Review: Wild River by Laura Pavlov (Magnolia Falls #2)

Note: An advance reader copy (ARC) was provided by the author.

Ah, these men of Magnolia Falls! Two novels in, and I'm already obsessed. Just like the book before it, Laura Pavlov doesn't disappoint with Wild River. If you've read Loving Romeo, the first book in the Magnolia Falls series, then there's no doubt you'll remember River Pierce, the broody legal eagle who, at twenty-seven, had a growing practice in town. When Ruby Rose returns to take care of her ailing father and the bar he owns, it's obvious she doesn't think all that highly of River. The fact that he calls her "evil queen" pretty much encompasses his thoughts on the twenty-six-year-old doctor of psychology as well. They bicker and taunt and push each other's buttons; but they also banter and tease and flirt to the point of distraction. The temptation becomes too much to resist, and agreeing to sixty seconds to prove a point turns into a temporary arrangement for more. Soon enough, neither can get enough, but when the time comes for Ruby to go back to California for her new job, will she and River simply walk away or be left brokenhearted?

Get ready to be swept away on this wild river ride of a romance with two strong-willed main characters who could be perfect for each other--if only they would get out of their own way. Ruby and River may have kept their circles small, but they were very close-knit, highlighting loyalty, trust, and love with those who mattered most to them. I loved how one kept the other on their toes and vice-versa. The tension grew with every single interaction, and by the time they got to the whole sixty-second dare, well, I found myself just like them--I wanted more. The chemistry was strong with these two, and I liked seeing those fortified walls they had around their hearts, respectively, come down bit by bit. The one thing that made me hesitate give this a full five stars was what led to the third act break-up. The bonus epilogue, however, made up for it, and I'm just glad River and Ruby fought mightily for and won their happily-ever-after. 4.5 stars go to Wild River.

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Read my reviews for the Magnolia Falls series:

Loving Romeo (book one) - five stars - My Review

Wild River (book two) - 4.5 stars - My Review (posted above)

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Release Date: 28 March 2024

Date Read: 22 March 2024

Learn more about Laura Pavlov.

Pre-order Wild River on Amazon.