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But when my nephew’s guardianship is contested, I decide I’ll do whatever it takes to keep him in Rose Hill. Even if it means marrying the enemy.
Rhys Dupris.
A man who is secretive, broody, and completely infuriating. A man whose work takes him away for weeks on end and brings him back covered in mysterious bruises—ones he won’t talk about. In fact, we barely talk at all.
Which would be fine, except when he’s not talking, he’s staring. And the way he looks at me is borderline indecent.
The tension between us has always been palpable. But living under the same roof is a dangerous temptation.
I swore I would never forgive him. But that was before I knew the man behind the mask. The one who’s fierce and protective. The one who’s gentle and patient. The one who shows up for us when we need him most.
He’s not at all who I thought he was.
And that makes hating my husband so much harder… and loving him just a little too easy.
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View All꒰ ⋆ ౨ Wild Side by Elsie Silver: ৎ°⤿ Started: 06.04.2025⤿ Finished: 07.04.2025⤿ Rating: ★★★★★I’m so surprised that this book has really unforgettable characters cause my trusty booktuber who read this didn’t fully enjoy it but I’m speechless cause as you see I gave this a fully 5 stars.⟡ Summary:"Wild Side" marks the third entry in Elsie Silver's Rose Hill series, focusing on the lives of Tabitha Garrison and Rhys Dupris, which become intricately linked after the passing of Tabitha's sister, Erika. In a surprising turn, Erika names Rhys as the guardian of her three-year-old son, Milo, prompting Tabitha and Rhys to enter a marriage of convenience to keep Milo in Rose Hill, despite their initial hostility towards one another. Rhys is depicted as a mysterious and brooding figure, often returning from work with unexplained bruises, which hint at his secret life as a professional wrestler, a detail he conceals from those around him. As they navigate cohabitation and co-parenting, the animosity between Tabitha and Rhys gradually transforms into a deeper bond, challenging their initial perceptions of each other. The story examines themes of grief, family dynamics, and personal identity, illustrating how unforeseen circumstances can foster significant personal development and the creation of unconventional family ties. The novel has garnered acclaim for its emotional resonance, character evolution, and insightful portrayal of complex relationships.⟡ ⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ Characters:Rhys Dupris stands out as one of Silver’s most compelling male protagonists to date. He embodies a stoic and enigmatic presence, burdened by a concealed past that he keeps tightly under wraps. His frequent absences and the mysterious bruises that mar his skin add an intriguing layer of suspense, which is gradually unveiled as we discover his secret life as a professional wrestler. Rhys is a tapestry of contradictions: he is both tough and tender, emotionally guarded yet deeply yearning for connection. His internal struggles and eventual softening create a character arc that is immensely rewarding.On the other hand, Tabitha Garrison begins her journey as a fierce and resolute figure, albeit one whose sharp edges are honed by grief and a desperate need for control in a world that has been irrevocably altered. Witnessing her gradual opening to Rhys, her embrace of vulnerability, and her discovery of strength through love renders her transformation equally compelling. Meanwhile, young Milo transcends the role of a mere plot device; he serves as the emotional heart of the narrative, with his interactions with both Rhys and Tabitha radiating warmth and tenderness that are truly heart-melting.⟡ ⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪Review:But that would be a lie. Because much like the very first time I met her, I can’t get the woman out of my head.Haven’t been able to for the past two years.Elsie Silver once again captivates ME with her latest offering, Wild Side (honestly she got me off guard cause I never thought that the title is his nickname), the third installment in the enchanting Rose Hill series. This novel delves into profound emotional depths, weaving a narrative that is both intricate and resonant, while still delivering the intoxicating romance and palpable chemistry that her fans have come to adore. Following the tragic loss of her sister, Tabitha is poised to assume custody of her nephew, Milo. However, her plans are upended when she discovers that Rhys, her sister’s landlord whom she holds responsible for her sister's decline, has been awarded custody instead. As they negotiate a shared arrangement to keep Milo close, neither Tabitha nor Rhys anticipates the deepening of their relationship beyond a mere legal contract. “Tabby, I’m not the kind of guy who fucks around. So you can make up all the rules you want, but I’ll be following my own. And that rule is that there won’t be anyone else while I’m wearing this ring.”The emotional depth of this narrative left me in