From the internationally best-selling author of The Simple Wild comes the continuation of a woman’s journey to Alaska and a life she never imagined for herself.Calla Fletcher returns to Toronto a different person, struggling to find direction and still very much in love with the rugged bush pilot she left behind. When Jonah arrives on her doorstep with a proposition she can’t dismiss, she takes … dismiss, she takes the leap and rushes back to Alaska to begin their exciting future together.
But Calla soon learns that even the best intentions can lead to broken promises, and that compromise comes with a hefty price–a log cabin in rural Alaska that feels as isolating as the western tundra.
With Jonah gone more than he’s home, one neighbor who insists on transforming her into a true Alaskan, and another who seems more likely to shoot her than come to her aid, Calla grapples with forging her own path. In a world with roaming wildlife that has her constantly watching over her shoulder and harsh conditions that stretch far beyond the cold, dark, winter months, just stepping outside her front door can be daunting.
This is not the future Calla had in mind, leaving her to fear that perhaps she is doomed to follow in her mother’s fleeing footsteps after all.
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The Simple Wild was a solid 5-star read for me and, fortunately, this supremely satisfying sequel is everything I hoped it would be. Wild at Heart is filled with humor and heartwarming emotion. Another 5 stars.
By the end of the first book, Calla has come to appreciate the simplistic lifestyle of rural Alaska. However, the reality of actually living in the severely remote interior of Alaska is not easy for someone who grew up in a fast-paced city. The story is once again told strictly from Calla’s point of view, which I loved. The dangerous wildlife, the gorgeous views, the daily activities, and, most importantly, the isolation were just as foreign to me as to Calla. I felt like I was experiencing every ounce of her fears, frustrations, and accomplishments right along with her.
Jonah and Calla are still passionately in love and still total opposites. The fact that they accept those differences is endearing. In some ways, though, their relationship feels lopsided. They encourage each other equally, but Calla’s support of Jonah comes at a higher cost. I was pleasantly surprised by how readily Calla faces many challenges without complaint.
There are only a few side characters in this book but their large personalities fill every chapter. The old curmudgeon and the bossy busybody that live closest to Jonah and Calla are quite entertaining.
I loved this story to pieces. Once again, I finished the book with a happy sigh and a full heart.
This was a highly anticipated read. When it was announced that we would get more Calla and Jonah I was stoked. I knew I’d read it. I wanted more of this couple.
Within the first few pages I got all the feels back as if I had never left their world… but now I’ve finished and I’m lost. I’m not sure how I feel. IDK what to feel. While I couldn’t put it down and the moments we got with Jonah and Calla were some of the sweetest moments ever. I feel like I’m missing something. My heart needs more “Jonah and Calla” I’m afraid I didn’t get my fill BUT I would love some more.
I love the way this author can wrap me up in her books.
Edited to add- I’m bookhungover and re-reading. I’m just not ready to leave this world yet
After weeks of waiting I finally got to enjoy my favorite Alaskan story continued. Wild at Heart is just what I needed to read at this time. K.A. Tucker does an amazing character development with Calla in this sequel. Jonah will steal your heart again and make you want more from him. Really enjoyed the continued story from The Simple Wild and look forward to the next book in this series.
Another 5 star book from K.A. Tucker!
Wild at Heart continues the story started in The Simple Wild which I highly recommend reading first. I read them back to back and it was perfect. While The Simple Wild gave me a HFN ending, Wild at Heart finally gave me the HEA ending that I wanted and man, was it hard fought. The Simple Wild is a wonderful, enemies to lovers story that tugged on so many of my heart strings, but Wild at Heart was the romance novel I was waiting for to see how Jonah and Calla would make their relationship work.
Most of the time reading romance books, you make it to the part where the H and h finally become a couple, but rarely do you get a glimpse into the true story of a relationship where you see the day to day of them trying to make it work. It can be so easy to fall in love. Not so easy to stay in love, especially when love is found between two opposites. This was a special, fantastic book where you get to see the struggles (and triumphs) of Calla and Jonah trying to make their relationship work.
