First was The Wild Ones. Now, the next book in M. Leighton's Wild Ones series...
How far will a good girl go for the bad boy she loves?
Laney Holt is a preacher’s daughter. A good girl. Her only goal was to get married, have babies, and live happily ever after, just like her parents. Only that didn’t happen. The two people closest to her betrayed her, and Laney’s dreams came crashing down. Now she’s left with an empty space she doesn’t know how to fill. Until she meets Jake Theopolis, a daredevil with a death wish who has heartbreaker written all over him.
Jake has no interest in thinking beyond the here and now. All he wants out of life is the next rush, the next “feel-good” thing to keep his mind off the pain of his past. His latest rush? Showing Laney there’s more to life than being a good girl—and that going bad can be so much fun. Her only concern now is how she can ever hope to satisfy the wild side of a boy like Jake. She’s looking forward to trying. And so is Jake.
If you love The Wild Ones, you'll be just as wild for M. Leighton's Bad Boys series which includes Down to You, Up to Me, and Everything for Us.
New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author, M. Leighton, is a native of Ohio. She relocated to the warmer climates of the South, where she can be near the water all summer and miss the snow all winter. Possessed of an overactive imagination from early in her childhood, Michelle finally found an acceptable outlet for her fantastical visions: literary fiction. Having written over a dozen novels, these days Michelle enjoys letting her mind wander to more romantic settings with sexy Southern guys, much like the one she married and the ones you'll find in her latest books. When her thoughts aren't roaming in that direction, she'll be riding wild horses, skiing the slopes of Aspen or scuba diving with a hot rock star, all without leaving the cozy comfort of her office.
About Michelle: I love coffee and chocolate, even more so when they are combined. I'm convinced that one day they could be the basis for world peace. I also love the color red and am seriously considering dying my hair.
I always struggle with how to rate lady porn. Does giving a book within this category 4stars mean that it's a great work of fiction? Or does it mean it achieved it's desired effect pretty spectacularly? I'm going with the later.
I will state for posterity, this story is ridiculous. But lets be real, we don't read this garbage for the plot. Having said that, I do need my smut to have somewhat of a plausible and preferably concise plot in order to appreciate the smut scene(s).
This book possessed all my preferred elements. Seemingly sexually appealing guy: Check Somewhat believable scenario: Check (no cable guy fantasy gone wrong here ladies, this one is a fireman) Satisfying steam: Check, check and check Quick read:Check
Would I want to punch a guy like this in the face if he were real? absolutely. I don't like smug bastards in real life. But in lady porn, they get things done. :)
Some Like it Wild is a sweet, short and easy read.
Laney is a preacher’s daughter and a good girl. Before Laney went to college, she had a brief encounter with Jake, it was very short, but enough to last an impression on both. Years later, she catches her fiancé cheating and she leaves him. Laney goes back to town and help Jake with his family estate. Jake doesn’t do relationships and just wants to get into Laney’s pants, but the more they get to know each other, they realize there is an attraction they can’t control.
I have mixed feelings for Some Like it Wild.
The Things that worked for me
I liked how short and sweet the book is. I’m a huge fan of easy read books and there was too much drama and none that make me want to pull my hair out.
I liked the story line. I always like a sweet girl meeting the bad boy. Who doesn’t want to be corrupted by a bad boy?
I also like how there wasn’t any flash backs. Yes, Jake and Laney did have a small moment in the past, but it wasn’t drawn out and it was a very adorable opening.
There was enough tension and drama to keep me interested and a slight love triangle (not really) with Laney’s fiancé showing up in the picture.
The steam and chemistry between Laney and Jake was nice. There was a nice slow build up with enough tension to keep me going and interested.
The Things that did not work for me
I found tension between Laney and her father very difficult. Laney never explained why she broke up with her ex and so her father keeps on telling Laney to go back to her ex fiancé. What’s the big deal in saying, “hey dad, my ex cheated on me, that is why I don’t want to get back with him”.
I also didn’t like the fact that the father didn’t like Jake because he was a bad boy. Okay, sure I’ve read a lot of books where the dad doesn’t like the Hero, but I wanted something different. Even when Jake tries to does good, somehow it seems like the bad is always is his fault. I didn’t get it and it frustrated me.
Overall, the read was sweet and good. I did have issues with the dad, but I enjoyed Laney and Jake’s story. If you were a fan of the series, I recommend you continuing.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
M Leighton has yet to write a book in which I disliked the characters. Laney Holt is the small town good girl..the stereotypical preachers daughter. Wanting so desperately to always do the right thing, but deep down feeling the temptation to just bust out of her comfort zone. Jake Theopolis is way too far out of that comfort zone as the older,more "seasoned" town bad boy. One sweet yet daring kiss as teens was never forgotten and now time and circumstances have put them back in each other's lives!
A bit on the "footloose" side is things, lol, as Laney finds her freedom and deepest desires on the forbidden local sinner! I will say holy hell is Jake pure sex on a stick...flirty smiles, cocky banter and sex talk that melted my kindle! Good for you miss Laney for blushing just slightly then jumping on that ride!
