Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book.
I really enjoyed this book. Vivian’s cousin is kidnapped so she had not other choice but to go ask help to the Wynchesters, which she hates. Jacob is a nice MMC, he’s a secret poet. Vivian is an aspiring playwright. When they first meet, they clashed but as the story develops, they see how much they are similar. They each push eachother to be better, even if it might not be the right way. At the end they are able to communicate and make things right which I liked. I also liked how there was an intrigue/mystery in this romance. It made the story more engaging. Overall I enjoyed this book and recommend it if you like a good historical romance with well rounded characters!

I've been waiting for Jacob's entry in the Wild Wynchesters series because I have found his work with highly trained animals to be so funny in so many of the other books. He finally gets his own romantic storyline in this book (which may be the final book in the series?) when he finds himself completely taken with Vivian Henry, an unpublished playwright and former enslaved person from Demerera who is absolutely unimpressed by the Wynchesters, who she considers to be completely unaware of their many privileges as they break the law and bend the rules. Unfortunately for Vivian, her 18 year old cousin Quentin is missing, the Bow Street Runners don't care, and she knows that her Wynchesters-obsessed cousin would want her to seek out their help. Vivian and Jacob have an immediate attraction, and Vivian is able to fit in with the Wynchesters right away - despite her resentment and distrust of them - as they work together to find Quentin. This was definitely a slow burn, and Vivian and Jacob have some frustrating communication issues (that won't be a total surprise to romance readers), but I enjoyed these two interesting characters and, of course, all of Jacob's animals. Content warnings for discussions of enslavement, kidnapping, murder (in the past, but described on page), racism, and snakes.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed each book in this series and this was, by far, my favorite! Jacob finally finds his purpose in the most unexpected place. The rallying of all Wynchesters makes the family unity fun, loving and strong. The excitement kept building on all fronts. The suspense and action were perfect. Vivian had the best, and annoying in a good way, personality. A must read

The summary of the book sounded really promising, and I love to see more diverse characters in historical romance - a genre that doesn't see a lot of diversity, given the nature of the setting. I really liked the characters, as they were interesting with different family dynamics (Viv + Quentin's cousin relationship vs the Wynchesters being found family). The premise of a mystery of her missing cousin was intriguing for sure. Despite all of these elements that I enjoyed, I struggled with the writing style. It may be the mix of modern writing style but use of language that you might see in historical fiction. I don't think that this should detract anyone from reading it, but from a personal standpoint, it made it harder for me to maintain interest in the storyline throughout.

I also later found out that this is the final book of the series, which explains a lot of my confusion. I think when I have the chance, I would read the other books first, and then reread this book and give it another chance.

A Waltz on the Wild Side is part of Erica Ridley’s The Wild Wynchester Series and, although I am a huge fan of Ms. Ridley, this was probably my least favorite read.

The main character, Vivian Henry, must find and rescue her kidnapped ward/cousin who leaves their modest home after a contentious spat. After exhausting all avenues available to her, she turns to the Wild Wynchesters for help. What ensues is a nonstop investigation with (I am sorry to say) and too many winding threads.

Although the overall plot was unique and entertaining, I felt that the main character, Vivian, is an obnoxious, overbearing and – for me – just not a wholly likeable character. Yes, she undergoes a transformation and is ultimately “enlightened,” and I am sure that was the intent of the author, but the journey in getting there was long and arduous. With that being said, I give the author a solid 4-star rating and, as a devoted fan, I look forward to the next Erica Ridley novel.

Unfortunately I just couldn’t get into this book the way I wanted to. I’ll try again when I’m in a different reading mood!

This book was wonderful! It is part of an interconnected series of standalone romance books. I loved the romance in this book a lot!

*this should be read after the others in series.

I came to the series as a stand-alone and despite enjoying it… I quickly realized that I was missing context or that extra layer of sentiments to make this book land.
Other than that, I actually thought it was overall really cute and e joyed the romance. But it def felt like I was reading about something I had missed an assignment in if that makes sense! Haha

I'm torn on how to review this one because on one hand, it's a Wild Winchester book so it will naturally get a higher rating for me because I love this series (and family so much). However, I think it really fell flat for me as the final book in the series (at least I am assuming this is the final book in the series). Jacob's character really did nothing for me (I did think he was going to be written as queer so maybe my expectations were off) and Viv didn't really have any flaws so I didn't really see any character growth and so I wasn't as interested in the plot (or their romance to be honest).