Calla couldn’t help but fall for Jonah in The Simple Wild. He was this sexy, rugged charter pilot who was also rude, blunt and not afraid to call Calla on her crap. He was also a man in love with Alaska who thrived off of flying in the air and helping people in need. Calla on the other hand was a woman still finding her path in life. She dabbled in blogging and developing an Instagram following between hanging out with her bestie and mom and stepfather. She was in love with the finer things and convenience, not the wilds of a place like Alaska.
And yet despite their differences, Jonah and Calla loved each other and loved deep and decided to make it a go together in Alaska. But relationships even when based on mutual interests are never easy. Calla and Jonah have to navigate differences in life goals and money and feelings of jealousy. They have both uprooted their lives and need to rely on trust and honesty which at times can be lacking. And yet, despite some understandable challenges they faced, you also see how they are able to carve out a life together because they LOVE each other and would ultimately do anything to stay together.
I was touched by so many moments in this book. Jonah’s devotion to Calla and his thoughtfulness and Calla’s bravery and determination had me rooting for their happiness throughout the entire story. Tucker also gives amazing supporting characters like the curmudgeon neighbor, Roy and the demanding Muriel who push Calla but also help her find her place in their new home. I was equally swept up into the aspects of the Alaskan landscape that Tucker so beautifully describes again in this book as she had in The Simple Wild. I felt like I was there, with Calla, in this amazing log cabin, where she befriended goats and wolves and fought bears.
Wild at Heart gives you a beautiful love story set in awe-inspiring setting that is a character all its own. It gives you a front row see to watching how a couple, despite their differences, strives to make it work so that they can live out their epic love story. This was a tremendous book that I highly recommend!!
Check out this review and all my romance book reviews and romance book lists on my book blog, She Reads Romance Books: https://www.shereadsromancebooks.com/
Wow, what an incredible journey. Like many people who have read the first book, The Simple Wild, I feel in love with Jonah and Calla. When I heard that K.A. Tucker was going to write a second book following these two, I didn’t think twice about it. I added it to my cart and waited patiently till it released. I finally got around to reading it and oh my goodness this one hit every emotion.
I found that I connected a lot with Calla in this book. Calla has given up so much to move to Alaska and to be with Jonah, but finding her place in Alaska and not following her mother’s footsteps was one thing she was working so hard to do. She needed to make Alaska her own, finding something there for her besides Jonah, something that would motivate her to be there and not feel like she had given up herself. Jonah starts off this confident and successful man. He wants nothing more than for Calla to be happy where she is and find the good in Alaska. In the beginning it felt like Jonah was trying to persuade Calla into making certain decisions. But as the story progressed we begin to see that Calla wasn’t the only one that was scared and missing out on the things and people she left behind. As Calla starts to reveal her insecurities and fears to Jonah, we learn that he how he is feeling about the move as well. The difference was he was finding something that he would enjoy to do, to ensure that he gave Trapper’s Crossing his all before he gave up on it.
I loved that Calla started to branch off on her own and make friends around town. Each of these people helped her, unknowingly, discover what she likes and wants to do with her life and how to make the most of Trapper’s Crossing.
I absolutely enjoyed this story and hopefully you give it a go.
Since A Simple Wild was an all-time favorite from 2019, I vacillated between diving into this sequel or simply ignoring it and continue viewing book one as a favorite standalone. In my own warped mind, I could pretend that everything was perfect in Jonah and Callie’s world as they went on to create a perfect life together after the end of A Simple Wild. I’m grateful I didn’t skip this one. Maybe it was neutral expectations, but I really wasn’t prepared to love this story as much as I did.
Wild at Heart was the rare glimpse a reader gets after the HEA/HFN. Although it’s a continuing story and I knew that in all likelihood the couple would still be together, the author was able to maintain a very sweet and swoon-worthy romantic tone throughout the book. There was also some mild conflict that helped to propel the story forward as Calla and Jonah navigated a new home and business in a remote Alaskan town. Besides the fabulous romance, I was impressed with Tucker’s natural dialogue, entertaining predicaments, and authentic secondary characters.