Overall, this was a quick read for me. I still think Trick owns this series and for a Leighton book, I was surprised that this read had more of a true romance feel. Jake and Laney had a nice relationship developing without much angst or drama. I was shocked that i was pushing past the 40% mark and no orchard romping! Of course I'm not sure anything can top Jenna and Rusty's mechanical bull ride!
I can't explain how great this book is, you need to read it for yourself. Read It. It is so good. Her writing captivates me and how she manages to bring chemistry between to characters to life, it's just brilliant. I could feel the story between Laney and Jake and o what a great story. She has the ability to take a simple formula of boy meets girls and turn it extraordinary. This women delivers! A Must Read.
Preacher's daughter, hot peach farmer dude that is chalk full of sexual innuendoes. Friends with benefits that turns into more. Short, sweet, and hot. Good enough for me :)
Initial Thoughts: 3.5 stars. This is a fun, light romance about a goody-goody preacher's daughter Laney and her bad boy boyfriend Jake. This book also included Wild Child which is the story of Jake's sister Jenna and her love, Rusty.
The Review: Take one shy preacher’s daughter who just wants to marry and settle down. Add one hunky bad boy fireman. Watch the sparks fly…
New Adult romances are touch and go for me. On one hand, it’s kind of fun to relive that first love, the novelty of all those wonderful firsts. On the other hand, the New Adult genre is full of angst which causes that “been there, done that, got the t-shirt” reaction for me.
I did enjoy Some Like it Wild. It was a light, fun, and quick read. I liked the two main characters. Laney led such a sheltered life and I loved watching her grow and mature. Laney’s back in town after breaking off her engagement to longtime boyfriend Shane after she caught him cheating with her best friend. Jake is back in town after the death of his father. All his life, Jake has been treated as the bad boy, though we’re not really told why. Jake believes he is unlovable and therefore avoids any kind of relationship. The two meet when Laney is sent to evaluate the market value of Jake’s father’s estate. The two are attracted to each other.
It must be hard to be the preacher’s daughter. So many expectations. Breaking off an engagement is unheard of in Laney’s family and they begin to meddle in her affairs. It didn't help that they absolutely love Shane and despise Jake and are unaware of the circumstances of Laney’s breakup. To make matters worse, Shane is a master manipulator.
Jake shows Laney a whole new life. He shows her how to be adventurous, how to take chances, and to try new things. They share some wonderful moments together and fall in love. At the same time Laney grows and matures and is finally able to stand up to her overbearing father.
Some Like it Wild was an enjoyable read for me. My review copy also contained Wild Child, which takes place between the first and second book and is the story of Jake’s sister Jenna and her romantic interest Rusty. Note that while Some Like it Wild is the second book in the series it can be read as a stand-alone book. You will want to go back and read the other books in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group Berkley for a review copy of this book.
Okay, so y'all know by now, I, Lauren am A Minxy-a-holic!!! I Love Michelle Leighton's books! I have been addicted to her books since Amazon recommended me to read her book "Down To You" back in 2012!
So this is Book#2 in the Wild Child Series. If you have not read the 1st Book "The Wild Ones", go read it!
We got introduced to Jake Theopolis who is known as the bad boy who can't be settled down with anyone.
Laney Holt is a preachers daughter who is judged as being a good girl who won't do any wrong.
But meeting Jake, she totally sees what others don't. He is more than what everyone thinks.
This story is about a two people who both have their separate issues of trusting and loving others. Their meeting each other brings out things in them that they never thought could happen, which is learning to love, trust, and believe in themselves.
Michelle Leighton knows how to get her readers to get hooked into her characters. Her description of scenes make you feel like your there. She visually puts your mind into her world she created. You don't want to leave her world once your in it. You want to be part of it.
Jake & Laney relationship had me laugh, cry, want to throw things. I love when you can read a story and it gives you an emotional roller coaster of emotions! Those are the best reads.
My favorite quote from Jake:
Soooo many scenes I loved in this book but the one that will now always be stuck in my head it this one below.
Marshmallows
at a campfire will never look or be eaten the same way again!
Seriously my favorite part that totally surprised me by Michelle! Damn Jake is just sooo freaking hot!! Like Campfire hot!!! You want to roast your marshmallows with him! Trust me
Um, did you survive that picture above???
Go read this book and get ready for more this summer when the next book in this series comes to make your summer even hotter!
I have read quite a few of Michelle’s books now and I can easily say that this is my favorite of her series. I love them all, but there is just something really special about this series for me. I love the setting and the characters; the story is engaging and addictive and you can’t forget the steamy moments. I can always count on Michelle to deliver a great read.
Laney is a good girl through and through, nothing less is acceptable of the preacher’s daughter. She has lived a very sheltered life and always thought she knew what she wanted. When something happens to make her question everything she thought she knew, Laney is ready for a change and ready to be a bit daring. What I liked about Laney is that she is relatable. Everyone has had a time where they just didn’t know who they were and had to figure that out and that is exactly what we get to see Laney do.