Oh , these Wild Wynchesters are at it again! This is Jacob’s story and it is one WILD ride! Vivian has lost her cousin, Quentin, or is he? Jacob wants to just take care of his animals and write poetry. They clash immediately and chaos ensues as each Wynchester has their hands full with more cases than they can handle. I enjoyed Vivian’s take on life, as I had never really thought about how someone would feel being subservient to another. Her character is well written, even her hardened attitude and unwillingness to see beyond “black and white, good vs evil” with no gray in between . The mystery surrounding the case keeps the reader guessing and waffling between who truly was the villain. The animals are adorable (as always) and the joy of watching all of them together “fixing” the issue was hilarious . Seeing Vivian’s own special talent was fun and interesting. Each of them push each other to be the ‘better’ self and I was glad each got their chance. Simply lovely story, somewhat steamy and absolutely NO crass language- thank you author!

I received this story for free and these are my own opinions

A Waltz on the Wild Side was a warm send-off to the Wild Wynchesters series. In this installment we finally get a glimpse behind the curtain of the enigmatic animal whisperer Jacob. The book runs the gamut, catching up with all the previous pairs and setting things up for us to imagine the future. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Viv and Jacob and their blossoming HEA. Viv is a little headstrong in her dislike of the Wynchesters and her rashness in making assumptions. I do wish more was made of her ability to notice detail. Jacob was everything you can expect of him; gentle, shy, unwavering in support of those he loves. There was also a good portrayal of the challenges of being brown and/or female in 19th century England. All in all a solid read and a definite must read for Wynchester fans.

It breaks my heart to say good-bye to the Wild Wynchesters, but A Waltz on the Wild Side gave them quite a send-off. Those who have been reading the series from the start will appreciate how the siblings, their caseload, and their personal lives have evolved since The Duke Heist. Those coming to it now will still enjoy the story, but might not fully appreciate certain aspects (e.g., Tommy’s many disguises, Marjorie’s colors).
After all Jacob’s disdain for Sir Gareth Jallow, I was all but certain his book was going to be an enemies-to-lovers story. That is not what’s happened here, but his beloved was still an interesting character who brought a new perspective to the series, not to mention some keen insights about writing. (P.S. Jallow does make an appearance in a surprising way!)

This book was an enjoyable end to the Wild Wynchesters. While I liked Vivian and Jacob's romance, I was hoping for more information about Jacob's background than we got in the novel. It was lovely to see all the Wynchesters back in action.

I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

"Wynchesters do impossible things every day!"


A Waltz on the Wild Side is the sixth book in The Wild Wynchesters Series. In this, you will meet Vivian Henry and Jacob Wynchester. Now if you've read the previous books in this series, then you've already met Jacob. You also already watched his siblings fall in love. Now it's his turn.

Of course, he has his work cut out for him because Vivian does not like the Wynchesters. Now this seems to be a trend with the romantic love interests so I was sure she was going to start changing her mind at one point (just like the rest). These two have a lot in common: writing, liking each other, and working with animals. Though, I do not think I would be friends with Vivian if she ever unleashed Sally near me.

Anyways, they work together to find her cousin Quentin, who goes missing. Eventually they get clues that will help them figure out where he is and how to save him. But along the way these two do start to develop feelings for one another. It's also hilarious that his family kept pushing for it to happen as well. The only thing that did annoy me was how quickly Viv was to be angry with the Wynchesters. She definitely rubbed me the wrong way for a handful of chapters.

Other than that, it was cute. They solved the mystery, saved the day, and everyone's happy in the end. Well, I guess not everyone. They still have battles to solve and dream of equality one day. I'm not sure if this will be the last book or not but I wouldn't say no to another book. Or heck, even a spinoff.

Vivian is a playwright who lives with her younger cousin. He turns up missing and the police won't help her so she goes to the Wynchester family for help. Jacob is a poet and is one of the many colorful people and pets in that family.
I had not read the entire series, except for Tommy and Philippa's book. For best understanding, I recommend reading all of the series. It was enjoyable seeing such a loving family and their wild capers. And of course, I love notable pets!
This is an open door romance.
Thank you to Forever for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.

