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Wild Love #1
Wild at Heart
Overworked entrepreneur Jules Martinez is sick and tired of men leaving her for their exes. Determined to wipe the giant, scarlet R for rebound off her forehead, she kicks off a yearlong vow of celibacy with five, blissful weeks backpacking her favorite stretches of the Pacific Coast Trail (PCT) through Washington State. Solo.
Out-of-work financial analyst Evan Davenport hasn’t been happy since he was camping in Boy Scouts as a kid —before his wealthy parents and now ex-fiancé made all his major life decisions. Hoping to find joy and purpose, he buys all the latest ultralight backpacking gear, leaves a note, flies to Washington, and sets off alone on his first week-long speed hike through the wilderness.
Except Mother Nature has other plans and keeps shoving Evan and Jules in each other’s paths. Usually naked. When sparks fly, can they find what they’re looking for in life together instead of apart?
Out-of-work financial analyst Evan Davenport hasn’t been happy since he was camping in Boy Scouts as a kid —before his wealthy parents and now ex-fiancé made all his major life decisions. Hoping to find joy and purpose, he buys all the latest ultralight backpacking gear, leaves a note, flies to Washington, and sets off alone on his first week-long speed hike through the wilderness.
Except Mother Nature has other plans and keeps shoving Evan and Jules in each other’s paths. Usually naked. When sparks fly, can they find what they’re looking for in life together instead of apart?
370 pages, Paperback
Published May 2, 2022
16 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
About the author
Stacy Gold
6 books198 followersCompulsive tea drinker. Outdoor sports junkie. Lover of good (and bad) puns.
Stacy Gold gave up her day job as Communications Director of a nonprofit mountain biking organization to write sassy, steamy, contemporary romance novels. Her stories are packed with strong, independent women finding love and adventure in the great outdoors (Think Sarina Bowen or Elle Kennedy, but with skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, etc. instead of hockey/team sports).
When Stacy’s not busy reading or writing, you can find her dancing, laughing or playing hard in the mountains with her wonderful hubby and happy dogs.
Stacy Gold gave up her day job as Communications Director of a nonprofit mountain biking organization to write sassy, steamy, contemporary romance novels. Her stories are packed with strong, independent women finding love and adventure in the great outdoors (Think Sarina Bowen or Elle Kennedy, but with skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, etc. instead of hockey/team sports).
When Stacy’s not busy reading or writing, you can find her dancing, laughing or playing hard in the mountains with her wonderful hubby and happy dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
February 21, 2023
This story could have easily been a 4+ star read but Jules really tested me at the 3/4 mark and kept on testing me until almost the end.
May 10, 2022
Wild At Heart was an interesting, captivating, smexy novel.
I was so into this book from start to finish I couldn't put it down until I had devoured every word.
I adored the naturalistic trip through the Pacific Crest Trail, the best thing is that you can admire this beautiful place staying comfortably at home sitting on your couch, and I tell you as a lazy, not so keen to get dirty, city woman. The descriptions are so detailed it seems to be out there sleeping under the stars, but at the same time they don't bore you.
Jules and Evan are running away from their unsatisfying lives, they meet while they are backpacking solo. They started their journeys to find themselves but they ended meeting their better halves.
I really liked these characters, it was a pleasure to see Jules and Evan grow chapter after chapter and to see how they overcome their fears of not being good enough, or of falling in love again risking a new heartbreak.
I've read some short novellas written by this author, I loved them and I can assure you Stacy Gold also wrote a great full novel. I can't wait to get her next book in my hands.
May 9, 2022
A modern-day flip on a damsel in distress romance where the heroine saves the hero in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Jules is cursed when it comes to love and romance. She’s had enough so she takes a vow of celibacy for one year and spends five weeks hiking along her favorite trails. She delights in the solitude until an inexperienced backpacker named Evan crashes her tranquil serenity. She offers him advice and rescue, time and again. Against her better judgment and vow, temptation wins out. Sure, he’s got baggage galore, and he can’t seem to relax but there’s something alluring about him. It might be his naked body on display, or it could be his vulnerability. One thing’s for sure…you’ve got to be wild at heart to fall in love in the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Wild at Heart is the much-anticipated release by Stacy Gold and it surpassed my expectations. This romantic adventure will transport you to the trails of Washington State, so you better bring your backpacking gear. From the first page, I connected with Jules. She’s a very independent, nature-loving woman who loves nothing more than to hike along her favorite trails and enjoy the rugged beauty of the wilderness. She’s more capable than most men and this comes in handy when she meets Evan, repeatedly, along the trail. I loved the dynamics between these two. It starts out with Jules rescuing Evan but as time goes by, Evan does his own rescuing. Isn’t that the case in a healthy loving relationship? Each partner takes turns helping the other. The romance covers a few tropes and was such fun to read. What makes this a five-plus-star book, though, is the intricate descriptive narration. Stacy Gold is an experienced outdoorswoman, and she brings her zeal for backpacking and hiking to every word she writes. Her narration is so full of life, you’ll be yearning to explore outside just by reading Wild at Heart. A brilliant romance, Wild at Heart is your next bucket list read.
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it. My thoughts are completely my own.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Wild at Heart is the much-anticipated release by Stacy Gold and it surpassed my expectations. This romantic adventure will transport you to the trails of Washington State, so you better bring your backpacking gear. From the first page, I connected with Jules. She’s a very independent, nature-loving woman who loves nothing more than to hike along her favorite trails and enjoy the rugged beauty of the wilderness. She’s more capable than most men and this comes in handy when she meets Evan, repeatedly, along the trail. I loved the dynamics between these two. It starts out with Jules rescuing Evan but as time goes by, Evan does his own rescuing. Isn’t that the case in a healthy loving relationship? Each partner takes turns helping the other. The romance covers a few tropes and was such fun to read. What makes this a five-plus-star book, though, is the intricate descriptive narration. Stacy Gold is an experienced outdoorswoman, and she brings her zeal for backpacking and hiking to every word she writes. Her narration is so full of life, you’ll be yearning to explore outside just by reading Wild at Heart. A brilliant romance, Wild at Heart is your next bucket list read.
