Wild

4.5 of 5 stars I adored WILD by M. Malone and Nana Malone. Talia Hamilton has always been the shy girl who lived in her big brother’s shadow. Now that she is away at college she plans to let loose. Her first night she has an amazing kiss with an older boy from her high school that did not recognize her, Cage Ward. Cage can’t get the girl he met at the club out of his mind. He’s shocked when he checks in on his best friend’s little sister and discovers his mystery girl. This contemporary romance is suitable for new adult audience. It takes place at NYU. WILD is a fun and heartwarming read. I loved both Talia and Cage. They are relatable characters that had a lot of depth. They both have their issues and develop throughout the story. They have obstacles and misunderstandings to overcome. They were friends in high school, but nothing would have ever happened then because of Talia’s older brother, Trevor. However, now they are in college, and Trevor isn’t there. WILD is skillfully written and easy to read. It had a cute ending. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

Never promise to keep an eye on your best friend's little sister if you haven't seen her for a few years. His eyes aren't the only thing Cage wanted to keep on Talia. He'd thought she was hot when she was way too young for him to think of her at all. Now she was starting college a couple years behind him. He didn't even recognize her the first time they met again on the dance floor. She didn't want to be in his arms, well, she did but she didn't want to want to be there. He'd broken her heart years ago and she was determined to experience all college had to offer. No more wallflower. Wanting to stay away. Wanting to have her. Not wanting to break the friend code with the little sister makes for a fun read. The Malones have done it again and given their readers a fun romance with just the right amount of obstacles, plenty of steam, characters you've gotta love, and even a visit from some old friends. Reviewed for Words Turn Me On

Cage is enchanted by the now-grown-up Talia. I loved watching Talia stand up for herself, and Cage's gradual eye-opening realization of what Talia means to him was beautifully done. These two have an intense, fiery chemistry that is only heightened by their history. Talia really makes him work for it, especially after her showdown with the crazy ex. There wasn't as much humor in this one as in the first book, but there was plenty of steamy action. Their HEA was sweet and I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.