The Maverick

WaterFyre Rising #7

by Nadia Han

Calculated and driven, Attikus Mount is a museum owner consumed with catching the man responsible for destroying his entire family. Nothing and no one could sway his plan until a stunning woman splashes onto his life like a bold paint stroke, recreating his perfectly curated scheme.

Vanessa Lam is a cunning artist with a deep scar that needs more than healing. Her marriage to Attikus is supposed to be a simple contract detached from emotions. But now her heart wants more, and she’s willing to blur the contractual fine print in a dangerous game that could shatter them both.

As their romance solidifies and the truth of their past unravels, Attikus must protect the woman he loves or abandon her to go after the enemy who had destroyed his life.

Tropes:
Age-gap
Slow burn romance
Hidden Identity
Forced Proximity
Morally Gray Billionaire
Vengeance Driven
Angst and Steam
Lots of Suspense

Genres: Billionaire Romance, Romance, Suspense, Fake Dating, Ebooks

ebook

Published April 1, 2025

About the author

Nadia Han is a dreamer, a visionary, and a believer in karma and kindness. She lives in New England with her family and spends most of her time crafting stories. When she’s not writing, she practices yoga, reads, explores nature, and eats all kinds of foods.

Website: https://www.nadiahan.com
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Reviews

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars
Caution: This book contains sexual content, profanity, violence, kidnapping, and mentions of sex trafficking. Recommended for ages 18 and older.
The Maverick is the seventh and final instalment in the fantastic WaterFyre Rising series. It is no secret that WaterFyre Rising is one of my favourite series. While it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with The Investor to appreciate the characters and the overall storyline fully.
Each book in the series gets better than the last. This final entry features a well-crafted plot centred around forced proximity, an enemies-to-lovers arc, and a fake marriage; all set against an engaging backdrop of drama, tension, suspense, and mystery.
Things become complicated when the protagonist must choose between the person who brings vibrancy to his life and someone seeking vengeance. Both characters are shaped by their secrets and haunted by their pasts. Will his choice lead to their destruction?
The events of the previous books have all built toward this overarching storyline and dramatic finale.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars
Caution: This book contains sexual content, profanity, violence, kidnapping, and mentions of sex trafficking. Recommended for ages 18 and older.
The Maverick is the seventh and final instalment in the fantastic WaterFyre Rising series. It is no secret that WaterFyre Rising is one of my favourite series. While it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with The Investor to appreciate the characters and the overall storyline fully.
Each book in the series gets better than the last. This final entry features a well-crafted plot centred around forced proximity, an enemies-to-lovers arc, and a fake marriage; all set against an engaging backdrop of drama, tension, suspense, and mystery.
Things become complicated when the protagonist must choose between the person who brings vibrancy to his life and someone seeking vengeance. Both characters are shaped by their secrets and haunted by their pasts. Will his choice lead to their destruction?
The events of the previous books have all built toward this overarching storyline and dramatic finale.

[Lacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Museum owner Attikus Mount and gallery owner Vanessa Lam’s lives collide after someone threatens her life and they marry to protect her, discovering a connection that’s deeper than attraction. Billionaire Attikus’ life has been driven by his pursuit of revenge against the man that destroyed his life when he and his friends beat him as a teen and murdered his parents and sister. Until he meets Vanessa, nothing else matters or is more important to him.

Motivated by deep pain and scars that can’t be seen, talented artist Vanessa is determined to save and rescue her mother from prison, where she’s been serving a prison sentence for a crime she didn’t commit. Threats against her life disrupt her plans. She’s willing to do whatever it takes to achieve her goal, including marrying a man she barely knows.

However, the contract marriage she and Attikus sign intending to be free of emotions is anything but. Their connection and attraction deepen into romance as they plan their wedding, marry, and spend a romantic honeymoon growing closer, only for past truths and reality to emerge upon their return. Attikus reaches a crossroads where he must choose whether to protect the woman he loves or continue pursuing vengeance against his enemy for destroying his life.

Han writes intense, well-crafted action, suspense, and dramatic scenes that are often dark in tone and content. But she wonderfully balances the novel’s romance, suspense, humor, steam, and angst. Her characters’ love for each other, friendship, empathy, and determination to protect, save, and avenge those they care for make them relatable, likable, and fascinating, while also fallible. She develops them through humorous, intensely emotional, snarky, steamy, intimate, and sexy interactions; suspenseful and action scenes; and intertwined painful pasts.

I love Attikus and Vanessa’s interactions, which are funny, snarky, chemistry-filled, sweet, steamy, intimate, and sexy. They’re two people with traumatic pasts, who found each other and share an intense connection, fiery and electric attraction. Vanessa and Attikus are soulmates who bring balance to one another’s lives. They get each other and see the person behind the facades and protective barriers they’ve built and learn to trust and be emotionally vulnerable. She makes him smile, feel peace, inspires his creativity, and gives him something to live for besides revenge and anger. He encourages and supports her creativity and dreams and makes her feel safe and that she’s no longer alone.

