Wandering in the Dark

by Etta Lane

Desperate to gain some control of my spiraling life, I made a reckless decision in the form of a 6’4 grumpy, tattooed man. A man that buys the storefront next door to mine three weeks later. Jake is infuriating, cocky, and burrowing his way under my skin. As tensions fly, so does a connection that surprises and terrifies me - one that might help us both.

The more I see behind his broody persona, the more I feel my restraint slipping. Our growing feelings could heal us both, but how do I keep the pain of my past from holding me back?



Watching my best friend marry the love of his life only reminded me how empty mine feels. Everyone wants something from the quiet guy covered in ink - but no one stays long enough to see what’s underneath.
When Amber storms into my world, all fire and sharp edges, I realize she’s exactly what I didn’t know I needed. Working side by side forces us into each other’s orbit, and despite our differences, I see the pain behind her guarded eyes and the strength holding her together.
I’m falling for her, but how do I make her see she doesn’t have to wander in the dark alone?

342 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 5, 2025

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Reviews

[Reading_with_AAron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Etta Lane delivered a perfect example of if he wanted to he would!

Jake is the epitome of a family man, he helps his mom and disabled dad, helps those close friends of his, and is an all around good guy. Sure he is a little gruff on the outside, 6'4, tattooed, and a tough exterior but there is nothing in the world he wouldn't do for the ones he loves. Including build things just to make their lives a little brighter and easier.

Amber is the grieving store owner next door to where Jake is now building his dream Carpenter shop and she needs him to let her rent the storage room for her inventory....except he thinks she was just trying to come on to him so he shot her down, hard!

We follow these hard as nails characters as they learn that sometimes it may be hard to let another person in but the risk is worth the reward. To find that one person in the world that just gets you, supports your dreams, and just wants to make your life easier everyday.

I love how Jake was always willing to do what was needed to help Amber. I didn't care for Amber in the first half of the book, I felt like she was just too bitchy and jaded! When Jake managed to wear her down and get beneath the exterior, I started to see her in a new light. I spent so much time laughing at the group chat messages that you could feel the love between these friends and found family!

I had the immense pleasure and sheer joy of arc reading this book. I can't recommend this book enough if you want to laugh, heal, and follow Daddy Jake's commands!

[readingromancehea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Etta Lane for this arc in exchange for an honest review

Amber has had a rough childhood. Her aunt Jana took her in and raised her. When Jana dies Amber closes up. Amber refuses to let her friends in. During a party she meets Jake. Jake is an arrogant man who just walks away from her. This starts a feud and a romance that will blow you away.

I love that Jake calls Amber “Whiskey”. That party for Lily didn’t go the way Amber planned. When Jake walked away from Amber I knew she wasn’t going to forgive him easily. The fact that Jake took Amber home after she drank too much was adorable. That wedding scene was hot. When Jake realized Amber couldn’t run from him anymore I know he was excited to see what would happen next. That ending was beautiful. The perfect way to end this story.

Wow! This story is heavy. I wasn’t expecting this much emotion but it’s an amazing story. Trying to wade through grief is not easy and Etta did so beautifully through this book.

[❁ Ashton ❀ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whoa! Whoa ! Whoa! Etta Lane has done it again!

Amber & Jake’s story was intense , passionate , heated and heavy on emotions ! My gosh was it worth the wait !

Jake and Amber both had darkness from their past clouding their present and I enjoyed the emotional journey I was taken on . I dived into their story while they navigated obstacles and struggles from trying to heal from their trauma . They were exactly what eachother needed , no judgment or shame . It took them a while to allow their hearts to be open to love and happiness.. The fight to allow themselves to have that and be vulnerable was true strength , bravery and a total badass move.