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it. My thoughts are completely my own.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
March 6, 2022
This book is alright! It began out ok, but as it progressed, it became a little tedious. I enjoyed watching them hike and reading about their adventures, but when the hiking was over and they had to return to their normal life, things fell apart. He moved to live with her, and she basically pushed him away after learning about his trust funds? I- I don’t know. Evan was my favorite of the two. It was, however, difficult to make a connection with them. That, I believe, is what has me uncertain about whether I enjoyed it or not.
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸
February 26, 2022
It was enjoyable, the nature/hiking aspect was probably my favorite part and definitely what drew me in. I liked Evan’s character a lot, and really liked how he grew and flourished throughout the book.
I liked the hiking sections the best, and really enjoyed the beginning, it wasn’t necessarily a slow burn and you could sense the “miscommunication” mishap coming, but it also surprised me a lot and took turns I wasn’t expecting.
I didn’t feel particularly connected to the story though, I thought it was fun and angsty, but it just fell flat in many ways as well. The ending especially just felt like it dragged on and on, and it would have been better if it ended earlier and cut some of that short.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the hiking sections the best, and really enjoyed the beginning, it wasn’t necessarily a slow burn and you could sense the “miscommunication” mishap coming, but it also surprised me a lot and took turns I wasn’t expecting.
I didn’t feel particularly connected to the story though, I thought it was fun and angsty, but it just fell flat in many ways as well. The ending especially just felt like it dragged on and on, and it would have been better if it ended earlier and cut some of that short.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2022
[Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.]
I love adventure stories, and romance stories. So when I saw the premise for this book (adventure + romance), I was super stoked.
What I enjoyed -
The adventurous aspect of the story. I know someone who hiked this same trail and the amount of preparation and training she underwent to be able to do it felt immense. Someday I would love to walk this trail myself, but at this point in my physical and mental fortitude, that day is a long way away, so it was great to be able to do this through Jules' POV.
Jules's strength and independence. I liked that she was the one we relied on to keep them both safe and straight while on this adventure. She had her head together, even though her personal life had imploded. She is a strong and capable woman, and we need more of those!
Evan is a cinnamon roll. I enjoyed his character development and his personal arc very much.
What I did not enjoy as much -
The pace dragged a lot. So I would skim through sections of the book to get to the speedier bits.
Sometimes the writing felt a bit rough. Maybe it was the writing style or the voice, but the characters felt younger and slightly more immature than I would expect from 20 somethings? This made it a bit cringy in some parts.
The romance between Jules and Evan, while sweet, was a bit of a struggle to connect to. I enjoyed the first half, on the trail bits, more than the latter half, off-the-trail bits.
I love adventure stories, and romance stories. So when I saw the premise for this book (adventure + romance), I was super stoked.
What I enjoyed -
The adventurous aspect of the story. I know someone who hiked this same trail and the amount of preparation and training she underwent to be able to do it felt immense. Someday I would love to walk this trail myself, but at this point in my physical and mental fortitude, that day is a long way away, so it was great to be able to do this through Jules' POV.
Jules's strength and independence. I liked that she was the one we relied on to keep them both safe and straight while on this adventure. She had her head together, even though her personal life had imploded. She is a strong and capable woman, and we need more of those!
Evan is a cinnamon roll. I enjoyed his character development and his personal arc very much.
What I did not enjoy as much -
The pace dragged a lot. So I would skim through sections of the book to get to the speedier bits.
Sometimes the writing felt a bit rough. Maybe it was the writing style or the voice, but the characters felt younger and slightly more immature than I would expect from 20 somethings? This made it a bit cringy in some parts.
The romance between Jules and Evan, while sweet, was a bit of a struggle to connect to. I enjoyed the first half, on the trail bits, more than the latter half, off-the-trail bits.
August 23, 2022
WILD AT HEART by Stacy Gold is a stand-alone, action/adventure romance novel.
What do you get when you cross a strong, sexy heroine with an inexperienced but lovable hero? A steamy romance, laugh-out-humor, and plenty of action and adventure.
Jules Martinez took a vow of celibacy after a string of men left her for their exes. Taking a month away from her job in Seattle she sets off to hike her favorite section of the Pacific Crest Trail, determined to heal her heart and set her life on a new path.
Recently unemployed, Evan Davenport walks away from a life of privilege in Boston and his controlling parents and ex-fiancé to hike the Pacific Crest Trail. He's determined to find himself and the joy and purpose missing from his life, but he knows absolutely nothing about hiking. Fortunately, he meets up with Jules, who saves him from freezing to death.
This author not only gives you a beautiful, touching romance, but her evocative descriptions put the reader on the trail with two characters you can't help but fall in love with. I loved this book and look forward to the next book by this author.
What do you get when you cross a strong, sexy heroine with an inexperienced but lovable hero? A steamy romance, laugh-out-humor, and plenty of action and adventure.
Jules Martinez took a vow of celibacy after a string of men left her for their exes. Taking a month away from her job in Seattle she sets off to hike her favorite section of the Pacific Crest Trail, determined to heal her heart and set her life on a new path.
Recently unemployed, Evan Davenport walks away from a life of privilege in Boston and his controlling parents and ex-fiancé to hike the Pacific Crest Trail. He's determined to find himself and the joy and purpose missing from his life, but he knows absolutely nothing about hiking. Fortunately, he meets up with Jules, who saves him from freezing to death.
