River Wild is a sweet and emotional book about two broken people that find love and happiness into each other’s arms. Samantha Towle is back with her darker writing and speaks about difficult subjects like abuse, rape and bullying but in the heart of all about hope for people that appear hopeless.
Carrie has left her abusive husband because now she is not the only one she has to think about. She is pregnant so she she runs away to a small town in Texas to find shelter and start again. She has promised herself to be more optimistic but her grumpy neighbor keeps getting in the way of achieving it.
River has been through the most horrible things since he was a child. He stays closed off from a community that keeps hurting him and from people that whisper behind his back. He stays content in his big home until a bubbly woman provokes him like no other.
Soon their verbal sparring becomes an unexpected friendship which they both desperately need. This is a slow burn romance so their attraction becomes more towards the end but the steps to become lovers are adorable.
Carrie is a bright, strong woman and I loved her attitude. She is honest, open with her feelings and she doesn’t give up or judge people. She has a deeper understanding of River’s needs and she doesn’t push.
River’s story is heartbreaking. The author gives us flashbacks from his past which are really sad but so essential to fully comprehend his character. He is offensive and abrupt sometimes but he is like a hurt animal who lashes out to protect himself. His small gestures count so much more and show that he is just shy and needs of love.
In a world of darkness and hurt these two connect and shine more. I admire that the author wrote a story which proves that people who have lived hardships can dream again.
I wish the story would be a bit longer so the characters could have more scenes together as a couple. There is time skipping and sometimes it felt rushed. Also, I would love to see a story about Carrie’s best friend which could include how Carrie and River have moved on.
This is a book about hope and love and I am so glad Samantha Towle has returned with her more emotional writing that touches more deeply your heart!
3,5 -4 lovely stars!