Jake is a bad boy through and through and he has earned that reputation. Jake is unapologetic and what you see is what you get. He lives life the way he wants and doesn’t care what others think. He is also absolutely adorable and charming and that makes him so easy to love. He made me laugh on numerous occasions and that is one of my favorite traits. However, Jake is the way he is for a reason and well it broke my heart. Oh did I mention Jake is a firefighter?
Now I know what you are probably thinking; another good girl and bad boy story? And I’ll be honest, yes that is exactly what you get. But there is also a reason this trope has lasted so long because when it is done right it works and Michelle does it right! I for one never get tired of a bad boy. But what I love about Jake is that he never takes it to a “bad” level I am uncomfortable with. He is still a good person, just with a bit of a reckless streak. I loved watching him get Laney to open up and I loved watching Laney make Jake see that love isn’t a bad thing.
The chemistry between Jake and Laney is amazing. Those two just clicked and worked well together. They balanced each other perfectly and the chemistry between them led to some very steamy moments. But while the steamy scenes were wonderful they didn’t overshadow the story. The most important aspect was always their relationship and their character growth first and foremost, the steam was just another factor. It was the perfect balance and I love that they story wasn’t overtake by the schmexy.
I have to take a second to mention Jenna because I loved seeing her again! Girl always cracks me up. Even though we don’t see much of her, what we did see made me laugh out loud! I also liked meeting Jet, the hero of the next book in the series. I can tell already that we are going to get along wonderfully. I’ve been looking forward to meeting him since I saw that lovely tattoo on the cover of There’s Wild Then There’s You and damn I can’t wait much longer!
Some Like It Wild was another great addition to The Wild Ones series. It was sassy, fun, sexy, sweet, addictive, and wild. And just to give you one more little push to read this one I will leave you with one word: marshmallows.
I've been so excited about reading Some Like It Wild. I absolutely love M. Leighton's books, and Some Like It Wild has quickly become one of my favorites. M. Leighton has such a gift for creating a story that not only will captivate you, but packing it with lots of humor, heartbreak, a little angst, and enough steam to power a freight train, which she fully demonstrates yet again in Some Like It Wild.
After reading the prologue some time ago, I knew I was going to love Jake and Lane's story. Jake is Jenna's brother. Jenna being one of the main characters in Wild Child. After the first chapter, I knew Jake was going to be one of my favorite among the A-List of hot Alphas M. Leighton has brought to life in the novels she has written. Jake is the bad boy, he doesn't do love or relationships, and lives life to its fullest, doing so somewhat dangerously. He loves a challenge and he makes it clear from the get go that "forbidden fruit" is one of his favorite things. Well, "forbidden fruit" has a name and it just happens to be Laney Holt. Laney is the classic good girl. She's a preacher's daughter and has always tried to do the right thing, but after being betrayed by her fiance and her best friend, she definitely isn't looking for another relationship. One thing she's never forgotten, however, is Jake Theopolis. Something about him touches that flame that has been buried deep within her, quenched by her desire to do good and be what's expected of her and while Jake is a firefighter, the flame inside Laney is one he wants to fan rather than put out, and fan it he does. Trust me, you will need a fan yourself when you see how hot things get between them.
I loved Jake's character, everything about him is the kind of book boyfriend that draws me in, and when his secret regarding what has happened to him to cause him to feel the way he does is revealed, it is heartbreaking and made me love him even more. I liked Laney also, and as the book progressed she grew on me even more. While the romance is off the charts hot, the story itself is also wonderful and keeps you turning the pages following the road map M. Leighton has provided that will take you one a wild and exciting ride. If you are a contemporary romance fan then you will definitely want to read Some Like It Wild and fall in love with the "hot heart-breaker" that your own heart will both break for and fall in love with in the process. For M. Leighton fans, it is a definite must read, and for those of you who haven't read her books yet, this is a great one to start with.
3.5 I love M. Leighton and her brand of passionate romances that make me feel the characters emotions, smile and swoon and Some Like it Wild did all that. This is the second book in the Wild Ones series and can be read as a standalone. Mini review: girl meets bad-boy who’s really a good guy, steamy, heartwarming, fun and romantic.
Acrostic Poem review of Some Like It Wild
Steamy, sexy, satisfying
Oh I love when a bad-boy like Jake, is really a good guy underneath all those troubles. He is adventurous, takes risks but also cares deeply as we soon discover
My oh my, I giggled, swooned, got angry and fell in love
Love. Laney has been burned, and Jake deep down doesn’t think he is lovable
I wanted Laney to open up more, especially with her parents; I rooted for Jake and his family’s farm
Kissing led to heat and I swooned, Leighton knows how to write passionate scenes
Enough family meddling already! Controlling parents, flawed father’s who set their sons up to fail, greedy no good aunties..Gah!
I really liked both Jake and Laney and loved watching them interact and grow as individuals. They made each other better
Twists and turns kept me on edge
Wild, fun, laughter
I loved how the romance progressed slowly and the heat burned and curled the pages
Love, laughter, lessons
Drama, we get a little and some angst in the form of Laney’s ex-boyfriend Shane, and from family members but it wasn’t over done and kept me flipping the pages for my happily ever-after.
