Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge

The Wild Things #3

by A. Wilding Wells, Tracy Porter, John Porter

The soon-to-be-released third book in the Wild Things series (it is though a standalone book, as are all of them in the series). Cover coming soon!

Ruby Mae
Some people would say running away from your problems won’t solve them, but it might have saved me. I was the only one who knew the truth about the events of that unforgettable night, or so I thought. My glamorous life in Paris as a world-famous model was a great distraction and ensured I didn’t dwell on the past. I tried to forget everything I lost, until an anonymously sent box arrived and flipped my world upside down. The contents of it my ruin, but was it also the answer to my seventeen years of whys? And if I go back home, will the man I left behind still be waiting for me?

Rebel
I have no right to stake a claim to her even though I told her I’d wait for her in our tiny hometown of Snowvale, Wisconsin.
So maybe I lied. Sure, I moved on. Well, sort of. Yeah, I married, had a kid who’s cool as hell and now a teenager. But here I am, still running my successful hardware store, and claiming the title of the most eligible bachelor in town. I ought to be over the moon with my life, but it’s missing one thing. Her. Ruby Mae Rose. And local gossip says, she’s coming home. Will she finally give me what I’ve always wanted—Answers and a Forever?

Murder, mystery, darkness, and comedy collide in a tornado of small town family drama wrapped in second chances. Addictive, quirky, all-too-human characters, meets heartwarming, un-putdownable page after page of surprising twists and turns.

Genres: Second Chance, Romance, Contemporary Romance

ebook

About the author

A. Wilding Wells is an author, storyteller and creative visionary that writes provocative adult contemporary romance novels. She describes herself as a passionately-obsessive, balance-seeking, oxymoron-living, modern-day dirty-minded woman. She lives on a ranch on the west coast with her husband, four boys and about enough animals to sink an ark.

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AWW's newest novel will release on April 11, 2016. How to Tame Beasts and Other Wild Things. An artsy young woman, given the impossible task by her estranged father to score her widowed brother-in-law a wife, instead finds love, self-discovery and redemption
Tender, textured, suspenseful and triumphant. A mind blowing, fast paced, sexually-tense passion, that is an emotional ride of second chances, healing and redemption.


AWW's first novel, A Mess Of Reason, is now available. The sexy and compelling story of the brilliant and sassy Tess Harlow and her best friend, Scout Steele - country rock star. Friends since forever, they've never found "their time". Now she's about to marry Scout's nemesis. But not if Scout has anything to say about it. His best friend may soon become his best lover.

Reviews

[Betül · Rating 4 out of 5]

**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**



"I need to love her. But first, I have to get over hating her."

I absolutely adore A. Wilding Wells' book covers and titles. She is such a creative and out of the box thinking author, that she surprises me with each and every book. Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge was another great and entertaining book by this amazing author. The characters were just as I expected very unique and intriguing. I have no idea where she gets her inspirations from for all these crazy characters but I can't get enough of them.

I just couldn't get enough of Ruby and Rebel's love/hate relationship. It was so entertaining and it made sense. It was obvious that these two characters had so much love for each other, however they also had their secrets and prides. They were also very stubborn and they both didn't want to take the first step to admitting their love for each other. Normally this would get old very fast for me, but it worked really well in this book. My heart broke for Ruby and I understood why she was so adamant in not telling Rebel why she left. The mystery element in this book was done perfectly. It kept me guessing until the end and the little plot twists were a very nice touch to the story. I hope this isn't the last book in the Wild Things series, because I love this crazy town and I want more stories!

[Pavlina Read more sleep less blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review to come tomorrow <33

 

  

[hugsandcookies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness where have I been hiding myself and not realising that this book existed lol and I'm totally not that immune to books like this cause yes when you judge a book without at least giving it a chance this is what happens I ignored and just breeze through it, but not a chance in hell now cause I loved it (squeals like a tween hehe) say hello to Rebel Field and hello also to Ruby Mae.