Jake was PERFECT , scarred and trying to overcome his own pain but he put that aside and made Amber his priority . Showed her that she was worthy of love and he was worthy of receiving that love . As hot as he was the real beauty was the fact he protected Amber , he was her light during her darkness , he pushed her to see herself through his eyes , she knew he’d be there to catch her fall, even if she doubted him he never gave her a reason to doubt him or his promises … and what a muscled safety net she had . We love a man that delivers on promises . If any of you readers feel a little (or a lot) broken this this story is for you ! Also , it was sweet having a bulky scowling man being totally sweet with Socks

The friendship and family bond in this book is EVERYTHING ! If I ever got sucked into a book and had to pick my people , this group would be it ! They were supportive , honest and had so much love for eachother

The ending .. I was SOBBING! I can’t wait for Michelle & Ethan’s story I know I will have to invest in more tissues!!

For a romance I love how realistic their healing journey was . Their depression and struggles didn’t just disappear after finding love and I know a lot of readers will be able to connect with that .. I LOVE this series !

✨ Thank you Etta Lane for the opportunity to read this arc in return for an honest review ✨

[Raquel Rolen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jake and Amber’s story caught me off guard in the best way. It’s not polished or perfect, and that’s exactly what made it feel honest. Both of them are stubborn, scarred, and used to pushing people away. Watching them slowly learn how to let someone in felt more intimate than any big romantic gesture ever could.

Amber is tough, but not in a way that’s overdone. She’s tired. She’s been through things that made her build walls without realizing how thick they’ve gotten. Jake has his own weight to carry, but he’s steady and present in a way that sneaks up on you. He doesn’t try to fix her. He listens, supports, and proves himself with actions instead of words.

There’s something really moving about the way their relationship unfolds. They’re not trying to rescue each other. They’re just trying to find peace in the middle of the chaos they’ve lived through. And the people around them make it even more special. The friendships feel real. The moments of connection aren’t forced. It all clicks in this quiet, powerful way.

This is the kind of book that doesn’t scream for your attention. It earns it slowly, with character depth, emotional weight, and a romance that feels lived-in. If you’re looking for something that leaves a mark, this one will.

[Marissa | Readswith_marissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to the author for the #gifted e-ARC!

What an emotional, intense, healing journey this book was and I loved every minute!

Amber was a truly admirable character. Her strong (but stubborn) demeanor made her extremely relatable to me. She was always happy to take care of everyone else, but had a hard time accepting help and love when she truly needed it. Watching Jake come in and tear down her walls with the help of their amazing friend group was so beautiful to watch unfold.

Jake was a MAN. A grump but in all the best ways. I adored him and the way he also had felt like taking care of others was the only choice he ever had. He fought his internal demons right along side Amber and their chemistry when they finally let their emotions go was palpable from the page.

I’m a huge found family love and Etta always delivers. I admire the friend group that she creates and their unwavering love for one another. This is a really heavy book, but such a beautiful turn out. I would highly recommend to all my besties who love emotional romances and the best portrayal of found family!

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This in book 2 in the Wanderland Series. I did not read book 1 but after reading this one I am absolutely going back to read.

This is a grumpy/grumpy sunshine book and it was written very well. Jake and Amber are our main characters and they both had troubling childhoods growing up. Amber never lets anyone get to close but it has gotten worse since her aunt died. Jake and Amber's relationship started off strain because Jake thinks no one can see pass the surface and thinks Amber is prepositioning him when she is definitely not. Now because of her adorable cat and they both need something from the other they developed a tentative friendship that builds into more.

In the beginning I didn't care for Amber but after reading more of her story later in the book I can see why she was so closed off. I liked that they both had some darkness and they could lean on each other when they are having a bad day. Will Amber stop pushing Jake away or will she give in and they can both have what they both wanted.

Thank you Etta soooo much for this ARC. I absolutely loved it and cant wait to read more from you.

[ChantelReads_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait to dive into Jake’s story, and wow… it was everything I hoped for and more! Ever since I finished Wandering Closer, I’d been counting down the days for this release.

From the dedication page, I was hooked and locked in! I honestly couldn’t put it down. Amber and Jake’s story is intense, passionate, and overflowing with emotion. Their journey together is raw, beautiful, and kept me completely invested. And Jake? Absolute perfection.

