Wanted by Stephanie Kiser

In today’s fast-paced world, finding a romance novel that combines heartfelt emotion with genuine character development can be challenging. Stephanie Kiser’s “Wanted” delivers precisely this rare combination, offering readers an immersive journey through the complexities of love, redemption, and second chances. This contemporary romance stands out for its authentic portrayal of flawed characters seeking connection in a world that hasn’t always been kind to them. As we dive into this comprehensive review of “Wanted,” we’ll explore the intricate storytelling, character development, and thematic elements that make this book a standout addition to the romance genre.

What Is “Wanted” About? A Complete Plot Overview

“Wanted” is a contemporary romance novel that follows the emotionally charged journey of Amber Collins, a young woman with a troubled past who returns to her small hometown after years away, and Jackson Reed, the local sheriff with his own painful history who never expected to see her again. The story centers on their reconnection, the unresolved feelings between them, and their struggle to overcome both personal demons and external obstacles to find love and belonging.

The narrative begins with Amber’s reluctant return to Cedar Creek, the small town she fled eight years earlier following a devastating series of events that left her branded as trouble. With nowhere else to go after losing her job in the city, she’s forced to face the community that once judged her harshly. Jackson, now the town sheriff, has spent years building a respectable life after his own difficult childhood, but Amber’s return threatens to unravel the careful control he maintains over his emotions and reputation.

As these two wounded souls navigate their rekindled attraction, they must confront the painful truths of their shared history, challenge the town’s perceptions, and decide whether the risk of vulnerability is worth the chance at lasting happiness. Kiser weaves a tale that balances romance with personal growth, creating a story that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth. At Readlogy, we appreciate how the novel doesn’t shy away from difficult topics while maintaining an ultimately hopeful perspective on love’s transformative power.

Main Characters and Their Development

Amber Collins: The Returner With Baggage

Amber Collins begins the novel as a woman defined by her past mistakes and the harsh judgment of others. At 26, she returns to Cedar Creek with little more than a battered suitcase and emotional scars, having lost her waitressing job in the city and exhausted all other options. Her character is initially presented through the lens of town gossip—the wild child who caused trouble, broke hearts, and fled without looking back.

What makes Amber’s character compelling is the gradual revelation of her true nature beneath the defensive exterior. Throughout the novel, we learn that her rebellious reputation stemmed from a desperate need to escape an abusive home situation, and many of the town’s assumptions about her were built on misunderstandings and half-truths. Her character development follows a path of:

• Reclaiming her narrative and refusing to be defined by others’ perceptions
• Learning to trust again after years of believing she wasn’t worthy of genuine connection
• Developing self-forgiveness and embracing vulnerability as strength
• Finding purpose through her artistic talents that had been suppressed

By the novel’s conclusion, Amber transforms from someone running from her past to a woman standing firmly in her truth, capable of both giving and receiving love without fear of abandonment.

Jackson Reed: The Sheriff With a Secret Heart

Jackson Reed presents initially as the embodiment of law and order—the town’s respected sheriff who overcame his own troubled childhood to become a pillar of the community. At 30, his life appears meticulously structured and controlled, a stark contrast to his chaotic youth as the son of the town drunk.

Jackson’s character depth emerges through his internal struggle between his public persona and private feelings. Key aspects of his development include:

• Confronting his unresolved feelings for Amber and the role he played in her departure
• Challenging his need for community approval and the perfect image he’s constructed
• Reconciling his duty to the town with his personal desires and sense of justice
• Learning that true strength comes from authenticity rather than rigid control

His journey involves recognizing that the very qualities that drew him to Amber—her resilience, honesty, and unwillingness to conform—are what he needs to embrace within himself. By the story’s end, Jackson becomes a more integrated individual who can uphold justice while acknowledging human complexity.

Supporting Characters

The novel features a rich cast of supporting characters who provide depth to the narrative:

These characters serve to either challenge or support the protagonists’ growth, creating a community that feels authentic and multidimensional. The relationships throughout the book highlight Kiser’s talent for creating realistic interpersonal dynamics that readers at Readlogy consistently note feels genuine rather than contrived.