Some Like It Wild was a slow-building, hot and steamy romance that kept me engaged. The ending felt a little abrupt, and I wish there had been an epilogue or something. There’s Wild, Then There’s You is the third book in the series and will release in June of 2014. All of the books in the Wild Ones series can be read as standalone.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for unbiased review that originally published @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Some Like It Wild is the first book I read by Michelle Leighton, and I wanted to give it a shout out because it was a book I truly enjoyed reading. Who doesn’t enjoy reading about the “bad boy” getting together with the “good girl”? You can read more at http://bookishtemptations.com/2014/04...
Questo romanzo è il secondo della Wild series. Entrambi i libri sono autoconclusivi. Il primo libro “Averti è impossibile” parlava di Cami e Trick, con questo secondo romanzo cambiamo scena e personaggi. I protagonisti sono Laney, figlia del predicatore della città, e Jake, rubacuori con una pessima reputazione. I due si incontrano per la prima volta quando Laney e una sua amica sono di turno alla bancarella dei baci della fiera del paese. Laney è la tipica brava ragazza, assennata, diligente, l’esatto opposto di Jake. Tra i due scatta subito l’interesse, ma si rincontreranno solo anni dopo. Laney adesso è laureata, e dopo aver scoperto il suo fidanzato a letto con la sua migliore amica, accetta un impiego nella sua vecchia città. Caso vuole che il suo lavoro di consulente consista nell’aiutare Jake a valutare la proprietà di famiglia ereditata alla morte del padre. Jake, in questi anni, non sembra cambiato: ancora si tiene lontano dalle relazioni importanti, ma quando Laney rientra nella sua vita sarà difficile per lui rinunciare a lei. Se Laney ha vissuto una vita tranquilla e abbastanza serena, nonostante le restrizioni imposte dal padre, uomo di chiesa, Jake non può dire di aver fatto altrettanto. Il giovane ha infatti un passato doloroso, dovuto alla malattia della madre e all’odio nei suoi confronti da parte del padre quando questa viene a mancare. Dopo la scomparsa di sua madre, infatti, decide di non amare più nessuno, tanto che anche il rapporto con la sorella minore è un po’ freddo. Quando Laney, dopo una lite con il padre riguardo alla rottura col suo fidanzato, si trasferisce a casa di Jake, tra i due, vista la forte attrazione, comincia una specie di convivenza dove la regola è niente amore, solo sesso senza impegno. Ovviamente la nostra Laney ci mette poco a partire per la tangente. Insomma, Jake è proprio un bel ragazzone! Gestisce la tenuta e il frutteto e come secondo lavoro fa il pompiere. Nonostante tutte le proroghe chieste da Laney il lavoro va concludendosi e così anche il loro rapporto. Un incidente mentre sono in campeggio chiude definitivamente la relazione, infatti dopo aver portato Laney in ospedale ed aver avuto un faccia a faccia col padre di lei, Jake sparisce. Ma ormai Laney gli è entrata nel sangue. Per non svelare il finale vi dico solo che ci sarà un avvenimento che porterà i due al loro lieto fine. La mia personale opinione riguardo al libro, comunque, è: carino. Sarà che sono in overdose da romance in questo periodo ma, nonostante questa sia stata una lettura abbastanza piacevole, la storia mi è risultata un po’ già vista… lei dolce, carina, pura. Lui? Bello, sexy, playboy, allergico alle relazioni serie e con un passato doloroso alle spalle. Il libro è una lettura piacevole e leggera, ma i personaggi sembrano fatti tutti con lo stampino, soprattutto quelli maschili. Detto questo, lo consiglio a chi cerca una storia d’amore con un pizzico di pepe, leggera e scorrevole.
Why do good girls like bad boys? Because they're HOT and SEXY and DANGEROUS! Let's not forget, deep down, we think we can change them. Can we? Laney Holt wants to believe she can change Jake Theopolis. Is he really as bad as people say? Should she stay away? Can she stay away? I know I couldn't. He may be "bad", but, he's honest, just not with himself, and damaged. He's also an adrenaline junkie and a firefighter.
WOW!!! I didn't think it could be possible, but I think I love Jake more than I love Trick. I know, I know. But there's something about the bad boy with the heart of gold that draws me in every time. And author Michelle Leighton caught me, hook, line and sinker! She writes in dual POV, which is my favorite because I like being in each of the characters' minds. I think that this allows the reader to know the characters better. It doesn't work for every story but it does for this one.