I can’t say that I loved this story as much as The Simple Wild, but I really, REALLY enjoyed it. In my opinion, I think it’s difficult to keep readers invested in an unplanned sequel and I’m thankful the author didn’t resort to excessive angst and drama in an attempt to keep the reader engaged. This was the perfect sequel to cap off Calla and Jonah’s romantic story.
WILD AT HEART is the sequel to THE SIMPLE WILD. I enjoyed reading the 1st book so much that I wanted to start the sequel right away. Who wouldn’t want to read more of Calla, Jonah, Agnes, Mabel, and the memory of Wren. We know at the end of THE SIMPLE WILD, Calla had not listened to her mom, but followed her heart, and fallen in love with a sky cowboy from Alaska. WILD AT HEART is the continued love affair of Calla Fletcher and her bush-pilot Jonah Riggs.
Calla had left Alaska after the passing of her Dad. But she had left a big part of her behind. That was her heart and soul. She was miserable and alone without purpose. So when Jonah came to Toronto to talk her into returning to Alaska. She left her old life behind, and moved to Alaska for Jonah. They started a new life together in Trapper’s Crossing. And as her wise friend Agnes said to Calla, “Find your place here. Something that’s going to give you purpose. Something that feels like you. Find that, and give it your all.” This is a wonderful story and as we watched Calla’s continued growth and finding her place in Alaska. I was sorry when the book ended as I wanted more of Calla and Jonah. Even if this was a sequel, it took place in a different part of Alaska, with new cast of characters, mixed in with friends and family from their past.
I immediately started this after finishing The Simple Wild, which was a mistake on my part, because then it meant I couldn’t properly review the first book. But, I’m glad I didn’t let any time slip between the two books as I’m giving this one 4.5 stars because it left me with so many good feels.
This one follows Calla as she settles into her life in Alaska. I think the issues she faces with her neighbor Roy meant more to me than her relationship with Jonah. Gasp! I know, but Jonah is gone a lot in this one, and really, living in Alaska, you need your neighbors. Something Agnes had told Calla when she first settled here. Agnes is the first of the side characters I have grown to love in this book.
Back to Roy. I’ve always been drawn to people that shut others out because there is *always* a reason. I like to find that reason. While Calla wasn’t eager to help Roy, and she was a bit nosy at times, it leads her to the deeper truth. That vein of the storyline is what makes me love this book so much. (which I understand differs completely from most of the reviews I read before I wrote this).
Even Muriel, who comes crashing into Calla’s life, pushing her way in and putting order where there isn’t, has a good heart. Some pushy people are that way because it comes from a place of love, of caring for other people. While Muriel is a force to be reckoned with, where her heart lies shines through.
So yes, there are some wonderful characters in this book that make it so much more than just a Calla and Jonah storyline. I love their relationship. I love how Jonah went from this burly and brash guy to someone so much deeper, to a caring guy who puts his heart out there, and who will work at this relationship and give Calla the life he promised. I want more, from this couple, from these characters. Because while things seemed neatly tied up with a bow at the conclusion, some things were not. Some characters have more of a story to tell, and I would love to read it. Nicely done!
Beautiful. Gorgeous. Wonderful. THE SIMPLE WILD is one of my favourite books – ever – and when I saw K.A. Tucker was giving us a sequel with WILD AT HEART I couldn’t wait to read it. And, let me tell you, Ms. Tucker doesn’t disappoint with the continuation of Calla and Jonah’s Alaskan adventures.
The sass, the humour, the sexiness, the drama, the tenderness, and the tension – K.A. Tucker didn’t just maintain all of that, she took it to a whole other level. Being allowed to spend more time in Calla and Jonah’s world was a pure delight, and I lost count how many times I laughed out loud.
Warm and fuzzies all round, I loved every page and I’m giving this one five big fat shiny stars (I’d give it 10 if BookBub allowed it). Fabulous!
Wild at Heart by KA Tucker was the perfect follow up to The Simple Wild.
I am so in love with this book and characters.
I love the new characters Tucker has blended in.
They’re definitely a different kind of good, and one that’ll steal your heart before you know it.