Setting and Atmosphere

Cedar Creek serves as more than just a backdrop to the romance—it functions almost as another character in the story. Kiser crafts a setting with distinct personality traits:

The Physical Environment:

• A picturesque small town nestled in the Pacific Northwest
• Surrounded by dense forests and mountains that create both beauty and isolation
• Seasonal changes that mirror the emotional evolution of the characters
• Landmarks with personal significance: the lake where Amber and Jackson first kissed, the diner where she now works, the small sheriff’s office

The Social Environment:

• A close-knit community where news travels fast and privacy is scarce
• Deeply entrenched family histories and reputations that span generations
• Traditional values that can provide both comfort and constraint
• The tension between preserving the town’s character and embracing change

The atmosphere shifts throughout the novel, beginning with a sense of claustrophobia and judgment that reflects Amber’s perspective upon her return. As the story progresses and both main characters begin to heal, the town itself seems to open up, revealing pockets of acceptance and beauty previously unseen. By the conclusion, Cedar Creek transforms from a place Amber was desperate to escape to a community where both she and Jackson can envision a future together.

Kiser’s descriptive prose brings the setting to life through sensory details—the scent of pine after rain, the familiar creak of the diner door, the way light filters through trees at the lake—creating an immersive experience that grounds the emotional journey in a tangible world. This attention to environmental detail has been praised by many Readlogy community members as one of the novel’s strengths.

How Does “Wanted” Compare to Other Romance Novels?

“Wanted” distinguishes itself in the contemporary romance landscape through several key elements that elevate it beyond genre conventions. While it incorporates familiar romance tropes, Kiser subverts expectations in ways that create a fresh, authentic reading experience.

When compared to other romance novels, “Wanted” stands out for its balanced approach to character development. Unlike romances that focus primarily on the female protagonist’s journey, Kiser gives equal weight to both Amber and Jackson’s emotional evolution. This dual perspective creates a more nuanced portrayal of relationship dynamics than is typical in the genre.

The novel also differs from many contemporary romances in its handling of small-town settings. Rather than presenting an idealized, quaint community that serves mainly as charming backdrop, Cedar Creek is portrayed with all its complexities—the support and judgment, the comfort and limitation. This realistic approach adds depth to the narrative and avoids the romanticized small-town trope common in the genre.

Key Differentiating Factors:

• Authentic Handling of Trauma: Unlike romances that use trauma as a plot device without addressing its realistic impact, “Wanted” explores how past wounds genuinely affect the characters’ ability to connect and trust. The healing process is depicted as ongoing rather than magically resolved by love alone.

• Balanced Heat Level: The physical relationship between Amber and Jackson evolves naturally from their emotional connection. The intimate scenes serve character development rather than existing solely for reader titillation—a refreshing approach in a market often divided between overtly explicit or completely clean romances.

• Complex Family Dynamics: The novel doesn’t shy away from difficult family relationships or offer simplistic resolutions. Both protagonists must navigate complicated family histories that have shaped their approach to relationships in realistic ways.

• Community Reconciliation: Beyond the central romance, the story addresses how individuals can find peace within communities that have hurt them—a theme less commonly explored in romance novels that typically focus exclusively on the couple.

As noted in several discussions on Readlogy’s romance forums, “Wanted” sits comfortably in the growing category of emotionally intelligent romance fiction that respects readers’ desire for both escapism and authentic human experience. It shares qualities with works by authors like Robyn Carr and Kristen Ashley, who similarly blend strong characters with community dynamics.

Writing Style and Narrative Techniques

Stephanie Kiser employs a distinctive writing style characterized by emotional honesty and carefully crafted dialogue. Her prose strikes a balance between accessibility and literary quality, making “Wanted” engaging for casual romance readers while offering sufficient depth for those seeking more substantial reading experiences.

Stylistic Elements:

• Dual POV Structure: The alternating perspectives between Amber and Jackson create dramatic irony, allowing readers to understand what each character misinterprets about the other. This technique builds tension while deepening reader investment in their connection.

• Internal Monologue: Kiser excels at revealing characters’ thoughts in ways that feel natural rather than expository. These glimpses into their minds highlight the gap between public presentation and private feelings—a central theme of the novel.

• Sensory-Rich Description: Environmental details are conveyed through multiple senses, creating an immersive reading experience that grounds emotional moments in physical reality.