Of Vietnamese and Haitian descent, Vanessa Lam became a Botanist because she loves studying plants and flowers give her hope. But because of her mother’s unjust imprisonment, she wasn’t able to pursue her graduate education. Resilient, she began painting under the name of Nessa Lambert, an artist known for floral, landscape, and abstract paintings to make a living and save to help her mother. Painting helps Vanessa to release untamed emotions. Unfortunately, she’s being harassed and blackmailed by her ex-boyfriend, and it’s affecting her ability to save and free her mother from prison.

While planning his revenge, billionaire Attikus invests his money in causes and projects that will make the world a better place/balance out the world’s darkness and works with his friends to take down Trogyn—a dangerous crime syndicate with ties all over the world. He’s an unconventional outsider. Art is his escape, which is partly why he invests in Vanessa’s gallery/art ventures.

The Maverick is my first read by Han. It’s an intricate, thrilling, romantic exploration of how love and finding your soulmate can help heal the emotional wounds, pain, and trauma that drive you to seek revenge. Readers who enjoy multilayered, suspenseful, and emotionally intense novels with complex and morally grey characters and surprising twists and turns should enjoy The Maverick. However, it requires patience because Han takes her time developing her story and characters.

Reading The Maverick is like watching a complex, dramatic, romantic suspense, mystery/thriller movie, or TV show. Sweet, steamy, funny, sexy, emotional, and moderately paced, it’s perfect for fans of:

Age-gap
Pretend marriage
Slow-burn romance
Hidden identity
Forced proximity
Morally gray billionaire
Vengeance
Angst and steam
Romantic suspense

3.5 stars

Content warnings: Past bullying, death parents/family, grief/loss, trauma, SA

Thanks to Nadia Han and The Author Agency for the ARC.

[Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! What a wild ride! The Maverick is full of romance, suspense, and twists that kept me turning the pages!

The first pages of the book immediately immerse you in the story. Attikus Mount is a billionaire museum owner who has experienced some traumatic events in his past. He has been consumed with vengeance against the man who destroyed his entire family and threw his world into darkness.

Vanessa Lam is a brilliant artist, and like Attikus, she grew up in a world of traumatic events. She has a secret, and her ex-boyfriend is blackmailing her. She trusted him, and now he can threaten the success that she has worked so hard to achieve.

Attikus owns the building where Vanessa’s new art gallery is located. The attraction between them is evident, but despite everything they have endured, they have managed to maintain a professional relationship. All that changes when Vanessa approaches him with a proposal — a fake marriage. She believes that if her ex thinks she is married to Attikus, he will leave her alone. He agrees. What begins as a business arrangement becomes so much more.

While they are married, the two join forces to solve two mysteries from their past and attempt to bring down a powerful and dangerous crime syndicate. The two also fall deeply in love with one another, bringing light back into each other’s lives.

I loved both Attikus and Vanessa. They were multidimensional characters with great depth. Both of them were so loyal to their families and would do anything to protect them. Additionally, they were remarkably similar to one another. Attikus said it perfectly:

“She and I were similar. We were islands detached from the mainland. There were things we didn’t want others to know. We were close enough to hop back on the mainland when necessary, but we preferred being away to protect ourselves.”
It's always wonderful to see two lost souls find each other. They were perfect for one another. They healed the deep scars each of them had etched into their souls.

While the romance was great, the twists and turns were too. I had no idea what direction the author would take me next. She combined a fake marriage, forced proximity, hidden identity, and suspenseful romance into a brilliant novel!

[Miancka · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A seductive, slow-burn thrill ride packed with secrets, vengeance, and a love story that aches in the best way.

The Maverick is the kind of book that pulls you in slowly, like a fine piece of art—every brushstroke deliberate, every glance layered with meaning. Nadia Han has painted a deeply emotional, suspenseful, and sensual masterpiece featuring a morally gray billionaire who will steal your breath, and a clever, scarred heroine who will steal your heart.

Attikus Mount is intense, calculated, and haunted by a past soaked in betrayal and pain. His quest for vengeance rules everything—until Vanessa Lam storms into his life like chaos wrapped in elegance. Their marriage is supposed to be a cold contract, a transaction… but oh, how quickly that plan unravels.

And watching it unravel? Absolutely delicious. 🖤

This book delivers on everything—
✔️ Age-gap spice
✔️ Hidden identities and secrets waiting to explode
✔️ Forced proximity that turns tense into unbearably intimate
✔️ A slow-burn so emotionally charged it hurts
✔️ And angst? Let’s just say, you'll feel it in your chest.