"I don't want to do wild things. All I've ever really wanted out of life was to find the perfect man to sweep me off my feet, get married, have a family, and live happily ever after. And I don't have to get wild to achieve any of those things." ~ Laney Holt
Laney, who is the preacher's daughter, s a good girl. Always has been, regardless of how wild her best friend is. Laney meets Jake the summer of her 18th birthday. Sparks fly and she is flustered, but she is a good girl and has a plan. Bad boys don't fit into her plan. Jake is a very bad boy. Or so says his reputation. She dismisses what she feels, even after their hot interlude at the Fair kissing booth. Plan in tact, Laney goes off to pursue her dreams of the perfect life. Until she comes face to face with the cliché that life happens when you're busy making plans. Needing to get away, she takes an assignment for her law firm that brings her home, and right back into Jake's life. It's been 4 years since that kiss. The attraction is still there, for both of them. However, Laney is hell bent on denying it, which is like waving a red flag in front of a bull. Jake wants her and he always gets what he wants. But he wants her to admit she wants him, too. And he knows just what to do to make that happen.
"I've got a thing for forbidden fruit, Laney Holt. Consider yourself warned." ~ Jake Theopolis
Jake has closed himself off to love for reasons known only to himself. He likes to live on the edge. Take things to the extreme. He lives for the next "make me feel alive" thing. Avoiding commitments and attachments, he decides that Laney needs to live a little. He wants to show her that being bad can be good and that some like it wild for a reason.
This book, this story, these characters exceeded my expectations. Don't get me wrong. I had no doubt it would be great, after all, it's written by Michelle Leighton. But, it had The Wild Ones to live up to, not an easy act to follow. However, Some Like It Wild does not disappoint. It captivates, intrigues, excites and keeps you wanting more. There were moments and characters I wanted to smack upside the head. I know drastic times call for drastic measures, but the character of Tori, Laney's BFF pissed me off. Yes, she sort of redeems herself but still. And don't even get me started on Mr. Perfect, Shane. Laney's walk on the wild side is brought on partly due to feelings of hurt and betrayal. In Jake, she sees the opportunity to take a risk, deviate from her plan but still keep her heart safe because there's no danger of falling for him. Or is there?
"If I'm being honest, I know she's developing feelings for me. I should've put a stop to this a couple of weeks ago when I started suspecting. But the truth is, I didn't want to. Still don't Why? Because I'm a selfish bastard." ~ Jake Theopolis
Jake tries to act as if he is indifferent towards Laney. But that's just it, he's acting. Fooling himself. Laney and Jake are having a wonderful time. He loves that she is coming out of her shell and letting loose, enjoying the thrills he has to offer. He likes that he's the one that is awakening her wild side. But every time she tries to get closer, he shuts down. Jake, Jake...why are you making me crazy?!?
"We are hands and lips. We are mouths and tongues. We are passion and desperation. And it is beautiful."
The story continues and the plot flows beautifully. I feel like I know the characters. When Jenna makes an appearance to visit Jake, her brother,it was like an old friend came home. Laney's parents, especially her father, obviously do not approve but Laney has become more independent and confident, getting to know herself the more time she spends with Jake. He also begins to face feelings he has tried to keep buried and avoid, until Laney. And when they finally get together, insanely scorching hot!!We're talking 4 alarm fire!!! Can I say that I have never wanted to go camping so bad in my life???? And that's big because to me, a 3 star hotel is roughing it. But a tent, sleeping bag and Jake in the middle of nowhere? Sign me up!!
The last third of the book had me so anxious. My heart broke for Jake when his secret comes out. So many things happen to get in their way. I wanted to scream. I think I did. This book is a fantastic thrill ride. Like free falling and hoping not to crash land. Ms. Leighton does not let me down. This story has it all and then some. Michelle Leighton, you hit it out of the park with this one!! Amazing!! Cannot wait for more! Looking forward to There's Wild, Then There's You!
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book directly from the author. I was not paid to read or review this book. All opinions are my own, and I was not influenced by anyone or anything.
All right Ladies!! You need to get you mitts on this one for one reason alone… FIREMAN! Yep, Jake is a hot fireman, who has returned home to settle some family business. The girl who turns up to do the paperwork at the house is Laney, a girl he kissed four years ago, who happens to be the preachers daughter. They are both from two different worlds, but Jake convinces Laney to let her hair down and do things she wouldn’t normally do. And for Jake, well, he just wants Laney under him!!
Laney is back in Greenfield for work, but it is a good break for her and the betrayal that she has had to deal with in Summerton. The two people she was closest to did something that bought all her dreams of family and love crashing down. Being back in Greenfield means spending time with her parents and they cannot accept her decisions and try to manipulate her into doing things their way. She is starting to stand up for herself and I was glad she did because she is an adult who can make her own decisions. Laney started to open up and let her hair down and it was nice to see this carefree Laney.
Jake has issues from when he was young and it was heartbreaking to see why he has kept his feelings bottled up. He really is a caring guy, but he prefers to keep everyone at a distance. But somehow, Laney gets under his skin and he wants to be a better person and his dreams are changing. Jake sure keeps Laney on her toes and I love how he turns everything she says into something flirtatious or just naughty!! I had a sore finger from highlighting all his witty comments and I just couldn’t get enough of him myself!!
What starts as no strings, quickly turns into something more, without either character realising it. It gets hot and steamy and we even get a sizzling tour of the fire station *fist pump*. They both spend a lot of time outdoors doing all sorts of activities to get their next adrenaline rush!! I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and could see that they really do have a lot in common.
