Erryn reviews ‘Wilde Love’ (A Forever Wilde Novel) by Lucy Lennox. The ebook was published May 3, 2019, 275 pages. The audibook was released May 24, 2019. It was narrated by Michael Pauley and is 7hrs 19mins. A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Why I read this book: I have read every book in the series and have been waiting with bated breath for Doc and Granpa’s story.
Read my review of the book here.
Weston “Major” Marian:
After running away at the age of seventeen, I found a home in the Army. It wasn’t long before my fellow soldiers became family, giving purpose to my time in Vietnam.
But everything changes when Doc Wilde joins my medevac crew. A night alone in the jungle after a helicopter crash forces us to rely on each other for survival, the secrets we share cementing a bond between us deeper than any I’ve ever known.
Doc begins to play a starring role in my late night fantasies even though he can never be anything more than a friend, a brother-in-arms. He’s straight, with family back in Texas, and I could kiss my career goodbye if anyone in the Army discovered my secret.
When our tours finally end, and we go our separate ways, Doc heads home to his perfect family while I continue to serve. I thought that was the end of our story. Turns out I was wrong.
Liam “Doc” Wilde:
When I wind up on the front lines in Vietnam young and afraid, it’s Major Marian who comes to my rescue. He’s tough, brave, and quiet, and he vows to keep me safe. He’s the only reason I make it home alive.
For some, a friendship like ours might have ended once we left the jungle behind, but life without Major Marian isn’t an option. Over time, our connection continues to grow. It’s no surprise when, years later, an unexpected illness turns my life upside down, he’s the first person I turn to for help. And, as always, he drops everything to rescue me.
I soon realize that at every step of my life, Major has been there, by my side, putting me first. All this time he’s been standing in the sidelines, waiting patiently to hand over his heart into my safekeeping.
Even though I never imagined building a future with another man, seeing Major in this new light is a revelation. And suddenly I can’t imagine my life any other way.
Book Links: Audible | Amazon | Add to Goodreads
My Review:
I am a huge Lucy Lennox fan. I have listened to all her books which means I’m also a massive Michael Pauley fan.
I have followed Granpa and Doc through the first five books in the Wilde series. I’ve read and then listened to all the books because I love series and when they’re done well, they’re rewarding. I love spending time with the Wildes in Hobie, Texas. Granpa and Doc are the glue for this massive family and their love has always been strong. I always wondered about their story and when I heard it was coming, I snapped it up.
Having sobbed my way through some of the passages in the book, I believed myself prepared when I moved on to the audio. Yeah, except with Michael Pauley at the mic, there were places where I hadn’t cried before but I did this time. Would I recommend listening in public or while driving if you’re someone who feels things deeply? No, probably not. And, despite the length, I was done with the audio in less than twenty-four hours. A complete binge. A lovely way to re-immerse myself into the Wilde world.
The story spans forty years, and although a lot happened in those years, Lucy managed to distill down the highlights of the relationship between the two men. From their meeting in Vietnam to their reunion on the Wilde Ranch to a relationship that carried them through the death of those they cared for and the departure of others, Doc and Granpa’s love never wavered. They started out as friends and although it was years before they became a couple, there was never any doubt they were destined to be together.
I like that the challenge of being gay in Texas in the late twentieth century wasn’t passed over but showed honestly. Bigotry existed back then, much as it still does today. By giving the men such a strong bond, it made all the future relationships in the series possible. Even for the Wildes who aren’t gay or lesbians, the loving example of these two men provided stability and a beautiful example.
This book is probably my favourite in the series which is saying something because I loved Felix and Lior, Hudson and Charlie, Otto and…well, I love them all. King’s book is up next, so there’s more to come. I’m grateful as it gives me something to look forward to.
Michael Pauley has narrated every one of Lucy’s books and I’m grateful for him as well. The final scene in this book must have been incredibly challenging for him, but he mastered it beautifully. Hard to believe how many Marian and Wilde men (and women) there are. Oh, and Aunt Tilly. Can’t forget Aunt Tilly. Well done, Lucy and Michael. Thank you for this treasure.
My Rating:
10/10 Pots of Gold (100% Recommended) – Compares to 5/5 Stars
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