I'm glad I took a chance on this book cause A Wilding Wells knows how to really give a good book this type of fiery - funny - intense - hot like the sun - *fans self* mind games - annoying - heartbreak - twists and let's not forget how hot and bothered sexed up Rebel and Ruby are for each other. I didn't know what was going to happen but this book covers different sides I didn't expect and you have to love the crazy witty characters that made me laugh and most of all made me cry, you'll never be more happier for them but I wasn't too happy with the ending though that's just my minor disappointment.

[Linathebookaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Sunshine Bleeds a Black Edge
Author: A. Wilding Wells
Category: Romance
Series or Standalone: Standalone
POV: Dual, First Person
Plot: 4.5
Characters: 5
Scorching Level: 5
HEA: Not telling

I am always amazed by A. Wilding Wells' unique storylines and exceptional writing!
You will love Ruby & Rebel. What a clever, emotional and spicy book!!!
Great chemistry between characters, witty banter and excellent pacing! Don't let me start on the secondary characters!
This author knows how to deliver a heartfelt and out of the box storyline. Ruby & Rebel have history but a cruel incident that Ruby keeps a secret, tore them apart. Ruby left and never looked back. Rebel moved on but he never forgot.
Years later, she is back to their hometown but nothing is as she left it. Rebel had a family of his own and Ruby will see that she no longer fits into his life...Or does she?
Rebel loves her...but he has to get over hating her first. Will he be able to uncover Ruby 's secrets?
I loved Ruby. You might find her a bit childish first, because she really did expect Rebel to wait for her even after so many years. But slowly, you will come to love this witty character.
Every hero in this book has a very unique personality and I LOVED that. Their quirks, their banter, everything made me love them. Also, the book passes messages that I absolutely agree with. Don't judge because not everything is as it seems. Do not put labels on people. Just love them.
If you want something fresh, then please read this!!! I highly recommend A. Wilding Wells and all her books!

4.5 Stars

[BexLOVESBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about Rebel & Ruby's Story. From the very beginning.

The way they went from being eachother's EVERYTHING to the ENEMIES they were when the book started. I loved the banter and emotion in the beginning of the book. I loved being inside their heads and all the things they were feeling, going crazy for one another. I loved Ruby May's adorable dialogue and Rebel's IDGAF attitude. Seriously, just everything about these two made me crazy.

CRAZY . IN . LOVE!

[Paperback Princess · Rating 5 out of 5]

5++++++ stars!!!!

*ARC GENEROUSLY PROVIDED BY AUTHOR*

Ask me a stupid question??!!

Was Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge Good??

Define Good.

Omg...this book was fanfkntastic!!!! Then again I expected nothing less from A Wilding Wells..once again she hits us with a beautiful story but with a twist of murder and mystery that left me head over heels in love!!!

Ruby and Rebel were high school sweethearts but something happens on graduation night that alters their life and plans. Ruby leaves Rebel and her small town behind to escape that night..over the years she becomes rich and famous as a fashion model. When she had to return home to help her mother and brother move into a new home she bought for them her past namely Rebel Field comes flooding back.

This book was so damn good...as in all this authors books they just make you feel so good ..silly and just plain happy. Even though there's some serious stuff going on these characters are so funny with a huge side of crazy lol!! I looooved Ruby and Rebel together ..even though they had 17 yrs of being apart they still loved each other so much..sigh!!!!

All I can say is read this book so you can experience all the funny, love, crazy, the mystery and all the sexy!!! You will fall in love just like I did..guaranteed!!

[MyMy (PunchDrunkLibrary) · Rating 4 out of 5]

PDL's Rating: 4.5 'Sweet Thing' Punches (Really Liked)

One of the things I look forward to the most from this author from each release is the anticipation of her characters. Every single book this author writes, her characters are beyond unique and amazing and one find themselves fully immersed and head over heels in love with her imperfectly perfect characters’ and their world. I always find myself falling possibly more in love with these characters flaws than anything! Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge does not disappoint in this aspect, it confirms my love for this author’s writing all the more.

Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge is full of hope, love, and more than a splash of suspense to keep your heart on edge, wrapped up in a perfect bow of sexiness.