• Dialogue Cadence: Conversations between characters have a natural rhythm with distinct speech patterns that reflect their personalities. Jackson’s measured responses contrast with Amber’s more direct communication style, creating authentic interactions.

Narrative Pacing:

The novel maintains tension through a carefully structured narrative arc. Unlike romances that rely solely on external conflicts to separate the couple, “Wanted” creates compelling internal obstacles that must be overcome for the relationship to succeed. Kiser alternates between high-emotion scenes and quieter moments of reflection, creating a reading experience that feels balanced rather than exhausting.

From a technical standpoint, one of Kiser’s strengths lies in her seamless integration of backstory. Rather than frontloading the narrative with exposition about the characters’ shared history, she reveals details gradually through meaningful encounters, allowing readers to piece together the past as the characters themselves confront their memories.

Themes and Messages Explored

“Wanted” explores several interconnected themes that elevate it beyond a simple love story to a thoughtful examination of human connection and personal growth:

Redemption and Second Chances:
Both protagonists grapple with the question of whether people can truly change and if past mistakes should define future opportunities. The novel suggests that redemption comes not just from others’ forgiveness but from self-acceptance and active choices to live differently.

The Nature of Belonging:
Amber’s relationship with Cedar Creek raises questions about what it means to belong somewhere. Is belonging about geography, relationships, or internal sense of self? The novel explores how we can create home in places that have both nurtured and wounded us.

Perception vs. Reality:
Throughout the narrative, characters confront the gap between public perception and private truth. This theme manifests in both the town’s misunderstanding of Amber and in how Jackson has constructed a perfect image that doesn’t allow for human vulnerability.

Breaking Generational Patterns:
Both protagonists come from troubled family backgrounds, raising the question of whether we are destined to repeat our parents’ mistakes. The novel suggests that awareness and conscious choice can interrupt negative cycles and create new possibilities.

Vulnerability as Strength:
Perhaps the most powerful message in “Wanted” is that true courage lies in opening oneself to potential hurt. Both Amber and Jackson must learn that protecting themselves from pain has also blocked their capacity for genuine connection.

These themes interweave throughout the narrative, creating a layered reading experience that invites reflection beyond the romantic elements. Many readers at Readlogy have commented that these deeper explorations make the novel particularly satisfying and memorable compared to more superficial offerings in the genre.

What Makes the Romance in “Wanted” Stand Out?

The romantic relationship in “Wanted” stands out primarily because it avoids the shortcut of instant attraction in favor of a complex emotional journey grounded in shared history. Amber and Jackson’s connection feels earned rather than contrived, developing through meaningful interactions that address both their chemistry and their conflicts.

Kiser excels at creating a romantic arc that balances tension with inevitability. Readers sense these characters belong together while understanding the legitimate obstacles in their path. This creates the satisfying push-pull dynamic that romance readers crave while avoiding frustrating misunderstandings that could be resolved with a simple conversation.

Key Elements of the Romance:

• Mutual Growth: Rather than one character “saving” the other, both Amber and Jackson must evolve to become worthy of the relationship. Their love serves as catalyst for personal development rather than its replacement.

• Authentic Conflict: The barriers between them stem from genuine psychological wounds and real-world complications rather than contrived scenarios. This creates stakes that feel meaningful rather than manufactured.

• Balanced Power Dynamic: Despite Jackson’s position of authority as sheriff, the relationship maintains equality through Amber’s emotional strength and unwillingness to compromise her identity. This creates a partnership of equals despite their different social standings.

• Emotional Intimacy Before Physical: While physical attraction plays a role, the most compelling moments in their relationship involve emotional vulnerability. The novel prioritizes conversation and understanding in building their connection.

• Community Context: Their relationship doesn’t exist in isolation but must function within the community’s scrutiny and judgment, adding a dimension of public versus private identity that enriches the romantic narrative.

The chemistry between Amber and Jackson radiates from the page through their loaded interactions, shared glances, and the tension of restraint. Kiser skillfully employs both explicit dialogue and unspoken understanding to illustrate their deepening bond, creating moments of connection that feel both passionate and emotionally resonant.