It is no secret that I love M. Leighton’s writing and this book was a great instalment in the Wild Ones series. There is plenty of humour thrown in the book that had me giggling and the bedroom scenes happen more often than not, outside of the bedroom. The characters have great chemistry and know each other better than anyone else. The dual POV was great too and I loved seeing Jake’s thoughts and all the dirty things he thinks! I cannot wait for the next book in the series after the little sneak peek at the end!
First Impression: Going into this one, Jake was a bit of a mystery and I knew nothing about Laney, but I love the cover! It fits the series well and I couldn't wait to read this story!
The story: Laney is the quintessential preachers daughter. She's always walked a straight line and strives hard to please her parents. But, she's never really taken any risks. She's never really had any kind of adventure. Plus, she's coming out of a relationship that ended badly. Then, Jake Theopolis enters the picture and she gets a taste of the wild side.
Jake has always been an adrenaline junkie. He's a Fire Fighter, but he also seeks out activities that will give him that certain high/rush he's searching for. Getting involved with Laney wasn't really part of his long term plan. He thought he could have a little bit of fun with her and then take off again. He didn't expect to fall in love with her though. But, they have a few big obstacles to overcome; her parents and her ex, who has ties to Jake's family in a not so great way.
The characters: Jake is a bit dark and broody. Of course, I liked him right away. He's certainly sexy and I love his forward ways. But what I really loved getting to see in this book was more about the Theopolis family history. Jake's relationship with their father was complicated. He's carried a lot of guilt about their mother's death with him for many years and now that their dad has passed, he wants to leave some of those memories behind. He uses his activities as an escape. But when he meets Laney, he thinks he might just want to stay and make a life in his family home. I loved how Laney helped to "soften" him up a bit.
I liked Laney, but it wasn't until she loosened up a bit and started to have some fun with Jake that I really started liking her. I also really admired the fact that she wanted to try new things and she realized how her life was planned out wasn't the only way to live. In the end, I love the relationship that Laney and Jake found. It was fun, sexy and definitely exciting!
I have to mention my girl Jenna. I loved seeing her relationship with Jake. I was glad that they were able to really come together and begin to heal from their father's death. Plus, Jenna just makes everything fun!
Overall: I loved it! Leighton is always a go-to author for me and I love this series, so I had expected I would enjoy this book too. I think Jake and Laney's story is a great addition to the series! Check it out if you love Mature NA Contemporaries.
I picked this book up after I read M. Leighton's All the Pretty Poses, which was a little darker and intense, so this book was THE PERFECT NEXT BOOK FOR ME!!! I needed light, fluffy, pretty sexy romance, lol if there is such a thing, but this is what Some Like it Wild was for me. Don't get me wrong, it is still HOT and STEAMY and WONDERFUL!!!
Jake Theopolis is just a sexy sexy man, I love how he knows what he wants, doesn't care what anyone thinks of him, oozes sex appeal, and is actually a really good guy, with the bad boy persona. Laney Holt is sweet, innocent and about to get her world rocked, not by Jake, well not yet, but with a slap in the face that is her current boyfriend.
Many summers ago these two met, a flame was lit & I will never think of peaches the same, EVER... SIGH!!! A few years have passed and Laney finds herself back in her home town. One escaping her current situation in which she hasn't told her family the real reason she was home for the summer. Two she took on a case load with work to keep herself busy. She just doesn't realize how busy she will be when she finds out the tenant who she will be working with, thinks she's the sweetest peach he has ever tasted.
The summer that turns into a learning experience for both Laney and Jake also turns into a beautiful romance. Even though Jake thinks Laney is just a summer distraction, he learns quickly that once he has had a taste, he is hooked! Their story unfolds beautifully in front of us, I laughed so hard in this book. Especially when Laney runs out of gas stalking Jake at the fire station, but I guess I would too if my crush looked like him.
Laney learns a lot from Jake and really opens up and blossoms. She really was lost and found herself with Jakes help. He is not the person she thought he was. He is very caring and sweet and most of all he truly cares for her and wants her to enjoy life to the fullest. One of my ABSOLUTE favorite scenes from the book is when they climb up the rocks and swing on the tire swing together, stealing a moment for just them, it was breath taking. Also, the realization of this is more than what they thought... A LOT MORE.... it gets HOT!!!
Everyone loves a good summer love book and that is exactly what this book is, it was thrilling, exciting, and plan as DAY GOOD!!! I could re-read this one a few times, but all M. Leighton books leave me feeling that way. She is getting better with each book she writes. I hope you enjoy this read as much as I did. I was smiling for days after reading this!!!
All you have to say to me is M. Leighton and I'm ready to read! I so loved The Wild Ones and was super excited to read this one.
The Characters...
I immediately loved Jake. He had some secrets and when I found out his secrets I loved him even more. He's clearly the bad boy and everyone knows it. The whole town sees him that way but there is so much more to him than his reputation. He's sexy, patient and a great guy. Believing it's better if he doesn't love anyone and that he's unlovable, he's about as loveable as a bad boy can be. It's for sure I fell hard for the boy.