And of course, Calla & Jonah always win my heart.
I truly hope, KA gives us another book with these two. Love them!
“Me? I fell in love with a sky cowboy from Alaska.”
5 Stars
Wild at Heart! So much Love for Calla and Jonah’s story and their future in Alaska.
Loved the side characters too! Muriel & Roy were definitely favorites!
The ups and downs of a new relationship come into play along with the struggles with living in the wild of Alaska.
Completely Loved this story but dare to say I would Love another Calla & Jonah book in the future if The talented K.A.Tucker would be up for it.
Please and Thank You!
4.5 stars
I’m so glad that KA Tucker decided to continue Jonah and Calla’s story. I felt like their journey was just beginning as The Simple Wild came to a close. I was happy with the hope and possibility of that ending, but I still wanted more and KA Tucker definitely delivered. Wild at Heart is a true sequel and should only be read after reading The Simple Wild first.
I loved seeing both Jonah and Calla grow in this book. Missteps are still made, but there was relatively little drama. Yes, I was pretty annoyed with a certain veterinarian and Jonah’s obliviousness, but that entire plot line was so relatable and well done. I could easily see it from both sides and I think that’s where the magic in KA Tucker’s writing lies. These may be fictional characters, but haven’t we all felt these kinds of emotions? The fear of new beginnings. The joy of all consuming love. The vulnerability of opening ourselves to new people and experiences. The hope of new possibility. I did feel that Jonah could have been a little more understanding at times, but Calla also had her moments. I loved their banter and there were many times I swooned and also laughed out loud.
Wild at Heart was as much a romance between Jonah and Calla, as it was between Calla and Alaska. She really came into her own and I think it was important to show the struggles as much as the victories. I didn’t want the book to end, but I did feel that some of the day to day activities and descriptions were a little too much. I loved catching up with characters from the previous book (Agnes and Mabel!) as well as meeting new favorites (Toby!), but probably my favorite part was how much of a hidden romantic Jonah was. My heart was full as I finished this one and it ended wonderfully hopeful. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that there might be just a little more story to tell in Trapper’s Crossing.
Don’t pick this book up until you’ve read The Simple Wild because you’re going to need that roller coaster before you jump onto this roller coaster! But it may have been one of the best roller coasters ever!
Not only does Calla and Jonah’s relationship grow throughout this book but so do Calla and Jonah. They’ve learned the ins and outs of how to make a relationship work all the while dealing with the grief of someone they both loved at the same time. Throw on top of that, a new home and a new town, with neighbors that are grumpy and also pushy. I felt this book so desperately resonated with me. We have age in common, and I’ve dealt with several issues that Calla and Jonah experiences. But I felt the book staying with me the entire 4 days it took me to savor this book.
This book was angsty for me but in such a good way. If you stumble across this review first, make sure to read The Simple Wild first to fall in love, and then follow up with this sequel where you’re entirely engrossed in this Alaskan love.
I can’t wait to tell everyone about this amazing story! I hope to have either another book or a novella to read more of Calla and Jonah’s world.
Rating: 6/5
Is it too soon to ask for book 3?
Sequels do not typically live up to their predecessors, but Wild at Heart exceeded all of my expectations. It was real and magical and lovely.
Reading about Jonah and Calla learning to adjust to a life together in Alaska was very satisfying after becoming so invested in both of them while reading The Simple Wild in 2018.
My favorite protagonists had their fair share of ups and downs in this story, but I never once doubted they were meant to be; they just had to figure a few things out. I also really enjoyed all the new and returning supporting characters – except, Marie, for obvious reasons I will never be a fan.
In Wild at Heart, KA Tucker draws you in with wonderful characters and gorgeous descriptions of the Alaska wilderness. A superb read overall.
Also, because I am a greedy witch, I would like to formally request a Wild #3. Please and thank you.
I was so excited when I saw we were getting another book about Calla and Jonah. The minute this book landed on my kindle I dove in and couldn’t stop. I loved the first book The Simple Wild just as much as Wild at Heart. K.A. Tucker delivered a phenomenal story with flawless writing.