This one is a must read! I highly recommend it!

[Ashley | ashley.reads._ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wandering in the Dark, book 2 in Etta Lane’s Wanderland series, brings us on a beautiful journey of love, loss, grief, and passion. We had brief glimpses of the two MCs, Jake and Amber, in book 1, and to say I was excited to dive into their story was an understatement.

Jake is everything I love in a MMC.. he is fiercely loyal to his people, he is a family man, he has a tough exterior but he loves hard.. oh, and he is pierced. 👀 He is a bad boy with a big heart, but keeps it guarded due to a troubled past.

Amber comes into his life unexpectedly, and he is drawn to her from the get go. Even though they start off on the wrong foot, these enemies eventually become lovers.. but, their journey is anything but smooth. Amber is drowning in grief and barely keeping her head above water. She, too, has a troubled past and relies on nobody but herself.

Jake and Amber can’t deny their attraction to each other, but can they work through their internal flaws to let each other in and help each other heal, or are they doomed from the start?

This series is the definition of found family and I love every single member of this “family.” Etta writes her characters so well with so much development, and seeing their layers peeled back little by little with each book has me itching for the next! The emotions in this book run deep, and I feel that it is such a relatable journey for so many. This relationship isn’t flawless, but that’s what makes it perfect. Jake is the definition of “if he wanted to, he would” and seeing Amber’s trust grow in him page by page was beautiful to read.

This book will leave a mark on you in the best way possible, and you’ll absolutely need tissues by the end. There are some heavy topics but they are handled with such care, and so well written.

If you love a found family, small town romance with the most relatable characters (including a hot cat daddy), run and grab Wandering in the Dark NOW.. you’ll be saying Yes Jake by the end, too 💜

[Torianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing love story by Etta Lane. She is such a talented author. I felt like I was watching this book in my head as I read, easily visualizing this incredible world she has created. Her writing brings out so many emotions, none of which can be contained. I was squealing, laughing and crying out loud and loved every minute of it. I knew while reading Wandering Closer, I was going to love Jake. He has met and exceeded all of my expectations, easily becoming my #1 book boyfriend. Jake is everything you could want in a MMC. Broody on the outside, thoughtful and caring on the inside and knows exactly what he's doing when it comes to the spice. Amber is his perfect opposite. Attempting to portray a happy persona, while struggling with her traumas alone on the inside. Every time Jake would push her out of her comfort zone he was able to bring her out of that darkness little by little. They both struggled to see the good in people growing up, which caused them to push each other away to start. Once they broke down those walls, they were able to see what drew them to each other. Their development as characters was realistic in so many ways. Healing has its highs and lows. It is not any easy journey. Both Amber and Jake notice this in each other, finding ways to make the process easier for the other. The friends they surround themselves with help them navigate this new path in the best way and do a great job of making them both feel loved and understood. The group chats continue to be hilarious, making me laugh every time. Family is not always blood, but those you surround yourself with, which is perfectly portrayed throughout their journey. I absolutely loved reading Jake and Amber’s story and did not want it to end.

[mkm_bookloverarchivistreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Etta Lane is one of my must read
Authors since last year. The first book in this series made me as a reader want to know Jake’s story. Wandering in the Dark is Jake’s story and Amber’s story. They are an unlikely pair brought together in a way as I read I didn’t see coming. It made the plot and the tale of Jake and Amber love more interesting. We see more of the couple who kicked this series off on Lily and Thorn from Wandering Closer. It your a reader who like to. It be spoiled about couples that came first I’d recommend reading wandering closer first. However it you just want to try a new author and don’t care this series is one of interconnected stand alone romances. Amber is seen as slightly spoiled on a way through Jake’s eyes but not necessarily the truth of who Amber is. Jake learns that over time and ends up being taking care of Amber, providing the support she needs. Tropes that would interest readers are small town romance, found family, Reluctant cat dad, he takes care of her, pierced preen, enemies to lovers, and healing emotional scars. As a reader because of the enemies to lovers trope I would consider Amber and Jake a slow burn romance but their elements of the plot that could fit this as well. I highly recommend the complex plot and intriguing character narrative Etta Lane provides readers in Wandering in the dark.

[Susannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟✨ 4.5-Star Review 🌟🌟🌟🌟✨

Okay. Deep breath This book had me hooked from the jump — grumpy x grumpy with a side of emotional healing? YES, PLEASE.

Amber and Jake’s story is filled with tension, swoony moments, and some seriously heart-squeezing vulnerability. Jake? An absolute dreamboat. Tall, tatted, broody with hidden softness? I was sold. Every time he showed his quiet, thoughtful side, my heart did a little somersault.

Amber, on the other hand… she was fierce and independent, and I wanted to love her as much as Jake clearly did, but I had a bit of a hard time fully clicking with her. Her emotional walls made sense, but sometimes her reactions were a little frustrating. That said — her growth over the course of the story was really satisfying to watch. By the end, I was definitely rooting for her.

The banter was sharp, the chemistry was undeniable, and the “next-door shops” setup gave us allll the close-contact moments I love. Plus, the emotional weight of both their pasts added depth without making it feel too heavy.

Even with my mini struggle connecting to the FMC at times, I still devoured this in one sitting. It’s warm, steamy, and full of heart.

Final thoughts: 4.5 stars because of Amber’s slow warm-up, but Jake? 5 stars all day with his quiet, grumpy charm reminds me of someone I love dearly 🥰

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wandering in the Dark, book 2 of the Wandering Series, by Etta Lane, had me in a new book boyfriend chokehold! Everyone deserves a 6ft4, tattooed, and gorgeous man that has a squishy interior. Literally, where do I sign up?

Amber is grieving the passing of her aunt Jana, the woman who took her in and raised her. Before Jana, she did not have the best childhood. When Jana passes, she loses the only thing that makes sense in her world. Jake is family-oriented and rough around the edges. From childhood on, he has faced judgmental comments about his appearance. You really do feel for both of them. When they are forced to talk to each other because of the proximity of their shops, I for sure thought they were going to argue forever.

Watching their disdain for each other slowly evolve into friendship, then on to more, had me swooning. The journey was not without a LOT of miscommunication. I will admit, I was so frustrated I wanted to bonk some sense into them. Not only did Amber gain someone she could count on, but she also gained new friends who became like family to her. There was a perfect amount of spice without ruining the storyline and pace.

Thanks to Etta Lane for gifting me an eARC of Wandering in the Dark. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jennie Stiehl · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review for Wandering In The Dark by Etta Lane Available August 5th!
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Review: This book had me running the gauntlet of emotions, some chapters I was laughing so hard, others I was in tears, and others your screaming at the MMC and FMC to just kiss already…which they do, a lot.
The way this book was written is just an absolute masterpiece, and really made you feel like you could feel what the characters were feeling.
This is a really heavy book. There are a lot of moments the characters experience overwhelming feelings of grief, inadequacy, anxiety, and not belonging. Jake and Amber keep colliding at the worst of times for each other and make assumptions about the other that are usually never true. The miscommunication is strong with these two. Which is not a trope I really love, but on these two it worked so well and I actually really loved the way their story line went from enemies to lovers. Jake absolutely falls first, so if you love a MMC who falls hard and fast than this one is definitely for you, Amber is the one who needs convincing, but more so having her eyes opened up to the fact that she is worthy of being loved, she is worthy of having someone love you, and that she is surrounded by chosen family. Sometimes chosen family is far better than blood.

If you love small town romances that are not Hallmark style but way steamier, then make sure this book is in your TBR and ready to go for August 5th!

Thank you Etta Lane for giving me the opportunity to read this book, it is always an honour to read everything you write!