Vanessa is a standout—an artist with a guarded heart and a will of steel. She’s not some damsel being swept away—she's all color and fire, testing Attikus at every turn. And Attikus… that man simmers. He’s brooding, brilliant, and so controlled—until love threatens to tear down every wall he's built.

The suspense plot adds a gripping, cinematic edge to their romance. Twists, revelations, and emotional punches had me flipping the pages, holding my breath, rooting for them through every beautifully messy moment.

The Maverick isn’t just a love story—it’s a story of redemption, revenge, and finding the courage to let go of the past to embrace something real. This book owns its tropes and turns them into something unforgettable.

If you're into billionaire obsession with soul-deep connection, tangled motives, and edge-of-your-seat suspense… this one needs to be on your TBR. 👏

[Tiffany Do · Rating 5 out of 5]

**ARC Review**

Category Ratings (Out of 5):

Storyline: 5
Characters: 5
Suspense: 5
Action: 5
Romance: 5
Steamy Hot Scenes: GHOST PEPPER SPICY

"Only a man who had touched the darkest of the dark would know how to describe it beautifully."

In this exciting conclusion of the WaterFyre Rising (sadly for me), we have an artist (Vanessa) meet an illustrator (Attikus) who does not follow the rules that society expects to be laid out. The artist also knows a thing or two about not following whatever is expected from them by society.

These two human beings come together in the most unconventional of ways, after having had encounters that have left both of them angry with wants of vengeance.

I truly enjoyed how well Vanessa and Attikus both complemented their relationship. They both met each other's wants and needs and did not allow many outside influences to affect how they truly felt about each other.

I loved how much of a baddie Vanessa was; she dished out what she also took back and set her boundaries with the people around her (including Attikus) which I loved.

Meanwhile, I was pleasantly surprised that Attikus was a softy at heart. I had thought that my favorite guys of the series were Forrest, Royce & Arrow (not in any specific order), but I think Attikus might be joining that list now.

He seemed to realize his feelings about Vanessa early on, and I'm happy he didn't just beat around the bush like some male characters do. He had me swooning so hard at moments and cheesy smiling during the course of my read.

In addition, the climax to this story was wonderful and I was happy with how Nadia Han had written and closed out this chapter to the series, especially towards the end (I won't spoil that here).

Throughout the story, there was enough action and suspense in this story that I finished the book in a few days.

I am truly sad to see the end of the WaterFyre Rising series as they were all special books in their own way, but I am excited to see what's next from Nadia Han.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

The Maverick is the seventh book in the ‘WaterFyre Rising’ series by Nadia Han. It is a contemporary romantic suspense with an arranged/fake marriage element, slow burn, age gap, forced proximity, intrigue, dramatic developments, a morally gray billionaire, vengeance/revenge, suspense, danger, chemistry, sizzle, angst, tension, secrets, emotion, family, friendship, intensity, violence, action, sinister foes, agendas, multilayered storyline, a journey of discovery in more ways than one, finding love unexpectedly, and superb characters.
This is Attikus and Vanessa’s story- who take us along on their angsty journey. Add in some danger, tension, and sizzling chemistry - and things become quite engrossing.
Even though this book could be read as a standalone, as each individual instalment focuses on its own particular ‘couple’, there has been a bit of an overarching storyline that wends its way through the series- building on what has come before, and instalment by instalment, begins to paint a much bigger and more intriguing picture. This book brings everything together, and I loved how we get to ‘catch up’ with and ‘tie up’ all the previous Books MCs stories as well… but I am still not sure if I will ever be ready to say goodbye to this series, as it has been a bit of a wild and exciting ride.
The Series Contains:
-The Mastermind (Book #1) – Remi and Audri’s story
-The Daredevil (Book #2) – Royce and Michelle’s story
-The Innovator (Book #3) – Grayson and Natalie’s story
-The Inquisitor (Book #4) – Forrest and Kiera’s story
-The Strategist (Book #5) – Arrow and Vivian’s story
-The Protégé (Book #6) – Orion and Elena’s story
-The Maverick (Book #7) – Attikus and Vanessa’s story

I am very much looking forward to Ms. Han’s new series, Etched! I can’t wait to see what she has instore for us there.
Until next time… Happy Reading!

Thank you, Nadia Han!