This author not only gives you a beautiful, touching romance, but her evocative descriptions put the reader on the trail with two characters you can't help but fall in love with. I loved this book and look forward to the next book by this author.
May 18, 2022
This book started out kinda slow. Like hiking through the mountains would be. But it was amusing the way the heroine kept saving the hero from disaster after disaster.
Then things picked up in the middle - the hero had to deal with his life back in Boston, the heroine continued the hike and had to wrestle with plans for her future and whether or not she’d trust the hero to return.
But then their reunion, and the last quarter of the book, just made me cranky. The kind, sweet, thoughtful hero texts the heroine everyday, doesn’t insist on seeing her - even though he doesn’t know a single person in his new city, and gives her the space she demanded, sends her a quick text every day so she knows he’s thinking about her, and she only responds every few days because she doesn’t want to let herself like him? W. T. F. To me, her behavior came off more as manipulative and less as trying to protect herself. I get why the heroine felt so much pressure to make things work with the hero, but good grief I get so frustrated when characters get in their own way of happiness.
I ended up despising the heroine and didn’t like the ending much, at all. The middle part of the book was good, the beginning I didn’t mind, But that ending sucked all my pleasant opinions about this book right out of my head.
* thank you to NetGalley and Onyva for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Then things picked up in the middle - the hero had to deal with his life back in Boston, the heroine continued the hike and had to wrestle with plans for her future and whether or not she’d trust the hero to return.
But then their reunion, and the last quarter of the book, just made me cranky. The kind, sweet, thoughtful hero texts the heroine everyday, doesn’t insist on seeing her - even though he doesn’t know a single person in his new city, and gives her the space she demanded, sends her a quick text every day so she knows he’s thinking about her, and she only responds every few days because she doesn’t want to let herself like him? W. T. F. To me, her behavior came off more as manipulative and less as trying to protect herself. I get why the heroine felt so much pressure to make things work with the hero, but good grief I get so frustrated when characters get in their own way of happiness.
I ended up despising the heroine and didn’t like the ending much, at all. The middle part of the book was good, the beginning I didn’t mind, But that ending sucked all my pleasant opinions about this book right out of my head.
* thank you to NetGalley and Onyva for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
April 2, 2022
*I received a free ARC copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
3.5/5 stars rounded up
I really enjoyed this book, it had a lot of good things going for it. Badass, independent woman? Check! Golden-retriever vibes man? Also check! Their chemistry was great, their meet-cute was adorable, and the whole hiking adventure was wonderful. I did feel like Jules's struggle with letting Even into her life was totally believable, especially considering her past. I also appreciated that we didn't dwell too much on the 12 exes, it was the impetus for the story and added some character growth, but it wasn't too much of the actual plot.
However, there were times where the narrative stalled and the book lost momentum. I also found the ending rather abrupt, but not dissatisfying. Overall I think this is a strong 3.5/5 star read, I will be recommending it to my friends, and I had a great time while reading it!
3.5/5 stars rounded up
I really enjoyed this book, it had a lot of good things going for it. Badass, independent woman? Check! Golden-retriever vibes man? Also check! Their chemistry was great, their meet-cute was adorable, and the whole hiking adventure was wonderful. I did feel like Jules's struggle with letting Even into her life was totally believable, especially considering her past. I also appreciated that we didn't dwell too much on the 12 exes, it was the impetus for the story and added some character growth, but it wasn't too much of the actual plot.
However, there were times where the narrative stalled and the book lost momentum. I also found the ending rather abrupt, but not dissatisfying. Overall I think this is a strong 3.5/5 star read, I will be recommending it to my friends, and I had a great time while reading it!
June 12, 2022
Rating: 3.5/5.0
“Wild at Heart” has a wonderful premise, especially for those who love their romance with a touch of outdoorsy adventure.
Read full review in the 2022 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
“Wild at Heart” has a wonderful premise, especially for those who love their romance with a touch of outdoorsy adventure.
Read full review in the 2022 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
January 27, 2022
Special thanks to NetGalley and Onyba for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC. The opinions reflected below are my own!
What I liked about the book:
1. Ever since I read Jenn Bennett's Starry Eyes I have been hooked on these outdoor/camping love stories. I love the secluded nature of it and how the characters are truly in their own world. This book definitely had plenty to offer both on and off the trail.
2. I definitely identified with the characters being as though I am an accountant who loves nature. When I read she is a design consultant and he was a financial analyst, I thought "No sh*t these people are in consulting. I have to 'find myself' every couple of years in my industry too". It just hit on that deeper level for me.
3. I love that Jules is waaaaay better at camping and just surviving in nature than Evan is (even though he's a former boy scout!). It's hilarious and totally not what you would expect putting him in the damsel in distress role.
4. The steam was very sweet and very good. I just love how patient Evan is the entire time, as well as when he's trying to win her over just to be in a relationship with her. He is a total cinnamon role and I'm starting to doubt my devotion to the typical "alpha-male" characters.....
5. I love that the trail is really of a metaphor for their lives.
Evan stumbles a lot at first and almost dies (literally) but he ends up conquering. This is very similar to his professional life back home and I love that he learns to make better decisions both in nature and in the real world.
Jules is fierce on and off the trail, starting out (and wanting to remain) solo. Thankfully, in both instances, she comes around to wanting company.
Why it didn't get 5 stars:
1. Like a mountain I would stare at but never climb, the highs were high and the lows were low. The book dragged a lot in various places, which made it a little difficult to stay motivated to read it.
2. The end wrapped up too nicely. There were too many boxes checked in the last couple pages of the book, that it was really unrealistic.
3 Wild Stars!
The book comes out May 2, 2022!
What I liked about the book:
1. Ever since I read Jenn Bennett's Starry Eyes I have been hooked on these outdoor/camping love stories. I love the secluded nature of it and how the characters are truly in their own world. This book definitely had plenty to offer both on and off the trail.