“A Waltz on the Wild Side”, by Erica Ridley is the 6th and final book of the Wild Wynchesters series. It’s a shame that this is the last book because, although this book is the best and most satisfying as it brings all the Winchesters together, I hate to see the series end! The setting is 19th century London. The heroine is Vivian Henry, a struggling playwright, who is the guardian to her young cousin Quentin. Vivian was a former slave in another country, but Quentin’s mom was able to arrange for her to come to London to help care for Quentin. Quentin and his friends are obsessed with the Wynchester family to the point of dressing like them and imitating them. The Wynchesters are a motley group of 6 people who were orphans adopted by a rich aristocrat, and their unconventional upbringing leads them to band together to solve problems for the poor and disadvantaged. Vivian is always cautioning Quentin against taking risks as he and his friends try to emulate the Wynchesters; she points out that she and Quentin are Black and certainly not rich so they don’t have the same protections from prosecution as the Wynchesters have. After Vivian and Quentin have a fight over this topic, Quentin goes missing. Vivian tries to question all his friends about his possible whereabouts, but eventually she reluctantly turns to the Wynchesters to help her find her cousin. She meets Jacob Wynchester, who is a Black poet and animal trainer, along with his 5 other siblings. All the Wynchesters are diverse, talented people who work hard to help others, and as Vivian gets to know them, she cannot help but use her imaginative talents to aid them in helping others. All the other 5 books in the series are full of zany crime solving antics, and the author makes a point of showing that people can be different from each other, whether in skin color, sexual orientation, or medical conditions, and still be valuable, independent people. What makes this book so interesting is that, from the start, Vivian questions whether the Wynchesters are truly doing good by raising false hopes in young people like her cousin, who believes he can do crime fighting without risking harm. Also, Vivian seeks to gain notice for her written plays through sheer persistence and direct means, whereas Jacob chooses a different path to success as a poet. I highly recommend this book, which I was able to read via an ARC from NetGalley. Although the book can be read as a standalone, it’s more fun if you have read the other books first so you are familiar with all the characters. And the entire family is in quite a lot of this book, which is nice as we say farewell to the Winchester family in this final book.

Jacob’s story is the perfect send-off for the Wynchesters
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This was my first read from Erica Ridley, and I completely understand the love for this series—what a charming, chaotic, and heartfelt family the Wynchesters are! A Waltz on the Wilde Side brings a satisfying conclusion to the Wild Wynchesters series, focusing on the elusive, poetry-loving Jacob and the fiercely independent Vivian Henry, who may just be my favorite FMC in the series.

Vivian is sharp, unyielding, and unapologetically passionate. While her no-nonsense attitude and abrasiveness rubbed some readers the wrong way, I actually loved how bold and deeply principled she was. Watching her gradually lower her guard and find both trust and belonging was incredibly satisfying. And Jacob—gentle, poetic Jacob—is the exact balance she needed. Their romance felt like a slow burn in the best way, unfolding with tenderness and mutual growth.

This book also gave us what I love most about this series: wild Wynchester antics, found family dynamics, social justice themes, and a romance that’s more than just longing—it’s about partnership, healing, and shared purpose. Even though this can be read as a standalone, longtime readers will appreciate the full-circle moments and returning faces that wrap up the series beautifully.

If you love Regency romance with heart, clever writing, and characters who challenge societal norms, this finale won’t disappoint. I’m so glad I started with this one—it won’t be my last Erica Ridley read!

Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC.

Erica Ridley never disappoints when she comes out with a new Wynchester story. This one highlights Jacob Wynchester as well as an unpublished playwright, Vivian Henry, who is seeking help in finding her missing cousin. Vivian dislikes the Wynchester, but after all her efforts to learn what has happened to her cousin have failed, she feels the Wynchesters are her only chance. This story keeps your attention the entire time. I certainly recommend this story. I read an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

3.5 stars

I enjoyed the final Wynchester getting his story. We finally find out more about the poetry! The FMC was interesting with strong opinions and beliefs she did not back down from. I love how she also had trained animals. It was an enjoyable read.

I skimmed through about 50% before I had to DNF. The FMC is simply unbearable to me. I get that she is "prickly" but all she does the entire book is find fault with the family who is trying to HELP her. Who have done nothing but be warm & welcoming to her. I just couldn't stand her at all. The family antics together were great though!

Thank you Berkley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!