I kid you not, if you are new to this author – don’t hesitate, her characters are the ones you will always remember in the back of your mind because they are never your typical characters you find in the majority of your reads. Pull the trigger and one-click this one or any of her previous writings. Trust me you will not be disappointed.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely my favorite AWW book to date. While it shares my favorite elements from her other words - characters that connect to me and hold on, deep and abiding chemistry between the leads, quirky secondary characters, and frustrating but funny family - it takes those elements, kicks them up a notch and then adds in a devastating mystery.

I am consistently amazed at Wells' ability to create a story that is both completely over-the-top and entirely believable. Ruby and Rebel's story is no different; it is larger than life while still fitting neatly into my heart with the others. Even having just finished the book, I already miss Rebel and Ruby (and Matilda and Balthazar, and Wolfgang and Theophile).

Am I the only person who's hoping for a book featuring Rifle and Bubble?

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was looking forward to reading this story. A Wilding Wells always has this way of transporting readers into a fun and quirky world. And this book did not disappoint. Rebel and Ruby's story was unexpected and I love that about her writing. You think you know what the story is going to be but she always manages to surprise us, and I always end up crying. I am in love with her words and I always want more!! Absolutely a must read!!!

[Audrey Edits · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ask me a stupid question...
Did I like this book??
Well, that's definitely a stupid question...because I LOVED IT, of course!!!

This is the 3rd book in The Wild Things Series, but can be read as standalone. Alternating POV. I received this ARC from the amazing author, and this is my unbiased review.

A Wilding Wells has once again blown my mind with an immensely gut wrenching novel! I don't know how she does it, but she has a way of combining so many different elements together in a book, and it works perfectly!! From the intensely hot romance to the heart breaking incidents; loss, love, guilt, anger, lust, passion, hurt, mystery, laughter, tears, heartbreaks, and second chances...it's all included! I love how I went through the emotional wringer when I read this book, just as I have done on the other books! The characters are so very unique and odd in different ways, yet they are very real. They have real life issues and hurdles to overcome, and it's not just an easy walk in the park. This book touches on subjects that are uncomfortable and difficult, but they are things that happen everyday. The way AWW is able to not only write a good love story that includes overcoming these issues, but also make so many very positive and uplifting points throughout the book, while also making the reader laugh, cry, hurt, heal, and so much more, is simply a streak of brilliance!
In this book, we meet Ruby and Rebel. A couple that knew at a young age that they were meant for each other. But life doesn't always go according to plan, and when everything falls apart, Ruby runs far away to try to save herself and the ones she loves. 17 years later, she returns for the first time. There are so many unanswered questions and suspicions and pain that is stirred up, but the connection between them is just as strong as before. But the journey to forgiveness is not an easy one, and very well may be impossible. Will true love between soul mates be enough to conquer it all??

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

WAS PROVIDED AN ARC FOR AN HONEST REVIEW



Oh Rebel Rebel!! I love you so. In this case Rebel is all man and a mighty good one at that. Besides having a dirty mouth he's also a loving and supportive father among other things. He has loved Ruby Mae Rose forever despite the time apart.

Ruby Mae is living a whirlwind life in Paris. She accepted a modeling contract right out of high school purely based on a tragedy. She made rash decisions and left behind her heart with Rebel Fields. She heads home with high hopes and a heavy heart.

I adore A Wilding Wells and her stories. They are a magical ride of quirky characters and strange pets. From a grandma we might have all had to an out of the box cousin we can all find something to relate too. I adored this book and some of the surprises along the way. While this book is funny and happy and uplifting it also has a dark underside that is truly A Wilding Wells own style. I hope everyone picks up this book.

[Amber- Leave Me Alone I’m Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, I just LOVED Rebel Field! Some of his words ripped my heart out given the circumstances. The angst in this book is at an all time high. Secrets are locked up tight and there are mysteries to solve! I thought I knew all along whodunnit, but of course I was wrong. There are so many twists and turns throughout this unique story. As always, A. Wilding Wells delivers in the interesting and colorfully-flawed character department. I just adore the side characters in her books.
Overall, a great read. I can't wait for more in this series!