Handling of Tropes and Clichés

“Wanted” incorporates several classic romance tropes while subverting or refreshing them in ways that feel intentional rather than formulaic:

Second Chance Romance:
The novel embraces this popular trope but adds depth by examining what true second chances require—not just reuniting but addressing the root causes of past failure. Unlike simpler treatments of this trope, Kiser shows how both characters have changed during their separation, requiring them to rediscover each other rather than simply resuming where they left off.

Small Town Return:
While the premise of returning to one’s hometown is familiar in romance, Kiser avoids the cliché of the protagonist discovering that small-town life was wonderful all along. Instead, Amber’s relationship with Cedar Creek remains complicated, acknowledging both the healing and harm possible in close-knit communities.

Bad Girl/Good Guy Dynamic:
The novel initially presents this classic contrast but progressively deconstructs it, revealing that Amber’s reputation was largely undeserved and that Jackson’s perfect facade masks his own rebellious instincts. This nuanced approach transforms a potential cliché into commentary on social perception and authentic identity.

Authority Figure Romance:
The sheriff/town troublemaker dynamic creates inherent power imbalance that could be problematic. Kiser skillfully navigates this by establishing Amber’s agency and Jackson’s ethical boundaries, creating tension without crossing into uncomfortable territory.

By acknowledging these tropes while adding psychological depth and social context, “Wanted” offers readers the comfort of familiar romance frameworks while delivering a story that feels fresh and thoughtfully constructed.

Emotional Impact and Reader Connection

The emotional resonance of “Wanted” stems from Kiser’s ability to create moments of genuine vulnerability that invite reader investment. Several scenes stand out for their emotional impact:

• Amber’s first night back in her childhood bedroom, confronting memories she’s spent years avoiding
• Jackson’s realization that his perfect life feels empty despite his professional success
• Their first honest conversation about the night Amber left town
• A pivotal scene where Jackson publicly defends Amber against gossip, choosing her over community approval
• The moment Amber decides to trust Jackson with her complete truth, including parts she’s never shared with anyone

These emotional touchpoints are effectively crafted to avoid melodrama while still delivering cathartic impact. Kiser achieves this balance by grounding emotional revelations in specific sensory details and physical reactions, creating scenes that feel authentic rather than manipulative.

The novel particularly excels at creating moments of contrast—humor amidst tension, tenderness following conflict, hope emerging from disappointment. This emotional texture prevents the story from becoming monotonous or overly heavy despite addressing difficult themes.

Readers on Readlogy frequently mention connecting deeply with both protagonists’ emotional journeys, particularly their struggle to reconcile past and present selves. This universal theme of self-acceptance transcends the specific circumstances of the story, creating broader appeal beyond romance readers.

What Are the Strengths and Weaknesses of “Wanted”?

Notable Strengths

Character Authenticity:
The most significant strength of “Wanted” lies in its well-developed, believable characters who act from clearly established motivations. Amber and Jackson feel like real people navigating complex emotions rather than romance archetypes fulfilling prescribed roles. Their flaws make them relatable while their growth feels earned through genuine effort rather than narrative convenience.

Dialogue Excellence:
Kiser demonstrates particular skill in crafting dialogue that reveals character, advances plot, and creates emotional resonance simultaneously. Conversations feel natural while still maintaining the heightened emotional impact readers expect from romance. Characters have distinct voices that reflect their personalities and backgrounds.

Setting Integration:
Cedar Creek becomes an integral part of the storytelling rather than merely decorative backdrop. The physical and social environment shapes the characters’ choices and relationship dynamics in meaningful ways. Kiser’s descriptive prose creates a vivid sense of place that enhances reader immersion.

Emotional Intelligence:
The novel displays remarkable insight into human psychology, particularly regarding how past trauma affects present relationships. Characters process emotions in realistic ways rather than moving through prescribed romantic beats, creating a story that feels psychologically sound.

Balanced Pacing:
“Wanted” maintains narrative momentum while still allowing space for character development and emotional processing. The structure alternates effectively between external action and internal reflection, creating a reading experience that feels neither rushed nor stagnant.

Areas for Improvement

Secondary Character Development:
While the main characters receive nuanced treatment, some secondary characters—particularly the antagonistic Mayor Simmons—occasionally veer toward one-dimensionality. Greater exploration of their motivations would create a more fully realized narrative world.

