The synopsis for The Wild Side by Fern Michaels sounded intriguing. Unfortunately, the story fell flat. The first half or so of the book felt like a biography as we learn about Melanie’s upbringing, education, and work history (I kept wondering when there would be some of the promised action). There is no mystery, action, or suspense (this section helped my insomnia). The pacing is leisurely. Melanie going undercover is towards the end of the book. It ended so quickly (I said, “that’s it?”). The conclusion was rushed. I was happy that there was little romance. The story had too much build up. I did not feel the school counselor and the OSI agent storylines went together (seemed odd). We got detailed descriptions on some high-end fashions and perfumes (did we really need to know each perfume she paired with each outfit/persona). I loved the retired service dogs that Melanie was coerced into adopting. Unfortunately, I did not find The Wild Side to be an enjoyable reading experience. ( )

Another great story from an excellent author, Fern Michaels. This is the story of Melanie Drake and her life. The story details the two careers of this woman and many of her escapades. This is a book to devour if you are a fan of Fern Michaels. ( )

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A seemingly ordinary guidance counselor goes undercover as a high-class escort to bring down a dangerous network of ruthless and powerful men in the gripping new standalone page-turner from legendary, #1 international bestseller Fern Michaels. The season’s must-read for fans of Nora Roberts, Danielle Steel, James Patterson, and Janet Evanovich.

For Melanie Drake, school guidance counselor in a small Virginia town, the day’s challenges typically involve a playground scuffle or a student skipping school. It’s worlds away from her previous career as a vital part of the Office of Special Investigations. There, she devoted herself heart and soul to covert operations, the riskier the better.

Since leaving, Melanie has cherished her peaceful, calm existence, with her two beloved retired service dogs for company. Then a call comes from her former supervisor, Rich Patterson. He needs her back for a highly specialized assignment. An international group of billionaires is known to meet regularly for decadent dinners, and they always hire high-class escorts for the occasion. Only the most elegant, well-educated, and sophisticated women will do. Infiltrating those meetings could yield information vital to national security.

Melanie’s loyalty is indisputable. She’s willing to pose as an escort and glean every scrap of intel that she can. But these men aren’t just wealthy and powerful, they’re also exceptionally ruthless. One slip, and they won’t hesitate to eliminate Melanie, by any means necessary. . . ( )