tears multiple times, a testament to the profound connection I felt with the characters and their journey. Initially hesitant about the direction of the story, particularly regarding the "marriage of convenience" trope, I found myself captivated by how Elsie Silver masterfully transformed this concept, much like she did with an accidental pregnancy plot in one of my favorite reads. Tabby, I’m tired of hiding. I don’t need to anymore, thanks to you. This is my choice. You and me. Together.”Every character is richly developed and utterly relatable, making it impossible not to root for their happiness, which undoubtedly contributed to my emotional responses. Tabitha emerges as a fierce and resilient figure, grappling with her unresolved feelings about her sister's death while showcasing remarkable emotional intelligence and maturity. She is a dedicated leader, committed to both her loved ones and the restaurant she has tirelessly built. I love you, TabithaBut his eyes are on mine the whole time.Rhys, on the other hand, presents a more complex challenge. Initially guarded due to his upbringing in foster care, he keeps both Tabitha and the reader at arm's length. Yet, as Tabitha gradually dismantles his emotional barriers, his vulnerability reveals a captivating depth that makes him all the more appealing. The supporting cast, including Milo and their circle of friends, enriches the narrative, creating a sense of family that resonates throughout the story. While I may not have become a wrestling enthusiast, I certainly emerged as a devoted admirer of Wild Side.You did the same for me. I help you find your color, and you help me find mine.”The storyline of Wild Side is both poignant and captivating: following the sudden passing of her sister Erika, Tabitha Garrison is taken aback to discover that Erika’s will has appointed Rhys Dupris—not her—as the guardian of her young nephew, Milo. Rhys, a man shrouded in mystery with a rugged demeanor and a past cloaked in shadows, is someone Tabitha finds difficult to trust or comprehend. However, in a bid to keep Milo in the comforting embrace of Rose Hill and to provide him with a semblance of stability, Tabitha reluctantly consents to a marriage of convenience with Rhys. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic unfolds beautifully, enriched by the complexities of unexpected parenthood, the weight of grief, and lingering emotions. The close quarters and shared responsibilities of co-parenting create an exquisite tension that heightens their vulnerability.At its essence, Wild Side explores themes of healing, identity, and the profound impact of love, intricately interwoven with elements of grief, trust, and the concept of chosen family. The narrative opens amidst the heavy weight of loss, as Tabitha and Rhys are unexpectedly thrust into the role of parents following Erika’s passing, compelling them to confront their shared sorrow while caring for the young boy left in their charge. Grief serves not merely as a backdrop but as a driving force that influences every interaction and choice, lending a genuine depth to the characters' emotional journeys. Trust emerges as another significant theme; both Rhys and Tabitha have built emotional fortifications, shaped by previous betrayals and hidden traumas. Observing their gradual process of breaking down these defenses—learning to embrace vulnerability, extend forgiveness, and cultivate belief in one another—forms the emotional core of the narrative. Identity is also crucial, particularly for Rhys, whose life as a professional wrestler reflects the facets of ourselves we often conceal for survival. His path toward self-acceptance encapsulates the overarching message that love transcends perfection, focusing instead on the importance of being truly seen and accepted. Ultimately, the novel honors the concept of found family, illustrating that the connections we choose can be as meaningful, if not more so, than those dictated by blood. By embracing one another and Milo, Rhys and Tabitha forge a home defined not by conventionality, but by resilience, commitment, and the courage to open their hearts amidst uncertainty.Silver’s prose remains emotional yet grounded, with her signature ability to blend witty banter, angsty moments, and raw vulnerability. The pacing is just right—never dragging, with each chapter peeling back more layers of the characters and pushing their relationship forward.The slow-burn nature of the romance will have readers aching, especially with the constant back-and-forth tension. When things do ignite, it’s intensely satisfying—passionate, emotional, and deeply earned.The depth of my feelings for this book is truly beyond articulation. It holds a significance in my life that transcends mere words, leaving me at a loss to convey its true essence. I doubt that any combination of phrases could adequately honor the profound impact it has had on me.────୨ৎ────⤷ Thank you for reaching to this point here and I'm really glad and thankful for you, love you ⟡.
Rhys and Tabitha had such a cute story and their banter was ELITE.