[Alexandra S · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG, guys, when I tell you I have been desperate for this book since the author said it was in the works, that's an understatement!
I got it last night, and I DEVOURED it! It's bloody awesome, it's sexy, it's spicy, and Jake has the filthiest mouth and gives the best hand necklaces!!!

Amber (FMC) is a loner, she's built up a hard shell since childhood and can't let people in, but when Jake misinterprets her introduction as a come on he is a total d*ck to her! And thus ensues an amazing enemies to lovers story!

Jake has had a tough ride, a history of throwing punches and being judged for everything, including his knack with the ladies, so when he thinks Amber is propositioning him, he is angry and snarky.

When he sees her again a few months later, fireworks ensue!!

I stayed up late reading 'one more chapter . . .' Only to pick it up and finish it this morning!!

Wandering in the Dark is fabulous!!!

[Tiffany Coffey (cup.ofcoffey) · Rating 5 out of 5]

[“As my dad always says, you have to cut the tree down to build something beautiful from the wood"]

Wandering in the Dark just shot itself up to one of my top reads of the year, without a shadow of a doubt. This story made me cry and laugh; it gave me goosebumps multiple times that spread from the top of my head to the tip of my toes.

Etta Lane wrote this story in a way that beautifully mixed pain with hope. A story where found families are the best families.

The way these two get off on the wrong foot and end where they do. UGH, LOL to SWOOON to … SPLASH?

Ultimately, all we need to remember are these two words: “Yes, Jake”.

What to expect:
Small town romance
Healing – trauma
Enemies to lovers
Found family
Good for business

I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of Wandering in the Dark, and I am providing my honest review. Thank you, Etta Lane, for the opportunity.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by Etta Lane and while it's the second book in the series, I was able to jump right into this one without reading the previous book in the series as it followed a different couple. Jake and Amber are two people who each have had a hard life and those circumstances have shaped them into the people they are today. Jake makes some assumptions about Amber based on past experiences with other women and it sets off a series of events that they both had a hand in.

I thought this book was well-written and kept up a good pace though out the story. I loved the seeing the relationship grow between Amber and Jake as they learned more about each other and that it isn't fair for either of them to make judgements based on past experiences and assumptions. I also loved the found family aspect of the story as Amber is pretty new in town and has to learn to lean on new friends to become part of her village. I am looking forward to more books in this series!

Thank you to the author for the advanced copy!

[Lindsey Orso · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is hands down my favorite of Etta Lanes so far! She is an auto buy author for me. The way she captivates you and really brings you into the story with these characters is so well done.

Jake and Amber are two characters who are both struggling in their personal lives and it really shows on the page.
Amber has experienced such loss and heartbreak from too early an age and had me crying, I swear, in the first few chapters.
Jake has dealt with judgmental and fake people for far too long in his life and rather than allow it to make him jaded, he steps up to the plate and is there in the way a friend should be.
Watching their relationship grow from honest disdain and mistrust of each other to the beautiful friendship and ultimate relationship was worth the pain and heartache.
Jake is the ultimate book boyfriend and passed Thoren (Wandering Closer) by leaps and bounds. Yes, Jake! IYKYK.
5 🌟

[Lazarra Blair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply Outstanding!!

This is the second installment in A Wanderland Series by Etta Lane.

I adored book one but in my opinion Wandering in the Dark is even better. Although they are part of a series they are interconnected standalones so can be read separately.

Wandering in the Dark is the story of Jake and Amber. Both have their own baggage and are relatively shut off to making connections with people but when circumstances throw them in each other's path the fun begins, a horrific first impression sets the scene for this stunning enemies to lovers story.

This novel took me on a rollarcoaster of emotions, it had me laughing out loud and ugly crying. I am not an overly emotional person so for a book to evoke such a reaction from me is a testament to Ettas amazing writing!

If you are looking for a story of Love, Grief, Drama, Healing and plenty of Spicy goodness then you dont want to skip this book! Its most definately in contention for my favourite book of the year!!