2. I definitely identified with the characters being as though I am an accountant who loves nature. When I read she is a design consultant and he was a financial analyst, I thought "No sh*t these people are in consulting. I have to 'find myself' every couple of years in my industry too". It just hit on that deeper level for me.
3. I love that Jules is waaaaay better at camping and just surviving in nature than Evan is (even though he's a former boy scout!). It's hilarious and totally not what you would expect putting him in the damsel in distress role.
4. The steam was very sweet and very good. I just love how patient Evan is the entire time, as well as when he's trying to win her over just to be in a relationship with her. He is a total cinnamon role and I'm starting to doubt my devotion to the typical "alpha-male" characters.....
5. I love that the trail is really of a metaphor for their lives.
Evan stumbles a lot at first and almost dies (literally) but he ends up conquering. This is very similar to his professional life back home and I love that he learns to make better decisions both in nature and in the real world.
Jules is fierce on and off the trail, starting out (and wanting to remain) solo. Thankfully, in both instances, she comes around to wanting company.
Why it didn't get 5 stars:
1. Like a mountain I would stare at but never climb, the highs were high and the lows were low. The book dragged a lot in various places, which made it a little difficult to stay motivated to read it.
2. The end wrapped up too nicely. There were too many boxes checked in the last couple pages of the book, that it was really unrealistic.
3 Wild Stars!
The book comes out May 2, 2022!
March 9, 2022
WILD AT HEART caught my attention with its premise of an outdoorsy romance. I love books set in nature and about long-distance hikes but have only read YA romance books in this category. Sadly, the execution of Wild At Heart felt a little lacklustre.
I loved the outdoorsy portions, the way the author described the scenery of the pacific north west. I also liked what a confident and serene hiker Jules was, and how she had to haul Evan out of the worst situations. But everything else: the characterisation, the insta-attraction and following insta-love, the repetitive way of describing their desire for each other — all of this had me rolling my eyes by the time I hit the 50% mark. I decided to DNF the book at this point. I feel like a slower burning tension between the characters would have helped this book, but as it is, I’m not very interested to continue reading anymore.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the outdoorsy portions, the way the author described the scenery of the pacific north west. I also liked what a confident and serene hiker Jules was, and how she had to haul Evan out of the worst situations. But everything else: the characterisation, the insta-attraction and following insta-love, the repetitive way of describing their desire for each other — all of this had me rolling my eyes by the time I hit the 50% mark. I decided to DNF the book at this point. I feel like a slower burning tension between the characters would have helped this book, but as it is, I’m not very interested to continue reading anymore.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2024
Overall I really did enjoy this book... it was a fun read and I was really craving an outdoorsy romance but one with the roles reversed; so instead of the guy being the outdoor/wilderness expert, it was the woman and that's what this story was.
That being said though, I was about ready to throw this book across the room near the end because of how stupid the characters were being! All that was needed was communication and probably some therapy on Jules part hahaha.
I did like Jules, her character was fun and she was a very strong willed woman and knew her stuff.... unfortunately can't say the same for Evan haha; I did really like him but the man was quite ridiculous thinking he could just hike the PCT without any sort of preparations or knowledge.... though that did make for a fun read haha.
All in all I had fun and it was just a nice, chill read :)
(I do feel like the ending was a bit rushed but it wasn't bad be any means)
That being said though, I was about ready to throw this book across the room near the end because of how stupid the characters were being! All that was needed was communication and probably some therapy on Jules part hahaha.
I did like Jules, her character was fun and she was a very strong willed woman and knew her stuff.... unfortunately can't say the same for Evan haha; I did really like him but the man was quite ridiculous thinking he could just hike the PCT without any sort of preparations or knowledge.... though that did make for a fun read haha.
All in all I had fun and it was just a nice, chill read :)
(I do feel like the ending was a bit rushed but it wasn't bad be any means)
January 25, 2022
Thank you #NetGalley and Onyba for the advance reader copy, all opinions are my own.
Wild at Heart is a quick and fun read that dips its toe into the deeper topics of self-reflection, worth and loss. While this is a romance, it also is a story of self-discovery.
Jules and Evan separately decide to solo backpack along the PCT to help learn about themselves and find out what they really want in their life. An unfortunate circumstance along the way (love that Jules is the rescuer and not a damsel in distress) sets up their meet cute and begins their journey. While some parts of this story seemed underdeveloped, overall, I found it refreshingly sweet and funny. The banter between Evan and Jules is delightful and story itself was entertaining. #WildatHeartwildlove
Wild at Heart is a quick and fun read that dips its toe into the deeper topics of self-reflection, worth and loss. While this is a romance, it also is a story of self-discovery.
Jules and Evan separately decide to solo backpack along the PCT to help learn about themselves and find out what they really want in their life. An unfortunate circumstance along the way (love that Jules is the rescuer and not a damsel in distress) sets up their meet cute and begins their journey. While some parts of this story seemed underdeveloped, overall, I found it refreshingly sweet and funny. The banter between Evan and Jules is delightful and story itself was entertaining. #WildatHeartwildlove
March 21, 2022
As a PNW resident, who is familiar with the PCT, I was really excited to read this story. I love that our hero, Evan, needs frequent saving along the trail from our heroine, Jules. Each has come separately to the famous trail for reflection, but after a pretty unique and refreshing meet-cute, end up finding love. Unfortunately, the premise is better than the execution. The writing and story are underdeveloped. And all charm is lost once they leave the trail. I think with a little reworking, this would be a really fun and unique romcom.
Thanks to NetGalley, and the publisher for this eARC, in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley, and the publisher for this eARC, in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
April 17, 2022
After adoring Wild and Into the Wild recently I'm constantly on the look out for books with a hiking theme. I really enjoyed the parts on the trail, I wasn't as dedicated to the romance part of the book but this was a good overall read
May 18, 2022
Review will follow
Thanks to the publisher for providing me with an ARC.