[Ace Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderfully whimsical

Around 4am this morning, I finished Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge by A Wilding Wells. As always there is so much charm and magic in her writing that I find myself devouring the pages hoping the fairy dust will stay on my fingertips. I want to live in Snowvale to swim in the lakes, pick at the cherry trees and ride atop elephants. I want to be friends with the fragile but strong, beautiful but eccentric and utterly captivating characters. My life goal would be to have an ice cream truck driving squid fisherman of my own straight from the brilliant mind of my favorite stunner, A herself. I will always make time to read these delightful books if for no other reason than to let them fill my heart to the brim with a thousand beautiful phrases and cap it off with a thousand beautiful things about the author herself. Thank you for writing your stories!

[Vanessa (nessreads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*

5 "Rock-Paper-Scissors" Stars!!!

"Ask me a stupid question."

"Did you like 'Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge?"

Yeah, that's a stupid question. And no, I didn't like this book...I FLOVED this book!!! I don't know how A does it, but man, with every book she writes it skyrockets as one of my favorites. 'Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge' is no different, this book MY GOSH THIS BOOK, I just want to scream how fan-freakin-tastic this book was. Don't get me wrong, I love all of A's books, but this one, this book has become my most favorite!!! It was just, ugh, AH-MAZING!!!

Ruby Mae Rose is a famous model living in Paris. Her life isn't exactly how she thought it would be. She had other dreams, but sometimes life doesn't go according to plan. Ruby receives an anonymous box and what's inside shakes her to-the-core. Seventeen years ago she ran away from her hometown of Snowvale, Wisconsin, and now with the arrival of the mysterious box she knows it's time to go home and get answers. But more than anything she knows she'll have to face him, the boy she ran away from without an explanation. The boy who stole her heart in high school. The boy, now a man who still after many years holds her heart. But, will he forgive her?

"She might have gone on and become a famous star to the rest of the world. But, to me, she was it. My universe."

Rebel and Ruby were high school sweethearts. On graduation night, something happens that changes everything, especially Rebel and Ruby's future. Rebel is confused and doesn't know what happened that made Ruby run away and take his heart with her. He needs answers and needs to know what happened that night that altered both his and Ruby's lives.

"I need to love her. But first, I have to get over hating her."

Rebel and Ruby, boy did my heart break for them. These two had so much to work through. Countless questions that needed to be answered. So much anger and guilt to tread through. So much time lost. Their hearts needed to heal, but they also needed to be nourished. Rebel and Ruby were poetry. The beauty in which they loved was heartwarming. They were a slow dance under a moonlit sky. They were everything true love is. Soulmates to the core, a beautiful melody.

"You open new places in your heart and you close others off. It would be impossible to love everything about someone. We all have flaws. Love means you love… Regardless of the flaws, you still love."

Rebel Rifle Field. HOLD! THE! DAMN! PHONE! This man, OH MY GOSH this MAN! I can't even begin, geez he was, oh boy I wish there was the perfect adjective to describe him. He had a little bit of everything though. He was thoughtful, caring, charming, sweet, intense, strong, and most of all loving. I can't I can't I can't, I just loved Rebel so damn much!!!

A. Wilding Wells, I am in awe of you! You have this magic in creating such glorious and vibrant characters and vivid worlds in which your characters live in. Your books just get better and better with each one you write. I know I've said this countless times, but I'm going to say it again. Anything you write, I will read!!! I get lost in your words, especially in the worlds you create. Thank you, thank you, thank you for giving us Rebel and Ruby!!! Can't wait to see what else you have up your sleeve.

[the.quirky.wallflower · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Time was...It was motionless and dense and impenetrable."

It seems that EVERY SINGLE TIME I read a book penned by A. Wilding Wells there are lines or passages that seem to be directed to my soul. The quirky souls of her characters stay with you long after you say goodbye to them.

Rebel and Ruby's love and heartache also tells of quiet strength and sacrifice. The love shared amongst all the characters is one that ultimately signifies acceptance. Acceptance of change. Acceptance of letting go of the past. Acceptance of the present. Acceptance of circumstances that cannot be changed. Acceptance of forgiveness of oneself and of others.