[Emily Klein · Rating 4 out of 5]

I devoured this book and I will happily going back and reliving this book over again! I thought this series couldn’t get any better, and then Etta brings us what is now most likely my favorite enemies to lovers story yet!! I could not wait for this book because I had to know more about Amber. Her little snippets in the first book weren’t enough!

You can’t help but feel for Amber and the loss surrounding her. I think one of my favorite things about her is her ability to keep her grief below the surface after the loss of her aunt. The emotional journey she takes in this book is a testament to the amazing writing Etta brought to us!

Jakey baby…🤤🤤 If this man existed I would do anything to get him to notice me. Even if that means sharing my stray 🐈‍⬛! He is a man of devotion to those he cares about, and I love how even though he does his best to fight it Amber is always on his mind. And slowly being added to his cares for list!

[lauren kindl3w0rm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jake & Amber 😭😭😭 I don't even know where to start.
First of all, Etta is an amazing author and just writes the most amazing books. There is spice, there is heartache, there is love & there are found families.

Jake and Amber are both a little messed up & lost in their own ways but find the best in eachother. Their friendship group is amazing too and I love the way they are all there for each other at the drop of a hat. Family really doesn't have to be blood.
I can't really say much without just telling the whole story 🤣 but it was amazing and you all need to read it!
Thankyou @ettalane.author for letting me read another amazing arc and I can't wait for Michele and Ethan's story 😏😍

"𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙖 𝙡𝙤𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙨𝙠𝙚𝙮."

"𝙞𝙩 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨𝙣'𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙛𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮𝙨, 𝙛𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨, 𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙨, 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙄 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪."

[Kaitlyn Waggoner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Etta for allowing me to ARC read this book!!

I love this series so much. The depth of the characters and their emotions leaves so much room for growth and an interesting storyline. I'm obsessed with the found family (I wanna be their friend). And of course who doesn't love a dark, broody, giant, intimidating man with a teddy bear inside! Jake is fireeeee.

as someone who doesn't read many spicy books I must say, this one had me clutching my pearls 🤣 I'm pretty sure the phrase "oh my.." came out of my mouth several times! Even though spicy books aren't always my thing, Etta does such a great job at making the story all about the characters and what they go through and that's the reason I will continue reading these books!

if you are a fan of spice... this one comes in hot lol.

[Melissa McTarsney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Etta!!! You did it again!!
You sent me on an emotional roller coaster ! This book was intense, passionate and lots of emotions. I absolutely loved the bond that these characters have! I would give anything to have a bond like they have!!

Amber is an admirable character. She is very strong willed and stubborn! She is always wanting to take care of everyone else, but it’s hard to let her in and be loved.

Jake-WOW!! He is hot, he is a man! He is a grumpy man, but I love that about him! He always takes care of everyone even when he was struggling with him own pain. He set his own battles aside for Amber! He always made Amber his priority! The way he loves her is amazing!

We were warned we would probably cry in this book, and I sure did!! I cannot wait for the next book! Thank you so much for allowing me to be an arch reader for you!

[Shannon jamieson · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC READER REVIEW!
3.5⭐️

This was my first book by this author.
I do recommend reading this series in order, just do some of the characters and back story make more sense.
This book had some heavy topics, but the author did a good job portraying how these affect people.
Both Jake and amber, are multi dimensional with lots of hidden traits that slowly come out throughout the book.
Some parts were extremely repetitive and kind of dragged, but other parts made up for that.
They misunderstand each other, have poor communication at points but once they finally open up, have so much understanding and emotional build up towards each other. They just had to show their undersides to the other, to reach that point.
They side characters relationships, are just as good as the mains. They make up one big loving family who just wants to help support and love each other!