3 stars 🌟
Thanks to the publisher for providing me with an ARC.
3 stars 🌟
November 2, 2022
I wasn’t sure what to expected when I started reading this book. My contemporary choices lately have not been hits. So, I was a bit weary when I open the eBook and then I fell into the wonderful, sweet, sexy, funny world of Stacy Gold. Full Review: https://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews...
June 20, 2023
WILD AT HEART is the first book in the Wild Love series and we meet Jules and Evan, both consultants, both hiking to put their world to rights.
One thing I want to say straight away is I'm NOT a hiker. I go for walks, yes, but not hikes. So I tip my hat to the author for her obvious love of hiking and the outdoors. Her experience shines through in every word when they're on the trail, which made it a delight to read.
The relationship between Jules and Evan was full of peaks and dips too. Some of which I empathised with and understood. Others just frustrated me and made that part of the book slow down to a snail's pace as I slogged past it. Mainly told from Jules' perspective, I found her to be hanging onto past trauma without making much of an effort to move past it. She was quick to place distance between her and Evan for the most spurious of reasons. He, at least, acknowledged his faults and worked hard to overcome them. He also had the patience of a saint, which he needed with Jules!
The ending is nicely wrapped up with a big bow although it was a bit quick and convenient after all the (sometimes unnecessary) drama.
My rating would be 3.5 stars but I'm rounding it up for both Archaeolibrarian and Goodreads. I would recommend this outdoorsy romance for fans of contemporary romance.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 27, 2022
One thing I want to say straight away is I'm NOT a hiker. I go for walks, yes, but not hikes. So I tip my hat to the author for her obvious love of hiking and the outdoors. Her experience shines through in every word when they're on the trail, which made it a delight to read.
The relationship between Jules and Evan was full of peaks and dips too. Some of which I empathised with and understood. Others just frustrated me and made that part of the book slow down to a snail's pace as I slogged past it. Mainly told from Jules' perspective, I found her to be hanging onto past trauma without making much of an effort to move past it. She was quick to place distance between her and Evan for the most spurious of reasons. He, at least, acknowledged his faults and worked hard to overcome them. He also had the patience of a saint, which he needed with Jules!
The ending is nicely wrapped up with a big bow although it was a bit quick and convenient after all the (sometimes unnecessary) drama.
My rating would be 3.5 stars but I'm rounding it up for both Archaeolibrarian and Goodreads. I would recommend this outdoorsy romance for fans of contemporary romance.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 27, 2022
May 4, 2022
Great fun in the Outdoors!
Fun easy read. I really liked the the characters Great strong female. The authors way of describing the surroundings...I felt I was hiking with them. I never new camping could be so hot!
Fun easy read. I really liked the the characters Great strong female. The authors way of describing the surroundings...I felt I was hiking with them. I never new camping could be so hot!
April 20, 2022
Wild At Heart
Stacy Gold
Pub date: 5/2/22
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Jules & Evan
Loved the meet cute
Slow burn
Delicious spice
Great setting
Jules is an enigma. She has a very guarded persona due to a past trauma, simply taking what she needs and giving a minimum in return as a means of protecting herself. I appreciated that she was written in such an accepting and truthful way, especially as the culture moves into a place where sex becomes more casual and women become more confident in their own sexuality.
I would have liked a more in depth and conservationist/environmental perspective. I really love books that lean into environmental causes and with the setting of the book being the PNW, it could have done more there, I think. For example, the mention of the “clear-cut city” would have been a great segue to an opportunity to explore and add some depth and complexity to the story, and for deep and meaningful knowledge to be shared about the human impact on the environment. That said, I did also love the personal passion project and direction that Evan found for himself as he navigates into the future.
I enjoyed Evan’s growth and appreciated the upfront honesty about being totally lost and trying to figure his shit out. It was refreshing for a MMC. His relationship with his brother was wonderful to see grow a bit, too. I know there are plans for Bryn and Aly, but can [Big] John get a story too?! (Feel free to use the nickname I coined for him, haha)!
I did feel as though the momentum stalled a bit upon the return to the city, and that the ending was a bit abrupt. I would have liked a more complete vision of the progress made with the NPO but maybe that’s coming in future books?
All in all, I enjoyed it! Thank you for the opportunity to read and review with this ARC!
Stacy Gold
Pub date: 5/2/22
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Jules & Evan
Loved the meet cute
Slow burn
Delicious spice
Great setting
Jules is an enigma. She has a very guarded persona due to a past trauma, simply taking what she needs and giving a minimum in return as a means of protecting herself. I appreciated that she was written in such an accepting and truthful way, especially as the culture moves into a place where sex becomes more casual and women become more confident in their own sexuality.
I would have liked a more in depth and conservationist/environmental perspective. I really love books that lean into environmental causes and with the setting of the book being the PNW, it could have done more there, I think. For example, the mention of the “clear-cut city” would have been a great segue to an opportunity to explore and add some depth and complexity to the story, and for deep and meaningful knowledge to be shared about the human impact on the environment. That said, I did also love the personal passion project and direction that Evan found for himself as he navigates into the future.
I enjoyed Evan’s growth and appreciated the upfront honesty about being totally lost and trying to figure his shit out. It was refreshing for a MMC. His relationship with his brother was wonderful to see grow a bit, too. I know there are plans for Bryn and Aly, but can [Big] John get a story too?! (Feel free to use the nickname I coined for him, haha)!
I did feel as though the momentum stalled a bit upon the return to the city, and that the ending was a bit abrupt. I would have liked a more complete vision of the progress made with the NPO but maybe that’s coming in future books?
