC. **
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥
Kendall Wilder (nee Beauregard) loves her job as the head chef for Wilder Resort. She finally gets to flex her culinary skills and make her food ideas come to life. The only downside is having to work with her ex-husband, who happens to co-own the resort with his brothers.
Evan Wilder regrets walking away from his greatest love, but every time he sees Kendall, all he can see is the urge to protect her from everything, including himself. At least that's how he justifies walking away from their marriage after coming back from military deployment.
If you love broken but resilient men and the women who will love them unconditionally, this is the series for you. This second installment brings us Evan and Kendall's second chance love story. Two people who are still very much in love with each other but they have two big obstacles to achieving a happily ever after: trauma and hurt.
These two quickly realize, however, that the best cures for those are love and a supportive family. I love that regardless of their personal flaws and traumas, the Wilder family is always there for each other. This even extends to their partners, employees, and friends.
This book promises romance and second chances, and it delivers that well and more. We also get a nice element of suspense and action that adds a welcomed change of pace to the story. If you are looking for spicy, this book also provides a hot connection between our main characters. It didn't even matter if some of it was the hate variety -- I always thought that is some of the hottest scenes in this book and in general.
This can be read as a standalone, but it does call back to the main characters in the first and future books. To get a full context and experience that is the Wilder universe, I highly recommend starting from the beginning.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Carrie Ann Ryan and Give Me Books Promotions for providing an ARC. **
August 25, 2022
Waiting to board a plane to Vegas isn't the most romantic way to meet someone but that's how Evan and Kendall met, by the time they landed in Vegas their whirlwind romance had begun. It took only two days to meet, fall in love and get married. But their marriage only lasted two years before Evan walked away and they divorced, what made it worse was that he never told her why. What had she done wrong? Evan was in the military which meant she had changed her whole life to fit in with him, his leaving devastated her
Now some eight years later all the Wilder brothers have left the military and are trying to rebuild their lives but Evan's time in the military has left him emotionally crippled by PTSD and the loss of his leg. The brothers with the help of an inheritance have purchased a winery and resort and are all rebuilding their lives whilst working closely together. But some two years in they need a new chef and the best one for the job turns out to be Kendall Wilder.
Will they be able to work together in such close proximity, they are both determined to try but to do this they are going to have to get past their pain and communicate. The attraction and chemistry are still strong between them, and they end up making love but Evan does it again, he walks away afterwards! For a time it's like it never happened but eventually, they do talk and agree to try again. What follows is a wonderful second chance romance. Their journey is an emotional rollercoaster ride, I cried for them as I cheered them on. There are some shocking twists I didn't see coming, I was on the edge of my seat with my heart in my throat - I can't say more without spoiling this wonderfully moving story for you should you decide to download it yourself.
There are two epilogues the first gives us a glimpse into the next book in the series, boy am I looking forward to that one but the second is all about Evan and Kendall.
The narration is superbly done by Maxine Mitchell and Joe Arden, Maxine's portrayal of Kendall is faultless, she made you hear the hurt and feel the pain she felt as well as showing us what a strong, sunny and friendly person she is. I loved the way Joe was able to express Evan's grouchy, broody, darker moments as well as the lighter ones.
Now some eight years later all the Wilder brothers have left the military and are trying to rebuild their lives but Evan's time in the military has left him emotionally crippled by PTSD and the loss of his leg. The brothers with the help of an inheritance have purchased a winery and resort and are all rebuilding their lives whilst working closely together. But some two years in they need a new chef and the best one for the job turns out to be Kendall Wilder.
Will they be able to work together in such close proximity, they are both determined to try but to do this they are going to have to get past their pain and communicate. The attraction and chemistry are still strong between them, and they end up making love but Evan does it again, he walks away afterwards! For a time it's like it never happened but eventually, they do talk and agree to try again. What follows is a wonderful second chance romance. Their journey is an emotional rollercoaster ride, I cried for them as I cheered them on. There are some shocking twists I didn't see coming, I was on the edge of my seat with my heart in my throat - I can't say more without spoiling this wonderfully moving story for you should you decide to download it yourself.
There are two epilogues the first gives us a glimpse into the next book in the series, boy am I looking forward to that one but the second is all about Evan and Kendall.
The narration is superbly done by Maxine Mitchell and Joe Arden, Maxine's portrayal of Kendall is faultless, she made you hear the hurt and feel the pain she felt as well as showing us what a strong, sunny and friendly person she is. I loved the way Joe was able to express Evan's grouchy, broody, darker moments as well as the lighter ones.
August 17, 2022
Second chance romances sometimes are tricky. But Carrie Ann Ryan does this one beautifully. I fell in love with Evan and Kendall in One Way Back to Me.
When we met Evan in book one of this series Carrie Ann Ryan did an amazing job showing us how sad and lost he seemed. Evan works hard to protect those around him, even distancing himself if he feels he could be harmful to them. It is clear after reading more about Evan that he loves so much, but doesn't let people see his emotions…even those closest to him. His brothers try so hard to pull him in and encourage him to open up. But that seems like something he is only able to do around and for Kendall, who is the new head chef at the resort and also happens to be his ex-wife. That is right, ex-wife.
