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A review by readandwright
Running Wild by K.A. Tucker
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Thank you to KA Tucker and Valentine PR for my copy of Running Wild! All opinions are my own.
I could not be happier to be back in Alaska. It is no secret I love The Simple Wild series and when I finished Forever Wild last year, I was apprehensive to be excited to read about Marie’s story. But KA Tucker is a master at making you fall in love with a flawed character and it was so refreshing to see Marie’s perspective on the story.
Now before you get pressed, we DO get to see Calla and Jonah, Roy, Agnes, Mabel, Muriel and the rest of the crew in Running Wild. But we also get to meet some amazing new characters like Marie’s parents, a champion musher (who is DREAMY) and an instagram famous dog. Yes, truly. But mostly, this book is about the complexities of relationships and people. It’s about the very real fear of missing out on the person we thought we were supposed to be with, learning about what we need from a partner, and moving forward with grief.
In short, I loved it. This is the type of story I love so much. Something quiet that really pulls you into the story, keeps your engaged with action, and delivers a knee wobbling romance. I can’t wait for all the other fans to read it!
Synopsis:
What I Liked:
- The Setting—Every time KA Tucker treats us to a new book in The Simple Wild universe, we get to see the world expand. I loved getting to see Marie’s Alaska. For most readers, we don’t know what it likes to live there so I liked walking with Calla to understand the way of life. But for Marie, she was born and raised there. It’s just a different perspective!
- The Plot—Everything moved so well. It wasn’t too fast to make the plot and romance feel unbelievable, but it wasn’t so slow that I was bored and waiting for the slow burn to combust. Plus, I really liked how Tucker acknowledged the complexities of the dog sledding industry. I know nothing about the sport but I felt how Marie grappled with both sides of the issue.
- The Characters—TYLER BRADY. It was going to take a lot for me to get behind a character with the initials TB (if you know you know) and I was sold so quickly. I loved Tyler. I loved meeting Cory and Marie’s family. And honestly, I really really loved getting to know Marie. Those of us who are so protective of Jonah and Calla were hesitant, especially after her behavior in Wild at Heart, but she earned my respect and love.
- Returning to Alaska—I will read whatever KA Tucker gives us in the world. Every time we get to return, the world grows. I loved that Marie’s story was quieter than Jonah and Calla’s. I think it made sense for who she was as a person and I am so happy she gets her happily ever after.
What Didn’t Work:
- The fan in me just wants to say “I didn’t want it to end and I wish there was more" but I know that’s not helpful. But honestly, I really did just want more.
CW/TW:
Miscarriage; infant death; death in childbirth; animal death; pregnancy; animal cruelty; animal medical trauma; grief; loss of a spouse
Character Authenticity: 5/5
Steam/Spice Rating: 2.5/5
Overall Rating: 5/5