All in all, I enjoyed it! Thank you for the opportunity to read and review with this ARC!
December 21, 2022
Fine story just a lot of unnecessary fluff
The story was fine, don't get me wrong. A few errors, but that's not a big deal to me, we are all human right? The story started really slow, but with beautiful imagery of my home state so I didn't mind it really. You are following Jules Martinez a graphic designer who is unfulfilled in the life she's built since losing a loved one. Enter Evan, an idiot and frantic city boy who thinks some fresh air and an adventure will kill a lifetime of people pleasing and self sacrificial decisions will just magically go away. He's also wildly unprepared.
This is where the story splits in two. The beginning doesn't feel cohesive with the latter three quarters of the book. Were there a few spicy scenes, yes, okay cool story. But throughout this book, I kept wanting more. More character development, more back story, more of everything I wasn't getting. I was just getting a lot of unnecessary fluff. The book really could have been at least a hundred pages shorter. I think I read somewhere that this author is more known for short stories, and that would make sense here for me. Can I ask, WHERE IS THE TENSION? It was missing.
And I'm sorry this is a personal pet peeve, don't paint Seattle like its the magnificent city it once was. No one goes hiking, walking or running on the Burke Gilman trail unless they are looking for their tent or looking for drugs.
Also, who wants to go down on a girl after 25 miles of hiking? The answer to that is no one.
There were just parts of the story that had me rolling my eyes and other, parts that I skimmed because I have a stack of other books calling my name. I guess the best way to put it, is that this story didn't give me enough to stay invested.
The story was fine, don't get me wrong. A few errors, but that's not a big deal to me, we are all human right? The story started really slow, but with beautiful imagery of my home state so I didn't mind it really. You are following Jules Martinez a graphic designer who is unfulfilled in the life she's built since losing a loved one. Enter Evan, an idiot and frantic city boy who thinks some fresh air and an adventure will kill a lifetime of people pleasing and self sacrificial decisions will just magically go away. He's also wildly unprepared.
This is where the story splits in two. The beginning doesn't feel cohesive with the latter three quarters of the book. Were there a few spicy scenes, yes, okay cool story. But throughout this book, I kept wanting more. More character development, more back story, more of everything I wasn't getting. I was just getting a lot of unnecessary fluff. The book really could have been at least a hundred pages shorter. I think I read somewhere that this author is more known for short stories, and that would make sense here for me. Can I ask, WHERE IS THE TENSION? It was missing.
And I'm sorry this is a personal pet peeve, don't paint Seattle like its the magnificent city it once was. No one goes hiking, walking or running on the Burke Gilman trail unless they are looking for their tent or looking for drugs.
Also, who wants to go down on a girl after 25 miles of hiking? The answer to that is no one.
There were just parts of the story that had me rolling my eyes and other, parts that I skimmed because I have a stack of other books calling my name. I guess the best way to put it, is that this story didn't give me enough to stay invested.
June 3, 2022
Wild at Heat by Stacy Gold is an adventurous tale about hiking through the PCT, making your own path in life and finding love again for Jules and Evan. What was suppose to be a month of hiking alone on the PCT for Jules turned into her rescuing an unprepared hiker not once but twice and she found that you don’t have to go about doing everything solo as long as you have the right partner. Evan was out of his element out on the trail and in life. He finally decided to make the changes he needed for himself and his beautiful rescuer helped him without needing anything in return. As they hiked together, Jules and Evan learned more about each other, life and what they wanted out of their futures. But can they survive together in the real world off the trail or will their respective baggage be too much to carry?
Jules and Evan both showed tremendous growth throughout each chapter both individually and together. Evan’s changes seem dramatic and all at once but were very much in line with someone finally doing things for themselves and perusing something they are passionate about. Jules had a lot of self doubt and guilt she needed to work through that she cling to and used as a crutch to not take the risk of letting someone get close to her heart. Evan was patient with Jules and met her where she needed to be and at her own pace while still standing up for himself.
Wild at Heat is the first book in a new series by Stacy Gold and the second book featuring one of Jules’ best friends Aly is coming out later this year.
Thank you @netgalley and publishers for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
Jules and Evan both showed tremendous growth throughout each chapter both individually and together. Evan’s changes seem dramatic and all at once but were very much in line with someone finally doing things for themselves and perusing something they are passionate about. Jules had a lot of self doubt and guilt she needed to work through that she cling to and used as a crutch to not take the risk of letting someone get close to her heart. Evan was patient with Jules and met her where she needed to be and at her own pace while still standing up for himself.
Wild at Heat is the first book in a new series by Stacy Gold and the second book featuring one of Jules’ best friends Aly is coming out later this year.
Thank you @netgalley and publishers for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
January 29, 2022
I received a Arc copy of “Wild at Heart” by Stacy Gold from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I’m an avid hiker and the camping/backpacking aspect of this story appealed to me. The story is set in Washington state on the Pacific Crest Trail. Jules, a freelance graphic designer and kids gymnastics coach, is the female main character who has had a long run of bad luck in relationships. She sets out on a solo hiking and backpacking adventure to do some soul searching.
Evan, a Financial advisor from Boston, is the male lead character who has recently lost his job and his fiancé. He too decides to set off on a backpacking trip on the PCT. Unlike Jules, Evan is woefully unprepared for this trip and his mishaps often had me on the edge of my seat.
I love how Jules is such a competent and fierce main character. The author does an amazing job painting a picture of their surroundings and the beauty of nature. This was a quick and enjoyable read and I loved the authors writing style and duel points of view. The side relationships between Jules and her two best friends and Evan and his brother added more depth to the main characters.
The scene where Jules and Even first met had me chuckling out loud. “The guy wasn’t setting up his tent, he was in a full-fledged, mixed martial arts fight with it.” This sentence painted such a vivid picture for me.