It took me longer with Laney. She's uptight and worried about following all the rules at first. Having never really given herself permission to figure out who she is, I wasn't a fan. But once she lets loose a little spending time with Jake then she decides who she really is. That's when I fell for her. Love her too.
The Story...
I love it when my opinion changes about a character. That means they did some growing in the story and that's important to me. And this story has both of these characters growing. Laney is figuring out who she is as an adult. Jake is figuring out who he is a person. Loved it.
As is normally true with M. Leighton books, there were some curve balls. I love it when there's a surprise for me. This author is good at that. I can usually bet I'll like the ending but I'm never quite sure how we're going to get there. That's something I really enjoy. I can read without fear but still be surprised and emotional along the way.
Could I Put It Down...
Did I want to? Absolutely not. Not short, but this story flew by. I did read it over a couple nights. No choice since I have to sleep or I'm a cranky teacher.
In The End...
Any fan of this author will want this book for sure. If you haven't read M. Leighton before and you love a great romance that is steamy with some depth, then this is the author and the book for you.
Although this book is Book 2 in the Wild Ones series, it can be read as a standalone. Laney is a preacher's daughter, raised in a strict and prim-and-proper household and is the quintessential "good girl." What I liked about her character and her family and friends is that there were no caricatures and no "black and white" personalities; everyone was very human, and certainly made mistakes along the way.
Laney has a chance meeting with the sexy, gorgeous and irresistible Jake Theopolis. She doesn't think she'll ever see him again, but their paths cross again. Although Jake is labeled as a "bad boy", it's really just a label, and there is a lot more to him than meets the eye.
No one writes a dirrrrrty scene quite like Ms. Leighton and Some Like It Wild is no exception! But there is actually a very interesting (and bittersweet) back story behind both of the main characters, and this book took somewhat of a surprising turn when Jake's story is revealed. I love Jake!
"She needed me in order to see who she really was, to see how beautiful and perfect she was deep down, past all the onward appearances and polite ways. What she never knew was that I saw it all along She was always perfect to me, inside and out." ~ Jake
Some Like It Wild is hot, sweet and passionate story and filled with the Southern setting and characters I have grown to love from this author. If you are looking for a sexy, swoony story that you can read in one sitting, this book is for you. But be prepared to fall in love with Jake! I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series, "There's Wild, Then There's You", which releases June 3rd.
(Book provided by the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.)
So I dont think Ill ever see roasted marshmallows the same again. Maybe peaches too. I actually had no real idea about the characters in this one, I just found the synopsis interesting, with the preacher's daughter and a guy with a rep. Jake was a mystery in the beginning, obviously charming and well liked by his peers, parents maybe not so. As the story went on I wondered about his past and the guilt he obviously has, anger and maybe resentment for how people see his family. I could see he was broody, it seemed as though Laney brought out a more playful and softer side out.
Laney I dont know what I thought her in the start, yes she was the good girl tried to please her parents, tried to do everything a certain way. I guess her uptight ways were brought on by the way her parents still tried to get her to think their ways and mold her, even when it came to the ex. But as she came out of her shell, you could see she was full of life and fun. Jake and Laney together were definitely sweet, a lot of adventure, full of heat. They definitely had a cute banter and interacted well, despite their differences at first. I did like the way they both found their way and developed in the story.
Michelle Leighton always has such fun and engaging stories that are easy to get into, her characters witty, charming and lots of sexy. This series in particular has been nice mix of mature NA and contemporary in the country setting. I cant wait for whats next!
review to com This is one book I recommend for you to read ASAP!! It has everything you want in an adult, romance and much more read. I was hooked form the start; I read this book in one day! Leighton makes me fall in love and I fell hard for Laney and Jake.
Two people from tow different worlds coming together to help each other through life is awesome!!! Laney is the daughter of a preacher and her life now that she is adult is all her parents’ want for her; happiness, marriage a life of perfection and she is with the perfect man for that or she thought so. Then her world comes rolling down on her and she needs to get out, move on find something MORE. She needs to find someone to take hold of her and never let go but let he live and love free.
Jake the boy she remembers form high school, a little older but all the girls wanted him. She on the other hand maybe fantasied about him but he was a bad boy she was a good girl and that just did not fit.
After Laney and Jake make good girl and bad boy look GOOD together you just never know what’s going to happen. Some Like It Wild held up to its title never disappointing and always, always making you want more and wishing you could be Laney all throughout the book. It was just a great story and so well written.
Again I am having a hard time writing a review for a book that you cant express the world to tell you how good it is. So I hope you can take the little I gave and GO GET THIS ONE!!!
M Leighton has yet to write a book in which I disliked the characters. It is in this Wild Ones series that she introduced Trick and had women swooning for his sweet and sexy southern charm. Knowing that this series was moving forward and bringing more southern sex appeal had me at the peak of anticipation.