Kendall Wilder is a hard working chef that has worked her way through school and to become head chef somewhere. Kendall has a personality that pulls you in and makes you really want to get to know her. She easily builds friendships with others at the resort, and she makes some seriously amazing food. It is clear that she is hurt by Evan and even though they have to work together, she is determined to make it work….because she has finally accomplished her dream.
I was so intrigued by their relationship and how it all occurred. And the more and more we got to know about their marriage and past, the more I was cheering for them to find themselves back to one another. Evan and Kendall both have a very deep sense of family, and hard work. I enjoyed how much the book centered around food, because Kendall truly loves what she does. How the Wilder family rallies around each other to support and protect their own was so amazingly done in this book and makes me want all their stories even more now! This book has a good amount of mystery and angst as their feud with the Dukes continues. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Wilder family, and I am more and more excited for the books yet to come in this series…..I want them all!
When we met Evan in book one of this series Carrie Ann Ryan did an amazing job showing us how sad and lost he seemed. Evan works hard to protect those around him, even distancing himself if he feels he could be harmful to them. It is clear after reading more about Evan that he loves so much, but doesn't let people see his emotions…even those closest to him. His brothers try so hard to pull him in and encourage him to open up. But that seems like something he is only able to do around and for Kendall, who is the new head chef at the resort and also happens to be his ex-wife. That is right, ex-wife.
Kendall Wilder is a hard working chef that has worked her way through school and to become head chef somewhere. Kendall has a personality that pulls you in and makes you really want to get to know her. She easily builds friendships with others at the resort, and she makes some seriously amazing food. It is clear that she is hurt by Evan and even though they have to work together, she is determined to make it work….because she has finally accomplished her dream.
I was so intrigued by their relationship and how it all occurred. And the more and more we got to know about their marriage and past, the more I was cheering for them to find themselves back to one another. Evan and Kendall both have a very deep sense of family, and hard work. I enjoyed how much the book centered around food, because Kendall truly loves what she does. How the Wilder family rallies around each other to support and protect their own was so amazingly done in this book and makes me want all their stories even more now! This book has a good amount of mystery and angst as their feud with the Dukes continues. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Wilder family, and I am more and more excited for the books yet to come in this series…..I want them all!
August 21, 2022
Evan and Kendall - all the feels
Evan and Kendall have a long history together. But it's fraught with secrets and pain and love.
Evan and Kendall will ring all kinds of bells, some good some bad, especially with those who serve in the armed forces. It's about the strife those families go through and the challenges of staying married when there's so much you can't control.
As a retired military wife, this story hit me right where it hurts. It brought back memories and fears. It also reminded me why I'm so proud to have done it for 25 years. It reminded me that we made it through to the other side our marriage intact and lots of lessons learned.
Evan and Kendall ended up with a different path that led to heartache and separation from each other for quite a long time. But fate has a way of putting you where you're supposed to be and with whom you're supposed to be.
When Kendall starts working for Evan's family's new business there's lots of tension. There's lots of angst and snark and some downright meanness going on. But it's all because there are so many unresolved issues as well as feelings that never went away. Time sometimes heals wounds, but sometimes it makes them fester. Until you open them up, get all the gunk out and really start to heal.
Evan and Kendall need to open up their wounds so they can heal. Will they do that? Will they be able to get through their past hurts? Will they get to their happily ever after?
The answer to those questions lies in this amazing work. Pick it up and you'll have all the feels, just like I did. Carrie Ann Ryan has amazing world and character building skills that grab you by the heart and don't let go until you've reached the end.
This is part of a series but can be read completely as a stand alone. You DON'T have to read any other books by Ms. Ryan to read this one. But for a deeper understanding I do recommend reading at least book on in this series. You won't be disappointed not matter what route you take.
Enjoy.
Evan and Kendall have a long history together. But it's fraught with secrets and pain and love.
Evan and Kendall will ring all kinds of bells, some good some bad, especially with those who serve in the armed forces. It's about the strife those families go through and the challenges of staying married when there's so much you can't control.
As a retired military wife, this story hit me right where it hurts. It brought back memories and fears. It also reminded me why I'm so proud to have done it for 25 years. It reminded me that we made it through to the other side our marriage intact and lots of lessons learned.
Evan and Kendall ended up with a different path that led to heartache and separation from each other for quite a long time. But fate has a way of putting you where you're supposed to be and with whom you're supposed to be.
When Kendall starts working for Evan's family's new business there's lots of tension. There's lots of angst and snark and some downright meanness going on. But it's all because there are so many unresolved issues as well as feelings that never went away. Time sometimes heals wounds, but sometimes it makes them fester. Until you open them up, get all the gunk out and really start to heal.
Evan and Kendall need to open up their wounds so they can heal. Will they do that? Will they be able to get through their past hurts? Will they get to their happily ever after?
The answer to those questions lies in this amazing work. Pick it up and you'll have all the feels, just like I did. Carrie Ann Ryan has amazing world and character building skills that grab you by the heart and don't let go until you've reached the end.
This is part of a series but can be read completely as a stand alone. You DON'T have to read any other books by Ms. Ryan to read this one. But for a deeper understanding I do recommend reading at least book on in this series. You won't be disappointed not matter what route you take.
Enjoy.
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