In all, this was a wonderful read for those interested in second chances, romance, and the crazy paths that life can take us on.
I’m an avid hiker and the camping/backpacking aspect of this story appealed to me. The story is set in Washington state on the Pacific Crest Trail. Jules, a freelance graphic designer and kids gymnastics coach, is the female main character who has had a long run of bad luck in relationships. She sets out on a solo hiking and backpacking adventure to do some soul searching.
Evan, a Financial advisor from Boston, is the male lead character who has recently lost his job and his fiancé. He too decides to set off on a backpacking trip on the PCT. Unlike Jules, Evan is woefully unprepared for this trip and his mishaps often had me on the edge of my seat.
I love how Jules is such a competent and fierce main character. The author does an amazing job painting a picture of their surroundings and the beauty of nature. This was a quick and enjoyable read and I loved the authors writing style and duel points of view. The side relationships between Jules and her two best friends and Evan and his brother added more depth to the main characters.
The scene where Jules and Even first met had me chuckling out loud. “The guy wasn’t setting up his tent, he was in a full-fledged, mixed martial arts fight with it.” This sentence painted such a vivid picture for me.
In all, this was a wonderful read for those interested in second chances, romance, and the crazy paths that life can take us on.
August 6, 2022
This was such a brilliant read. I really couldn't put this book down it was such an amazing story. I tried so hard to read this book in one sitting but in the end I had to sleep. so I just got up early as I was so excited to read the end it really was worth it. The story-line was epic so interesting, entertaining and heartwarming. It made me feel great and contained lots of emotions. It flowed so well at a nice relaxing medium pace. It is one of those romance novels where your heart just melts. Where you try so hard not to fall for the man. This is an amazing start to what's going to be a brilliant series of books. It was also a rather unique where the female protagonist is so scared of being hurt so it affects the decisions she makes which making for a gripping edge of your seat read. Will she won't she...
The character development was wonderful. I totally fell in love with the characters and became emotionally involved in there story. Which lead to this book being a real page turning novel. I couldn't fault this book in any way and I just loved the cover as to me it held great emotion. The settings of this book was amazing set in Seattle on the PCT Pacific crest trail. I really can't recommend this book enough. I know that your going to love this book if you love emotional romance books.
I will definitely be looking out for more books to read from this talented author.
Only the highest of praise goes out to the author and publishing team for creating such an emotional roller coaster ride that will have you totally engrossed.
The character development was wonderful. I totally fell in love with the characters and became emotionally involved in there story. Which lead to this book being a real page turning novel. I couldn't fault this book in any way and I just loved the cover as to me it held great emotion. The settings of this book was amazing set in Seattle on the PCT Pacific crest trail. I really can't recommend this book enough. I know that your going to love this book if you love emotional romance books.
I will definitely be looking out for more books to read from this talented author.
Only the highest of praise goes out to the author and publishing team for creating such an emotional roller coaster ride that will have you totally engrossed.
May 26, 2022
As someone with a dream to hike the Appalachian Trail someday, this book appealed to me. It was a cute and sweet romance centered around hiking and the outdoors, which led to some beautiful scene setting. Jules is an avid outdoorswoman and Evan is a businessman with very little hiking experience. Jules ends up having to save him several times from danger which was a nice twist from the typical hero saves the heroine trope. I loved that the MC was a strong and capable woman. Evan is vulnerable and insecure, which is an often unseen characteristic in MC men. Jules was seeking peace and quiet and Evan didn't allow her to find that.
The book and the romance starts off a little slow, especially with Jules having sworn off men for a while. It was a weird mix between insta-love and very slow burn. There were a couple times I found myself silently yelling in frustration at some of the choices the characters made, namely Evan, that didn't make any sense. Even Jules came off as fickle and a bit manipulative at times. Both of them got in their own way. No one could or would just make up their mind and there was some miscommunication too, which was a little annoying. Just be happy already. The big question was if their relationship would thrive in the real world the same way it sizzled in nature. Sometimes the drama seemed a little excessive, but I guess it makes the happy ending more satisfying when the characters have to work harder for it.
The book and the romance starts off a little slow, especially with Jules having sworn off men for a while. It was a weird mix between insta-love and very slow burn. There were a couple times I found myself silently yelling in frustration at some of the choices the characters made, namely Evan, that didn't make any sense. Even Jules came off as fickle and a bit manipulative at times. Both of them got in their own way. No one could or would just make up their mind and there was some miscommunication too, which was a little annoying. Just be happy already. The big question was if their relationship would thrive in the real world the same way it sizzled in nature. Sometimes the drama seemed a little excessive, but I guess it makes the happy ending more satisfying when the characters have to work harder for it.
August 1, 2022
This is a beautifully written story of two people each for their own reasons decide to hike in the wilderness. Jules swears she's going to stay off men for a year then start fresh after her boyfriend goes back to his ex.that makes twelve that have gone back to their exes. She decides to take off an hike in the mountains an forest.She hopes to find clarity.As she bunks down for the night she gets woke up by a person cussing up a storm its pouring outside an cold as hell.When she opens the flap of her tent she says you can share my tent tonight can't have you freezing to death. Its pouring rain an she tells him to takeoff his wet clothes before he shares her sleeping bag even makes a joke about shrinkage they both laugh.Evan decided to go hiking for a week because he wants to decide what he wants to do not something his parents want.Even broke up with his fiancee not someone he choose she was someone his parents picked. He knows when he gets back there will be he'll to pay.The woman that took him in kept him warm gave him hot tea an everything an didn't want anything in return she was a breath of fresh air.She's funny,beautiful in the girl next door way an has a big heart.She saved him.will he make it to the end he wanted without almost getting himself killed?There are so many twists an turns to this story you will be riveted until the very last page an leave you begging for more.I can hardly wait to see what's next by this multi talented author.