This book picks up where the first one ended and I’m so glad it did. Calls and Jonah are ready to start their life together in Alaska. They moved to a house in the woods complete with its own airstrip. Things are going pretty good for Jonah while it takes Calla a little while to figure things out. Alaska is the last place she thought she would ever live.
I loved seeing all these characters again and getting to meet new ones. I loved everything about this book and and can’t recommend enough. The Simple Wild and Wild at Heart are must reads!
Please note that Wild at Heart is a continuation of The Simple Wild. They must read in order.
That said, if you haven’t read The Simple Wild, please put it on your tbr. It’s hands down one of my favorite books. My feelings vary with sequels. Sometimes, I’m completely ok with leaving things how they ended. This time around, I was begging for more of Calla and Jonah. Calla had a wild ride when it came to getting settled in Alaska. I felt like Jonah was selfish when it came to making life decisions. I feel like it was all about him, but Calla rolled with it. I loved her journey, the wildlife, the neighbors, all of it.
I absolutely love everything that KA Tucker writes. Wild at Heart is the follow up to her amazing novel The Simple Wild. Calla makes the decision to move thousands of miles away from everything she knows to start a life with Jonah. She is struggling to adjust to her new life and things get worse when she pushes Jonah to keep doing what he loves. He is gone for days at a time and she isn’t sure she can handle being alone in the wilderness. Jonah wants her to be happy and pushes her to try new things and meet new people. They struggle to find a balance in their new life together but true loves always wins.
I loved the connection between Jonah and Calla. The secondary characters added lots of depth to the storyline. It was fun catching up with characters from The Simple Wild. I wish the story would have continued as I have so many questions but I am happy with the way it ended. I can’t wait to see what KA is working on next!
I will forever love this story of Calla, Jonah and the Alaska wild! I absolutely fell in love with these characters in The Simple Wild and the fact that they received a sequel was just an added bonus.
This book basically picks right up where Calla and Jonah left off with Calla agreeing to live in Alaska so she could be with Jonah. From the beginning, I could sense Calla’s reservations about picking up and moving her life so far away from her family and friends in a remote setting far from what she knows. As much as she loves Jonah, her apprehension was felt with each scene and challenge she faced adapting to life in rural Alaska. And as much as I felt for her, I just wanted her to keep pushing herself for Jonah.
Oh Jonah…he is one of my favorite heroes. His love for Calla is endless, and his passion and loyalty towards her made me swoon the entire book. No matter what Calla faced, Jonah was right there pushing and supporting her – even when he knew it might be tough on her. His love was unwavering, and at times my heart broke for him when wasn’t sure if his love for Calla was reciprocated like he deserved.
This book is a wonderful story of this couple’s ups and downs navigating their new life in a new relationship. The secondary characters, the hero’s job, and the setting all add to setting this book apart from others and make it unique. KA Tucker’s description of Alaska and all it has to offer has me wanting to jump on a plane and experience it all for myself!! Well done once again KA Tucker!
When I first heard this book was in the works, I could hardly contain my excitement. The Simple Wild is my favorite book and I knew Kathleen would be able to recreate the same mood and feel in this book as she did in the first. As it turns out, she managed to exceed my expectations. This doesn’t feel like a “sequel.” It feels like it’s all part of the same book. It’s not just words on a page; it’s an immersive experience. The second I crack open my Kindle, I’m instantly transported to the Alaskan wilderness. As I write this review, I can clearly picture the tiny village of Trapper’s Crossing with its quirky, endearing inhabitants. And I can barely put into words how incredible it felt to be back in the world of Jonah & Calla. It was like visiting old friends. An epilogue at the end of The Simple Wild would never have been a sufficient conclusion to their story. A high maintenance socialite and a headstrong Alaskan bush pilot were bound to hit a few roadblocks along the way and I’m so glad we had the chance to experience those right along with them. I’m hopeful that someday a third book might be added to this “Wild World,” but even if it isn’t, I’m happily content imagining the crazy adventures that lie ahead for Barbie and her Yeti.
Real characters, vivid scenery, and a love story that stirs at your emotions…