[Cathe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amber and Jake’s story is raw, intimate, and deeply human. Both carry heavy pasts, filled with grief, trauma and broken trust, and watching them navigate each other with patience and vulnerability is a quiet kind of magic. Jake is the kind of man you don’t see coming: tough on the outside, but endlessly gentle and supportive where it matters most. He doesn’t try to fix Amber; he simply shows up, consistently and without hesitation, proving through every action that she’s not alone. 🌷✨

Amber’s pain is palpable, and her resistance to love is painfully real, but when her walls start to crack, the light that seeps in is beautiful. Their dynamic is not about rescuing each other, but about building something steady, together. And while their chemistry is undeniable, it’s the emotional depth that truly sets this romance apart. 💖💫

[Victoria Lopez · Rating 3 out of 5]

📚ARC Review📚
This book had me at the dedication. Dual POVs with the MCs relationship having emotional friction and undeniable chemistry. MMC is a tall tatted man with a beard and bad boy vibes but a gooey center. FMC is a damaged closed off woman finding her strength and happiness with the help of her friends and the MMC.
The writing is strong and immersive, pulling you straight into the story while gradually layering in the characters’ backstories. The pacing starts off steady, but by Chapter 4, the tension and heat kick in—fast and fiery.
Equal parts steamy and swoony, this romance rewards patient readers with scenes that truly deliver.
Rating: 3.5 stars - due to me not being a patient reader but it can easily be a 4-4.5 for those of you that are 😊
Spice: 3.5

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a book!!! Jake and Amber’s book did not disappoint!

Jake is a tough to your face, secret softy who will do anything to protect those he loves. He constantly shows up and I loved him for that!!
Amber and Jake are forced in the same circles with friendships and their work circumstances.

Seeing Jake and Amber are what each other needs even though they don’t want to admit it. Etta Lane brings the spice throughout this book! Jake is a dirty talker who isn’t afraid to step into his dominant side to be what Amber needs!

This book is another success in the Wanderland series!

Thank you Etta Lane for this arc!

[Larks Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

She tries to ask him about his wood, but he takes it the wrong way.

I’m sorry I couldn’t help the pun 😂. Struggling to keep her head above water, Amber needs a singe of normalcy even if that means being in the crosshairs of the town’s supposed playboy. She can’t escape his scowl or the growing attraction for him.

I loved the complexity of the characters, how their attraction and misunderstanding & understandings helped to forge their relationship into something solid. The characters weren’t surface level. Their depth added a warmth to the story helping you form a connection with these characters. Excited for book 3!!!

[Karen B · Rating 4 out of 5]

When you read a story about two people needing someone to love them unconditionally, accept them for who they are, including their flaws…and find that in each other—your heart warms ten times over and you rejoice when romances offer a happily ever after. The way that Jake takes care of Amber the way she deserves, the way that Amber resists him at every turn, the way that he breaks down her walls and the way she reciprocates when he needs the same…sighs, swoons and toe-curls. Also, Jake and the kitten—I would recommend this book just on this alone (seriously though, cat daddies are the best)! 4.25 stars
Thanks to the author for the eARC.

[Bookreader B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚🌶🌶

Wandering In The Dark is the second book in the Wanderland series!! This time it's Jake and Amber's turn! Etta Lane has done an amazing job creating this enemies to lovers romance with two of the best characters for it.

Jake and Amber has had a little feud going, especially when Jake happens to buy next door to Amber's bookstore. When Amber goes to ask Jake about storage space, he instantly blows her off. Jake is the ultimate arrogant and infuriating man she has ever met. Tension continues to rise, but so do the sparks that keep flying between them. The more Jake and Amber get a look behind each other's exterior, the better they start to understand each other.

[madi · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️
This book was beautifully written. I loved everything about from both the main characters having a dark side to the found family aspect. Amber and Jake’s love was really a sight to see and an example of how every love is different. Amber really had people that stepped up and showed up for her and I love that. Watching how she learns to love herself and fight for herself and her love and know that it’s okay to be broken still and be broken together was amazing. (if that makes sense lol) Amber had a hard childhood and she deserved this happy ending. This book does speak on some hard topics but I think Etta wrote them well and with the care they need.