Something Wilder

Something Wilder, a romantic adventure audiobook by the writing duo Christina Lauren, takes listeners on a thrilling journey through the breathtaking canyons of Utah. The audiobook features narration by the authors themselves, Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings, as well as Patti Murin and Jon Root, who bring the characters to life with their dynamic performances.

The story follows Lily Wilder, a guide who leads fake treasure hunts using her father's maps. Lily is determined to buy back her family ranch, which her father sold years ago, but her job only pays enough to keep her afloat. When her former love, Leo Grady, reappears with a group of friends, she's not happy to see him. Leo wants to reconnect with Lily, but she's not interested in revisiting the past.

However, fate intervenes when their group's trip goes awry, and they find themselves lost in the wilderness. They soon discover that the legend of the hidden treasure might not be just a gimmick, and there's a chance to right the wrongs of Duke's past and their own. But to succeed, they must confront their history and work together, alone under the stars in the isolated and dangerous mazes of the Canyonlands.

The characters in Something Wilder are well-developed, and the audiobook is filled with humor and heart, making it an entertaining and engaging listen. The chemistry between Lily and Leo is palpable, and the tension between them keeps listeners on the edge of their seats. The authors do an excellent job of balancing the adventure and romance elements, creating a perfect blend of action and emotion.

In addition to the central romance, Something Wilder explores the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and family. Lily's complicated relationship with her father is a significant part of the story, and her journey to forgive him is touching and relatable. The audiobook also touches on the importance of friendships and the way they can help us heal from past traumas.

The setting of the American Southwest is vividly described, and the authors' passion for the region is evident. The canyons and rock formations come alive in the audiobook, and listeners can almost feel the heat of the desert sun on their skin. The descriptions of the natural beauty of the area are breathtaking, and they add to the sense of adventure and wonder in the story.

The audiobook is well-paced, and the plot is full of twists and turns that keep listeners engaged until the very end. The narration is excellent, and each narrator brings a unique voice to the story. Patti Murin's performance as Lily is particularly noteworthy, as she captures the character's wit, vulnerability, and strength perfectly.

Overall, Something Wilder is an excellent audiobook that combines romance, adventure, and humor to create a compelling and entertaining story. The authors' passion for the American Southwest shines through in their vivid descriptions, and the characters are well-developed and relatable. Whether you're a fan of romance, adventure, or both, Something Wilder is a must-listen that will transport you to a world of excitement and wonder.