Some Like it Wild introduces Laney Holt, the small town good girl. She is the stereotypical preacher’s daughter looking for a good life with a good man all while wanting so desperately to always do the right thing. It does seem however that deep down she may be having some feelings of wanting just bust out of her comfort zone. Jake Theopolis is way too far out of that comfort zone as the older, more "seasoned" town bad boy. But one hot summer night, a chance to steal some peach wine, and a kissing booth sets the scene for good to meet bad. Too bad life puts Laney and Jake on different paths to success, never to have that second kiss.
This is such a sweet love story about Laney, the good girl preacher's daughter and Jake, the wild one the town sees as a bad boy. Laney wanted it all. The marriage, kids . . HEA. It did not seem like she was going to get that until Jake. Jake is wild but only because he does things that takes him to the edge and he gets Laney to go to the edge with him. She loves it. Not knowing that they would be able to last because of his past, he did not think that he could be loved or love anyone. He was afraid to love. Laney changed that in him. Together they complete each other where wholes had resided in their hearts for so long. This was a beautiful story line. I love the characters in this series so far and can't wait to get the last book. Great read.
I didn't rate this novel until I read the first one as well to give it a fair chance. In reading both back to back, I think the reader will see a formula and quite a bit of repetition. The author seems to like "blushing" girls as that seemed to run through both books. Both girls are somewhat naive and inexperienced whereas the men are uber confident and sex-driven. The formula itself isn't the worst, but the way it was written came off as cheesy to me. The game that these guys have is just over the top and I found it laughable - not sexy. Frankly, I hate when girls are overly naive. I need more wit and for the guy to be knocked down a notch or two. I don't like an instalove or heroines that make it so easy.
Wow. Non saprei come iniziare questa recensione se non dicendo WOW!!!! Questi libro mi è stato regalato nel mezzo di un bouquet di libri (che per una volta non facevano parte della mia Wish list, ma solo perché non li conoscevo... altrimenti sarebbero entrati subito a farne parte!). Comunque, come stavo dicendo, in realtà è stata una sorpresa quella di ritrovarmi questi libri di cui non avevo mai sentito parlare. Ed è questo ciò che mi stranisce di più. Trovo che non sia giusto come tanti libri che hanno una fama sproposita, che tra l'altro non meritano quando tiriamo le somme, sono più conosciuti di questi libri meno sponsorizzati, ecco, possiamo dire così. Appena ho letto la trama ho capito che mi sarebbe interessato leggerlo! Eppure ho aspettato. L' ho ricevuto a Pasqua, ma l'ho iniziato solo ieri (1 giugno) e finito oggi (2 giugno) e devo solo prendermela con me stessa per aver ritardato così tanto. Mi è piaciuto tantissimo, perché tanto è dire poco. Sicuramente è stato molto originale il contesto iniziale e lo sviluppo. Ovvio che il classico in cui lei è perfettina e castigata, mentre lui è scapestrato e fighissimo ci sta sempre bene... soprattutto se lui vuole tirare fuori la "parte oscura" che c'è in lei hahahaha. Però Laney l'ho adorata dall'inizio! Nostra sia cambiata radicalmente dall'inizio alla fine della storia, in realtà lei non è cambiata per niente. So che da leggere può sembrare un controsenso, ma se ci fermiamo a pensare, è davvero così! Laney semplicemente ha tirato fuori il suo carattere, è uscita dall'ombra della sua comfort zone e ha scoperto un nuovo modo di vivere; ma questo non vuol dire che lei sia cambiata! Anzi ha sempre mantenuto i suoi principi e bene o male teneva le sue riserve prima di fare qualsiasi cosa di imprudente o che comunque la "vecchia Laney" non avrebbe fatto. Jake ha rappresentato la sua opportunità per vivere davvero, con la V maiuscola! L'evoluzione del loro rapporto era inevitabile con la chimica che avevano quei due🥵😅 In più Laney non si sarebbe fatta fuggire l'uomo dei suoi sogni per niente al mondo. Lo ha dimostrato benissimo alla fine della storia...poco prima dell'incendio. Ma basta così, altrimenti spoilero troppo🫣🤫 Questo libro merita pienamente 5 stelle. Se proprio devo essere pignola, nell'ultimo capitolo non ho capito bene il perché della scelta di far fare la proposta di matrimonio a lei...nel senso, caspita anche Jake aveva gli anelli in tasca e invece abbiamo solo letto della follia di Laney. Tutto qua, non perché ci sia qualcosa di sbagliato nel prendere iniziativa da parte di lei, semplicemente sono io a essere tradizionalista e non mi immagino bene la scena al contrario😅 Però merita davvero tanto. E con mia grande sorpresa, il cartaceo conteneva due libri!!! Solo che non lo sapevo. E ad essere sincera neanche la persona che me l'ha comprato ne era al corrente hahahah. Meglio così, ringraziamo la scrittrice che ci ha offerto al prezzo di uno, anche la storia di Jenna (la sorella di Jake) e Rusty. In pratica è uno spin off/novella che fa comunque parte della saga (1.5 sarebbe se non sbaglio) Leggetelo✨❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.