I only hope that we meet more quirky characters from A. Wilding. Wells. Who knows if we'll see more of Bubbles and Rifle? All I know is that if we don't... I will want to "become one of those damn raindrops that melted into the earth."

[Wonder Tre Reads -Tre Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ask me a stupid question..

"Will readers love this story?"
That was stupid, of course they will!


AWW has done it yet again with her off the charts creation into another time and place with Rebel & Ruby.

Everyone has a past and in this story Rebel and Ruby had their once upon a time until things weren't all sugar and spice anymore and Ruby left. We learn about what caused her to leave and her battle within herself to reveal the events to her forever love Rebel. This man wears his heart on his sleeve and I instantly love him for that and the way he has arms wide open for Etta. Monday is one of a kind for sure and the way she is just makes me chuckle, I would love to hang out with her and all her friends. The emotions that are felt throughout this story feel so real, we're in the sexiest scene one minute to be brought through another and I'm holding my breath as to what's going y happen next. It all flows so smoothly in one beautiful package. If you've read any of the other standalone books in The Wild Things series you'll notice characters making an appearance that will bring a smile to your face as it has mine, and if you've yet to read them have no fear you'll enjoy this story just the same and I guarantee that you'll be looking into the rest sooner rather than later. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.

[Kylee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book and have volunteered to leave an honest review. I am a big fan of A Wilding Wells as her writing and stories are always so quirky and unique. Sunshine Bleeds a Black Edge is the third stand alone book in the Wild Things series and I would have to say is one of my absolute favourite books of hers to date. The story line along with the characters are unparalleled to anything else I have ever read. This book had me sitting on the edge of my seat from the first page until the very last word. Ruby Mae has returned home after leaving her high school sweetheart Rebel nearly 20 years ago. She broke both their hearts when she left but can the damage be repaired if she is not willing to give Rebel all her secrets. This book made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me want to throw my kindle at the wall when these two drove me to the point of complete frustration. My heart literally ached for the years these two had lost and the pain that they had endured. I have never had a book effect me so emotionally as this one did. Sunshine Bleeds a Black Edge is a must read for any lover of romance books. If you are a lover of A Wilding Wells then you will be blown away with this book and if you are new to her then this book will have you hooked to her books for life. Not enough stars in the sky to rate this book high enough.

[MillsyLovesBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

If there's one thing that i love when i read a A. Wilding Wells book is to expect the unexpected. She writes outside the box not just sticking to a format. Her creativity in life shines through in her words. Which gives us as readers an intriguing, captivating read.

This is why my rating is 5+ stars because i never know what i'm going to get. Yes we get the Blurb/Synopsis but for ME as soon as i'm turning the first page its like being blindfolded and putting your had into a bag of Skittles you never know what colour/flavour going to get. But when take the blindfold off you have a rainbow in your hand. Thats what it feels like to read an A. Wilding Wells book!!

I could probably write a three page essay on this story because nearly every page has a talking point. But don't worry i'm not, i can't and won't spoil this read. What i will say is some of my feelings. For me this was a beautiful and heartbreaking second chance love story but not any ordinary second chance love story. Theres such uniqueness and so much quirkiness that it will have you laughing, crying tears of joy and sadness.

For Rebel and Ruby teenage love story was beautiful until one fateful night. That changes their lives completely, separating them and plaguing them with secrets, guilt and mystery. Now their older secrets need to told!!

If you have never read one of AWW books and can on board with a little crazy then i urge you to do so. Because you'll enjoy the wonderful, colourful worlds she creates.
A. Wilding Wells i love and adore your books and can't wait to see what comes next. Because you can bet your socks i'm never getting off this crazy train!!

[Danielle Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've loved every book I have read by A. Wilding Wells and Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge did not disappoint! It was amazing and I devoured it so fast, that I was disappointed it ended!! The characters are quirky and fun! I love love Rebel Field, yeah he was a jerk at times but he's sexy and sweet and I want to be his sweet thing!! Ruby Rose is so sassy and I love her! This book gives you all the feels! It is definitely a must read!!