March 6, 2022
3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for a honest review.
For me this was a solid 3.5 stars. I loved the premise of the book, adventure and romance, because what’s not to love? The beginning and middle of the book were incredibly enjoyable, and I was fully engrossed in the story. The chemistry was good, the storyline was unique and funny and you can tell that the author is really knowledgeable about hiking which made the story believable and engrossing.
The middle of this book reminded me of how much I love contemporary romance; however, I found the plot fizzled out once the characters were off trail and out of the ‘adventure’ aspect of the novel. I loved the characters as individuals and together but when we reached the third act breakup, I knew the plot was going to become predictable. I was left rolling my eyes at all of Jules excuses and it caused the story to lose momentum for me. I wish there was another chapter at the end so I could’ve gotten a bigger glimpse into Evan and Jules relationship after all the hurtles since the ending did seem a little abrupt.
Overall, this is a very unique, outdoorsy romance and would make for an excellent summer read.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for a honest review.
For me this was a solid 3.5 stars. I loved the premise of the book, adventure and romance, because what’s not to love? The beginning and middle of the book were incredibly enjoyable, and I was fully engrossed in the story. The chemistry was good, the storyline was unique and funny and you can tell that the author is really knowledgeable about hiking which made the story believable and engrossing.
The middle of this book reminded me of how much I love contemporary romance; however, I found the plot fizzled out once the characters were off trail and out of the ‘adventure’ aspect of the novel. I loved the characters as individuals and together but when we reached the third act breakup, I knew the plot was going to become predictable. I was left rolling my eyes at all of Jules excuses and it caused the story to lose momentum for me. I wish there was another chapter at the end so I could’ve gotten a bigger glimpse into Evan and Jules relationship after all the hurtles since the ending did seem a little abrupt.
Overall, this is a very unique, outdoorsy romance and would make for an excellent summer read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2022
My idea of going hiking is having to walk to the mall from the furthest row in the parking lot, so I wasn't sure how I'd like a book about a backpacking adventure. I shouldn't have worried. I LOVED the story of Evan and Jules trip. They were perfect together. The story was full of action, hot romance, heart-tugging confessions and enough pop culture references to make reading it like looking for the Easter eggs in a Marvel movie.
If the book had ended with the couple going back to Seattle and living happily ever after right after she finishes the hike, it would have been a solid 5 star read. But it doesn't. What comes after almost feels like a second story - and it's not, by any means, a bad story. It just changes the mood completely. It's much darker. The snarky banter and in jokes are gone and we see a very different Evan and Jules. Of course, it's a romance, so I never doubted they'd work things out and get their happily ever after ending, but I almost wish it had happened in a sequel.
Anyway, I really did like the book, and if I, the most non-backpacking great outdoors person I know loved, you know there was a lot there to keep me reading.
If the book had ended with the couple going back to Seattle and living happily ever after right after she finishes the hike, it would have been a solid 5 star read. But it doesn't. What comes after almost feels like a second story - and it's not, by any means, a bad story. It just changes the mood completely. It's much darker. The snarky banter and in jokes are gone and we see a very different Evan and Jules. Of course, it's a romance, so I never doubted they'd work things out and get their happily ever after ending, but I almost wish it had happened in a sequel.
Anyway, I really did like the book, and if I, the most non-backpacking great outdoors person I know loved, you know there was a lot there to keep me reading.
May 6, 2022
Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking the link below. It is also posted in full.
https://novelsalive.com/2022/05/06/st...
I’m so glad to see that Wild at Heart by Stacy Gold is the first book in the Wild Love series. I’ve previously read Ms. Gold’s Emerald Mountain series and enjoy her writing.
Wild at Heart held my interest from the first page to the last, even though I'm not the outdoorsy type. But I could visualize the hikes and the scenery with such vivid descriptions penned by the author as we are in the Seattle area.
Jules and Evan cross paths while hiking, and she saves him more than once as they keep running into each other in the mountains. He's hiking on a whim due to his life back home in Boston, but it's probably the best thing he's ever done for himself, although his parents don't think so. She's hardcore and loves going solo into the mountains.
There are twists and turns to the story and Jules freaking out when she feels she and Evan get too close. They seem to balance each other, but that doesn't make a difference to Jules due to her history with guys. I enjoyed watching them work through their friendship, or is it more?
There were some steamy moments along with sweet ones. I liked Jules's relationship with her two best friends and Evan's with his brother. The ending took a while to get to, but it was sweet, and there was nice closure. I was happy to see the excerpts from the series' following two books.
Wild at Heart is a fun romp in the wilderness with stunning vistas and witty dialogue. I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
https://novelsalive.com/2022/05/06/st...
I’m so glad to see that Wild at Heart by Stacy Gold is the first book in the Wild Love series. I’ve previously read Ms. Gold’s Emerald Mountain series and enjoy her writing.
Wild at Heart held my interest from the first page to the last, even though I'm not the outdoorsy type. But I could visualize the hikes and the scenery with such vivid descriptions penned by the author as we are in the Seattle area.
Jules and Evan cross paths while hiking, and she saves him more than once as they keep running into each other in the mountains. He's hiking on a whim due to his life back home in Boston, but it's probably the best thing he's ever done for himself, although his parents don't think so. She's hardcore and loves going solo into the mountains.
There are twists and turns to the story and Jules freaking out when she feels she and Evan get too close. They seem to balance each other, but that doesn't make a difference to Jules due to her history with guys. I enjoyed watching them work through their friendship, or is it more?
There were some steamy moments along with sweet ones. I liked Jules's relationship with her two best friends and Evan's with his brother. The ending took a while to get to, but it was sweet, and there was nice closure. I was happy to see the excerpts from the series' following two books.
Wild at Heart is a fun romp in the wilderness with stunning vistas and witty dialogue. I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
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