Predictable Story Beats:
Though the emotional journey feels fresh, the overall plot structure follows relatively predictable romance patterns. More surprising narrative turns could elevate the storytelling further, particularly in the middle section where the relationship development follows somewhat expected patterns.

Uneven Backstory Distribution:
Amber’s history receives more detailed exploration than Jackson’s, creating slight imbalance in their character arcs. Additional insight into formative experiences that shaped Jackson’s worldview would strengthen his character development.

Resolution Pacing:
The novel’s conclusion, while emotionally satisfying, resolves some long-standing conflicts somewhat quickly compared to their careful development. A slightly expanded resolution would allow readers to more fully experience the emotional payoff of the characters’ journeys.

Limited Social Context:
While the small-town dynamics are well portrayed, the novel exists somewhat in isolation from broader societal issues that would realistically affect the characters’ lives. Greater acknowledgment of these external factors would add another dimension to the storytelling.

Despite these areas for potential improvement, “Wanted” delivers a remarkably satisfying reading experience that prioritizes emotional authenticity over formulaic romance conventions. The strengths significantly outweigh the weaknesses, creating a novel that resonates long after the final page.

Who Would Enjoy Reading “Wanted”?

“Wanted” would appeal to several distinct reader groups based on its content, themes, and storytelling approach:

Contemporary Romance Enthusiasts
Readers who appreciate emotionally intelligent romance with substantive character development will find “Wanted” particularly satisfying. The novel delivers the essential genre elements—compelling chemistry, emotional tension, and satisfying resolution—while offering greater psychological depth than many category romances.

Second-Chance Romance Fans
Those specifically drawn to reunion romances will appreciate how “Wanted” explores this trope with nuance and authenticity. The history between Amber and Jackson creates layers of complexity that lovers of second-chance narratives will find compelling.

Small-Town Fiction Readers
Fans of authors like Robyn Carr, Mariah Stewart, and RaeAnne Thayne who enjoy community-based narratives will appreciate the well-realized setting and interconnected character relationships in Cedar Creek.

Character-Driven Fiction Readers
Readers who prioritize character development over plot twists will connect with Kiser’s focus on internal growth and relationship evolution. The novel’s strength lies in its psychological realism rather than high-concept scenarios.

Women’s Fiction Crossover Audience
While firmly a romance, “Wanted” shares qualities with women’s fiction through its exploration of self-discovery, community relationships, and personal growth beyond the romantic relationship. This makes it accessible to readers who typically prefer women’s fiction but are open to romance elements.

The ideal reader for “Wanted” values emotional authenticity, appreciates the complexity of human relationships, and enjoys stories where character growth drives the narrative forward. While the novel contains some intimate scenes, they’re written with taste and purpose, making the book appropriate for most adult romance readers regardless of their preference for explicit content.

Based on reader feedback compiled at Readlogy, “Wanted” particularly resonates with:

• Readers in their late 20s to mid-40s who can relate to the themes of reconciling past and present selves
• Those who have experienced the complexity of hometown returns after significant absence
• Readers who appreciate romance that acknowledges realistic obstacles without becoming overwhelmingly dark

Similar Books and Authors

If you enjoy “Wanted,” you might also appreciate these similar works and authors:

These recommendations share Kiser’s commitment to character development and emotional authenticity while offering their own unique storytelling strengths. Many Readlogy members who enjoyed “Wanted” have found these authors provide similarly satisfying reading experiences.

What Are the Key Takeaways From “Wanted”?

“Wanted” offers several profound insights that extend beyond the romantic storyline, providing readers with meaningful takeaways that resonate in real life:

1. True Belonging Requires Authenticity
Both protagonists learn that acceptance based on false pretenses or suppressed identity isn’t genuine belonging. The novel suggests that being truly “wanted” means being embraced for who you authentically are, not who others wish you to be. This message resonates particularly through Amber’s journey from outcast to finding her place on her own terms.

2. Redemption Begins With Self-Forgiveness
Before either character can fully accept love, they must forgive themselves for past mistakes. The novel demonstrates that self-condemnation often lasts long after others have moved on, and releasing this internal judgment is essential for growth. Jackson’s journey especially highlights how perfectionism can be a response to shame rather than a path to virtue.