[Ash.loveofbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked into this story since chapter one and was intrigued throughout the entire book. I never know what to expect when reading a new book by A.Wilding Wells and I often am pleasantly surprised as to how it all turns out. That being said, I do know that I can expect an interesting read, with awesome characters to root for and fantastic writing. I really enjoyed this book. The storyline, the characters and their backstory were so interesting. Loved it! I can't wait to read what's next!

[Catherine Delk · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Thank you A. Wilding Wells for sending me this ARC for an honest review**

Another amazing story by A. Wilding Wells. I’ve loved every book I’ve ever read from A. Wilding Wells and this one’s know different. She take you on this journey from start to finish, you can help but be completely captivated.
Beautifully written, full of emotion and super suspenseful. I think I laughed and cried more with this read than any other. I absolutely fell in love with Ruby, Rebel, Echo, Monday, Etta, Rifle, and Rocket, plain and simple.
I can’t wait to read the next one!!!
Absolutely fantastic!!!!!

[Sanela · Rating 5 out of 5]

review to follow

[Fatima · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars ...

[Reading with 2 book lovers Sarah P - · Rating 5 out of 5]

ahh once again A Wilding Wells has done a fantastic job, her books are always different and intriguing and always have me from the get go.
Ruby and Rebel just make an amazing couple with great chemistry.
I so very much lived this book.
I voluntary read a copy of this book

[Maren Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual, AWW hits it out of the park! I loved this second chance romance with an enemies-to-lovers bent (because he's SO MAD at her for leaving) on top of a murder mystery! Such a fun story. I couldn't put it down! Well done!

[Indica Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is one of the hardest books to review, I have been dying to get a chance to read one of Tracy's books and when I received this ARC I thanked the heavens for the opportunity, little did I know that this book is gonna leave me in tears, both sad and happy, sad because it ended and happy because it is such a beautiful book, now I'm even more enthusiastic to read the rest of her books, This book really deserves more than five stars.
wait.
have I mentioned how beautifully this was written?
it has some powerful words! one of the many reasons I loved it!!
I really can't wait for everyone else to read it.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided in exchange of an honest review

Author: A. Wilding Wells
Genre: Romance
Format: Kindle ( ARC)


My Review:

There isn't anything that my sting queen touches that doesn't turns to gold so with that being said her latest book in the wild things series Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge is not gold at all but platinum.

It was captivating, alluring, crazy wild but one of the most beautiful things ever A. Wilding Wells has this way of taking you on adventures in her books every page is filled with magic and Ruby, Rebel hold that sparkle.

High school loves Ruby & Rebel had the promise of if all even at a young age but one night changed it all and their lives were alter along with their relationship. I can't say more cause that would just spoil it all just do yourself a favour and pick up Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge I promise you won't regret it!

My Final Thoughts:

A.Wilding Wells is a must read indie author her books are like fairytales for adults she pulls you in and not only takes a hold of your heart but your soul another 5 stars for this #stingqueen

[Mackenzie Bibliophile · Rating 5 out of 5]

An emotional rollercoaster is angst and secrets!

Oh my! This book was something else entirely! I wasn't sure what to expect but what I got could not have been predicted. Sunshine bleeds was so heartbreakingly beautiful from page one. I couldn't stop reading. No sleep for me until I finished it. I truly loved this book and even shed a few tears along the way as these characters worked through their personal pain and grief.

Sunshine Bleeds is not a book to skip over, there is gold in these pages that just needs to be shared. I would recommend it to anyone but especially anyone who loves an angsty read!
-Mackenzie

[Cinthia · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Do we have a chance like that? Can we take what we had back then—magic, love, and lust—and turn it into a future?"

