Something Wilder: A Hunt for Gold Gone... Right?

In a literary landscape often traversed by formulaic tales of romance, few authors dare to diverge from the well-trodden path, let alone embark on a journey into uncharted territory that redefines their own storytelling prowess. Christina Lauren has masterfully crafted a novel that not only breaks the mold but shatters expectations. In their latest offering, Something Wilder, they beckon readers to a realm where the thrill of adventure converges with the complexities of human emotions, resulting in a breathtaking narrative that encapsulates escapism at its finest.

Tucked away in the rugged expanse of Utah, Something Wilder introduces us to Lily Wilder, a woman whose life is intricately woven with the legacy of her treasure-hunting father. Down on her luck yet determined to break free from the chains of her past, Lily orchestrates mock treasure hunts for eager tourists, leading them through the untamed wilderness with her steadfast friend Nicole by her side. Together, they create an alluring façade that entices corporate tourists, promising them a taste of wild adventure while cleverly concealing their own secrets.

Prepare to be captivated, enthralled, and transported to a world where the ordinary is shed and the extraordinary is embraced—a world crafted with the deft strokes of Christina Lauren‘s pen, creating an indelible literary experience that will leave you longing for more.

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Official Description
Our Review
Frequently Asked Questions

Something Wilder

The “reigning romance queens” (PopSugar) and New York Times bestselling authors of The Soulmate Equation and The Unhoneymooners present a charming and laugh-out-loud funny novel filled with adventure, treasure, and, of course, love.

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Growing up the daughter of notorious treasure hunter and absentee father Duke Wilder left Lily without much patience for the profession…or much money in the bank. But Lily is resourceful, and now uses Duke’s coveted hand-drawn maps to guide tourists on fake treasure hunts through the red rock canyons of Utah. It pays the bills but doesn’t leave enough to fulfill her dream of buying back the beloved ranch her father sold years ago, and definitely not enough to deal with the sight of the man she once loved walking back into her life with a motley crew of friends ready to hit the trails. Frankly, Lily would like to take him out into the wilderness and leave him there.

Leo Grady knew mirages were a thing in the desert, but they’d barely left civilization when the silhouette of his greatest regret comes into focus in the flickering light of the campfire. Ready to leave the past behind him, Leo wants nothing more than to reconnect with his first and only love. Unfortunately, Lily Wilder is all business, drawing a clear line in the sand: it’s never going to happen.

But when the trip goes horribly and hilariously wrong, the group wonders if maybe the legend of the hidden treasure wasn’t a gimmick after all. There’s a chance to right the wrongs—of Duke’s past and their own—but only if Leo and Lily can confront their history and work together. Alone under the stars in the isolated and dangerous mazes of the Canyonlands, Leo and Lily must decide whether they’ll risk their lives and hearts on the treasure hunt of a lifetime.

This page-turning adventure full of second chances, complicated relationships, and the breathtaking beauty of the American Southwest will take you on one wild ride.

Our Review

Lily Wilder’s luck has taken a sharp downturn. She operates a retreat in the untamed wilderness of Utah, centered around faux treasure hunts, alongside her close companion Nicole. Their joint venture, where they guide corporate tourists through mock treasure hunting escapades in the rugged outdoors, gains immense popularity. Eager to break free from both the facade and her father’s legacy, Lily’s final expedition unexpectedly reunites her with Leo Grady, the man who shattered her heart and disappeared years ago. As a staged treasure hunt transforms into an authentic adventure, Lily and Leo must collaborate to survive the perils of nature and the avarice of humanity.

‘Something Wilder’ embodies the epitome of escapism, a delightful respite from reality. Christina Lauren crafted this book as a pandemic-era getaway, and they unquestionably succeeded.

The alternating perspectives within the narrative work marvels. Lily Wilder, a tenacious individual, grapples with resentment toward her father. His treasure-seeking exploits not only dominated her life but also disrupted her future ambitions. Leo Grady, on the other hand, was her refuge from it all. That is, until his abrupt departure following a passionate summer on her farm. Now entrenched in the corporate world, Leo yearns for release from his imposed responsibilities. When these two collide, old emotions resurface, along with unanswered questions from the past. This narrative technique keeps both the characters and readers in suspense, awaiting the eventual revelation. Leo’s unwavering adoration for Lily transforms him into a compelling romantic figure. The revival of Leo and Lily’s romance against all odds elicits a profoundly emotional reading experience.

One remarkable aspect of ‘Something Wilder’ is its departure from Christina Lauren’s previous works. Whilst still retaining the captivating elements that define their stories.

The book offers a riveting, fast-paced adventure intertwined with a perplexing mystery that evokes both frustration and captivation. Set within a vivid, treacherous landscape, the clash between humanity and nature heightens the stakes. This dynamic adds depth to the narrative. Leo’s companions contribute an intriguing darkness, delving into the lengths individuals will go to attain their desires. The symbiotic relationship between the romantic and adventurous plotlines enhances the reading experience, with each element amplifying the other. The authors’ evident enthusiasm for the narrative shines through. Even in the dramatic moments that shock and excite you.

I will refrain from delving into the plot extensively, as this is a book best approached with minimal prior knowledge. Much like the cover art suggests, ‘Something Wilder’ possesses a heart of gold at its core. Themes of mourning for the living, the distinction between loss and abandonment, human greed, and the choice to overcome challenges or succumb to them enrich the story. This novel deviates from the norm, kindling excitement for romance once more. If you seek an unconventional yet enthralling narrative, ‘Something Wilder’ should not escape your attention.

Christina Lauren delivers an unexpected narrative twist that nonetheless strikes a resounding chord with readers. With unforeseen turns and undeniable chemistry between the protagonists, ‘Something Wilder’ emerges as a second chance romance unlike any other in the authors’ repertoire. It encapsulates their hallmark ability to offer spellbinding stories with a heart of gold, making it impossible to put down.

Something Wilder: A Hunt for Gold Gone… Right?