3. Perception Shapes Reality But Doesn’t Define It
Through the town’s misunderstanding of Amber’s history, Kiser explores how gossip and judgment create narratives that can trap individuals. However, the story ultimately affirms that while we cannot control others’ perceptions, we can refuse to let them define our sense of self.

4. Vulnerability Is the Foundation of Genuine Connection
The novel’s most powerful moments occur when characters risk emotional exposure despite past hurts. This reinforces the paradoxical truth that protecting ourselves from pain also prevents us from experiencing deep connection. Both protagonists must learn that worthwhile relationships require the courage to be vulnerable.

5. Breaking Cycles Requires Conscious Choice
Through both characters’ family histories, “Wanted” examines how patterns of behavior transfer between generations. The story affirms that while our backgrounds influence us, they need not determine our futures. Conscious awareness and deliberate choices can interrupt negative cycles and create new possibilities.

These insights give “Wanted” substance beyond typical romance, offering readers not just escapism but meaningful reflection on their own relationships and personal growth. The novel’s ability to entertain while exploring these deeper themes distinguishes it within the contemporary romance genre.

Personal Growth Lessons

Beyond the broader thematic takeaways, “Wanted” offers specific personal growth lessons that readers might apply to their own lives:

• The importance of questioning inherited beliefs about ourselves and others
• How to balance protecting our hearts with remaining open to connection
• The value of facing difficult truths rather than avoiding them
• Ways to reconcile different aspects of identity when they seem in conflict
• The possibility of finding purpose through creative expression and authentic connection

These lessons emerge organically through the characters’ journeys rather than feeling didactic or preachy. Kiser trusts readers to draw their own conclusions from the narrative, creating a more impactful learning experience than explicit moralizing would achieve.

How Does “Wanted” End? Complete Conclusion Analysis

The conclusion of “Wanted” brings both character arcs and relationship dynamics to a satisfying resolution while avoiding overly neat solutions to complex problems. This balance of hopefulness and realism creates an ending that feels earned rather than contrived.

Final Conflict Resolution:
The climactic confrontation occurs when Mayor Simmons publicly accuses Amber of theft at a community event, attempting to force her out of town once again. This moment crystalizes the novel’s themes as Jackson must choose between his carefully maintained reputation and standing up for Amber. His public declaration of belief in her innocence—and eventually love for her—represents the culmination of his character arc from someone who prioritized community approval to a man willing to risk judgment for what he knows is right.

Amber’s Growth Completion:
Amber’s final arc completes when she chooses to stay and fight rather than flee Cedar Creek as she did in the past. By presenting evidence that clears her name and openly sharing parts of her history that she had kept hidden, she reclaims her narrative and forces the town to see beyond their preconceptions. This represents her evolution from someone defined by others to a woman who defines herself.

Relationship Resolution:
The romantic resolution occurs in layers, with the initial declaration followed by more private conversations where both characters articulate what they need from each other to build a lasting relationship. Unlike many romance novels where the declaration of love magically resolves all issues, Kiser shows them actively discussing boundaries, expectations, and concerns. This adult approach to commitment makes their happy ending feel sustainable rather than merely emotional.

Community Integration:
The novel doesn’t present a simplistic town-wide redemption where everyone suddenly embraces Amber. Instead, it shows a realistic mixed response—some community members reconsider their judgments while others maintain their distance. This nuanced portrayal of community dynamics avoids undermining the authentic challenges established throughout the narrative.

Future Direction:
The conclusion provides clear direction for the characters’ future without resorting to an extended epilogue. Amber begins establishing her art studio with Jackson’s support, suggesting her path to professional fulfillment. Their discussion of renovating her family home symbolizes reclaiming and transforming painful history rather than erasing it. These elements provide closure while maintaining the sense that their story continues beyond the page.

The ending succeeds because it addresses both external conflicts and internal evolution, showing how the characters have grown while acknowledging that growth remains an ongoing process. This approach creates an emotionally satisfying conclusion that remains consistent with the novel’s psychological realism.