Yet again another riveting and heartbreaking romance by the incomparable A Wilding Wells. This author never seizes to amaze me with her mesmerizing storyline and quirky cast of characters. They're not your typical romance stories but they've much heart and soul that they're simply irresistible. Sunshine Bleeds A Black Edge is no exception. This standalone romance is the third book in the Wild Things series. This second chance romance had me hooked from beginning to end. Ruby and Rebel's journey of forgiveness, love and redemption in compasses everything that I love about this author's stories. The love and hate relationship between these characters was so highly entertaining that I couldn't get enough of their comical and quirky banter. Not to mention the ongoing sexual tension and undeniable chemistry between these two made for some very memorable moments. Ruby has become one of favorite heroine from this series for her unwavering courage. Despite suffering through much heartache and a traumatic past, Ruby continued to be a fierce and inspirational character. Her journey was so gut-wrenching and heartbreaking at times that I couldn't help in rooting for her. This book will definitely pull on your heart strings.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A. Wilding Wells is my hero! Her writing is so magical and poetic and it makes me feel so many things, every single damn time. Sunshine Bleeds a Black Edge is filled with her usual stuff: quirky characters, beautiful emotion, heartbreaking events and love, so much love. But, this time it's tinged with something a little more. It's got a mystery at its core, it's in the background, but it informs every single action this cast takes. Especially Ruby and Rebel. And most especially Ruby.

Ruby is finally coming home, home to her mom and her brother, and home to the love of her life, Rebel. But, Rebel is angry at her, so very angry that he hates her, the woman he's loved most of his life. "Ruby Mae is home, and she's a hurricane. I need to love her. But first, I have to get over hating her." Rebel doesn't know the truth, and he wants to, so that he can forgive her for leaving him. What he doesn't know is that if anyone did something wrong, it's Rebel, not Ruby. No, Ruby endured something no one should ever have to endure, and it broke her, so she ran, and Rebel couldn't possibly understand that. So, instead, he stews in his own anger and hatred. But, when Ruby comes home in the flesh, he remembers how much he loves her, and he wants her back and he tries to get her back. If only he can forgive her as she asks, but how can he if she won't tell him the truth of why she left?

Ruby is lovely. She's so damaged, but she's so strong, such a survivor. "I know what I am. Dented and scratched, cracks filled with enough glue that I can mostly hold myself together." I was bleeding for her throughout the entire story. I knew something bad had happened, and yet she couldn't just put everyone out of their misery and say what had happened to her, well not until the end. She did confide in one person, but wouldn't let her tell the person it mattered to most: Rebel. I wish she had just told Rebel, but like she said, she was a martyr and martyrs martyr themselves, so she couldn't just tell him like she deserved to. No, she had to take on the pain, and the guilt, and the everything because she loved Rebel (and Opal) that much, that she took everything upon herself. Damn, girl! I give her major props for taking that on herself, but at the same time I wanted to smack her then shake her until she just blurted it out. Then she wouldn't have had to deal with Rebel's vile words when she came home. And she could have been with him this entire time if she had just blurted it out. Sigh...

And that brings me to Rebel. For the first time, ever, while reading one of Wells' stories, I am conflicted about one of her heroes. I wanted to like Rebel, and I did eventually. But at the same time, I kinda hated him, too. Because he was so cruel to Ruby throughout almost the entirety of their story. He was so judgmental and mean, and he let malicious, disgusting words come out of his mouth when he was talking to her. And he never really groveled or apologized enough. I guess it was enough for Ruby, of course, because she loved him so much, but it wasn't enough for me. I wanted him to get on his knees and beg her for her forgiveness. I wanted him to GROVEL, and he never really did. Yes, he was hurt that Ruby left him, but the things he said to her were really unforgivable. If he had said those words to me, he'd have seen my hand on his face and his head snapping back as I broke his nose. But, Ruby is much more forgiving than I. She's a martyr, something I have never been. Something she shouldn't have ever had to be.

Sunshine Bleeds a Black Edge is a beautiful story even with all its ugly secrets. It's about truth and forgiveness and pain and love and two people who fell in love with each other when they were kids, and never, ever fell out of love with each other. Even through a marriage and a child (Rebel's), traveling the world and coming back home again 17 years later. The truth is at the core of this story, and it was so, so important, and it never came out until the end. Until that time, Ruby and Rebel, Etta and Monday, Echo and Opal, Dick and Lenny, all suffered for that truth. Such an ugly, ugly thing the truth can be. But, thank God that love overcame that ugly truth and forgiveness fixed the scars.

I received an ARC for an honest review.