Epilogue and Future Possibilities

While “Wanted” stands as a complete story, the epilogue hints at potential for future narratives within the Cedar Creek community. Several supporting characters—particularly Jackson’s sister Sophia and Amber’s friend Elena—receive sufficient development to sustain their own stories. The novel’s conclusion leaves several intriguing possibilities open:

• The ongoing transformation of Cedar Creek’s social dynamics
• The evolution of Amber and Jackson’s relationship as they build a life together
• The potential redemption of certain antagonistic characters
• Exploration of other community members with complex backstories

These openings suggest Kiser could potentially develop “Wanted” into a series while still maintaining the satisfying completeness of the initial story. Many readers at Readlogy have expressed interest in returning to Cedar Creek for additional narratives featuring both new protagonists and continued glimpses of Amber and Jackson’s journey.

Final Verdict: Is “Wanted” Worth Reading?

“Wanted” earns a strong recommendation for readers seeking emotionally intelligent contemporary romance that balances authentic character development with satisfying romantic elements. The novel delivers a compelling reading experience that rewards investment with meaningful insights and genuine emotional payoff.

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Standout Strengths:

• Character development that prioritizes psychological realism over romantic formulas
• Skillful handling of complex themes including redemption, belonging, and authenticity
• Evocative sense of place that integrates setting with character journey
• Dialogue that feels genuine while advancing both plot and emotional development
• Balance of hope and realism that avoids both cynicism and naivety

Kiser demonstrates remarkable skill in crafting characters who feel like real people facing genuine emotional challenges rather than romance archetypes moving through prescribed scenarios. This authenticity creates an immersive reading experience that resonates beyond typical genre offerings.

While acknowledging the minor weaknesses in secondary character development and occasional predictability, these elements don’t significantly diminish the novel’s overall impact. “Wanted” succeeds in its primary aims—delivering a satisfying romance while exploring meaningful themes about identity, community, and personal growth.

For readers seeking substantive contemporary romance with emotional depth, “Wanted” represents time well spent. The novel offers both the comfort of genre satisfaction and the reward of thoughtful exploration of human connection. At Readlogy, we’ve found that books like “Wanted” that balance entertainment with emotional intelligence create the most memorable reading experiences and generate the most engaging community discussions.

Who Should Skip This Book

While “Wanted” has broad appeal within its genre, certain readers might not connect with the novel based on their preferences:

• Readers seeking high-concept plots with unexpected twists will find the story’s focus on character over plot may not provide sufficient excitement
• Those who prefer romance completely free of community drama might find the small-town dynamics frustrating
• Readers looking for escapist fantasy without realistic complications may find the characters’ emotional processing too grounded
• Those who prefer historical settings or paranormal elements will obviously find this contemporary narrative outside their interest

Even with these considerations, “Wanted” remains a standout contemporary romance that delivers both emotional satisfaction and thoughtful exploration of human relationships. Stephanie Kiser has created a memorable debut that establishes her as a promising voice in emotionally intelligent romance fiction.

Where To Find and Purchase “Wanted”

“Wanted” by Stephanie Kiser is available through multiple retail channels in various formats to suit different reading preferences:

Print Editions:

• Hardcover: Available through major bookstores including Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, and independent booksellers
• Paperback: Widely distributed through Amazon, Target, Walmart, and most physical bookstores

Digital Editions:

• Kindle: Available on Amazon with Kindle Unlimited eligibility
• Nook: Available through Barnes & Noble’s digital platform
• Kobo: Available for Kobo e-readers and app
• Apple Books: Available for iOS devices through the Apple Books store

Audio Format:

• Audiobook: Available through Audible, narrated by voice actor Jessica Williams
• Library audio: Available through Libby/Overdrive for library patrons

For readers interested in exploring this novel, Readlogy offers a comprehensive chapter-by-chapter analysis with discussion questions for book clubs, available exclusively on our website. We also feature an in-depth interview with Stephanie Kiser discussing her inspiration and creative process for “Wanted” that provides valuable context for appreciating the novel’s themes and character development.

To purchase “Wanted” while supporting independent bookstores, consider ordering through Bookshop.org, which shares profits with local booksellers. Most public libraries also carry “Wanted” in multiple formats, making it accessible to readers on any budget.

The recommended retail price is $16.99 for paperback, $26.99 for hardcover, $9.99 for ebook formats, and $24.95 for the audiobook, though prices may vary by retailer and special promotions.