[Beverly Finnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s the beginning of the end. The final book in the WaterFyre Rising Series! I loved this series and I’ll be sad to see it end. I’ll just have to read it again later down the line. The author gives us 1 final book. 1 final coupling. 1 final game level. And 1 final showdown. These books aren’t meant to be standalone novels but to be read in consecutive order. They were all leading up to this. 7 friends creating a game while trying to take down a crime syndicate. Each friend is responsible for a different level. Each friend is responsible for someone they care about. They need to protect their own so they can move forward with the take down.
Nessa is being harassed. Harassed by someone that knows what she did. That she’s responsible for her mother being in prison. That her mother took the fall. Though the form of harassment is coming from her ex-boyfriend, it’s really an order that’s coming from way beyond him. She killed a guy when attacked, who was linked to the syndicate the girl’s men were battling.
Attikus has been trying to find the men who tortured him and killed his family for years. Not realizing that they are connected to the syndicate at first. He found 2 and is struggling to find the other. He wants justice.
When Nessa approaches him about a fake marriage to help with the harassment, he doesn’t hesitate to say yes. Though he makes it sound like money is the reason, he does care for her. He just doesn’t feel she feels tge same way, little does he know.
However throughout the process of getting to know who is harassing her, they find themselves deeper into a web of danger than they expected. Realization that everything is connected to the syndicate they need to keep themselves as well as their friends safe.
Will Nessa and Attikus admit how they feel?
How does the final showdown go down?
Well if you enjoyed these books as much as I did, it’s time to jump into the final ride!

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Featuring an arranged/fake marriage between a wealthy museum owner intent on revenge on the boys who murdered his family and an artist who has more than a few secrets of her own The Maverick brings the Waterfyre Rising series to a close but in ‘six degrees of Kevin Bacon’ type twist Attikus Mount or Vanessa Lam discover that their pasts have intersected and that they may have mutual enemies in common.

I loved the characters of Attikus and Vanessa, as what began as a means to protect her from a blackmailer quickly developed into more…. although Attikus as it turned out was always intent on playing a long game when it came to her, but despite his growing desire and obsession for his ‘Lily Pad’ their romance was more slowburn than anything else. Overall, The Maverick was engaging, exciting, and fast paced with a style of writing that was both addictive and easy to read. The pacing was good and the storylines intriguing with twists and turns galore that had me hooked from start to finish but I couldn’t have even begun to guess how Attikus’ hunt for his remaining attacker would play out and I was totally shocked with the grand denouement of the villain – talk about hiding in plain site. Yes, the storylines may have seemed farfetched at times but that just added to the fun and all the V.A.T.V. team needed were some gadgets a la James Bond, after all the whole idea of a worldwide criminal organisation such as the Trogyn with their hooks in the highest echelons of society did have Bondesque villainish type vibes to it. All that was missing was the white cat! With the multilayered, larger plot which had been arcing across the Waterfyre Rising series arriving at a gripping and satisfying conclusion before rounding things off with a wonderful epilogue that gave glimpses into the futures of all the heroes and heroines, Nadia Han definitely saved the best till last.

[Tara Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Maverick is Book Seven in the WaterFyre Rising series. It is a romantic suspense with elements of billionaire romance, slow-burn love, arranged/fake marriage, revenge, and age-gap relationship, hidden identities, and emotional healing through love. The story centers around Attikus Mount, a museum-owning billionaire, and Vanessa Lam, a talented artist. Attikus is haunted by his family's tragic murder and is obsessively seeking justice. Vanessa has secrets of her own, including an incarcerated mother and a threatening ex-boyfriend. They enter a contract marriage to protect Vanessa and serve their individual agendas. The relationship intensifies unexpectedly into a deep romantic bond, unraveling their painful pasts. Together, Attikus and Vanessa face a dangerous crime syndicate (Trogyn) and must choose between love and revenge.
Attikus starts off consumed by revenge and emotionally closed off but through his contract marriage to Vanessa, he learns vulnerability, trust, and love He faces a pivotal decision: pursue justice or protect the woman who’s become his peace. Vanessa is smart, sharp, snarky and unafraid to challenge Attikus. Her marriage to Attikus starts as purely strategic but finds herself emotionally drawn to him. Their connection is slow-burn and passionate, built on emotional safety and fierce loyalty. Together, Attikus and Vanessa are like two broken puzzle pieces that only make sense when joined. He calls her "Lily Pad"—a nod to her fragile beauty and strength. She’s his muse, and he is her shield. Their love story isn't about grand gestures but about finding peace amid chaos. This book ties together overarching plots from the six previous novels and many characters from earlier installments make appearances. This was a great conclusion to the WaterFyre Rising series.

[Angela Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Attikus Mount has a past like all the others in his group, and he has always been seeking revenge for the murder of his family, but when a charming lady with just as much baggage enters his life, he can’t believe that they are chasing the same revenge.

Vanessa Lam has had her share of disappointments and challenges but none more than her secret which she can’t let loose but someone knows and is harassing her but when she meets Attikus and he proposes (literally) they embark on an adventure of redemption and revenge together to find a end to the past, but what started out as an arrangement is becoming more too both of them.

This is sadly the last book in this series, and it has been a pleasure to read, although if this is your first adventure in this series you may have found some of the back story difficult to follow, I would not recommend reading them out of sequence. This book follows the last friend and the last piece of the game they have been creating, and I am having a hard time letting go.

Attikus always seemed a shut down character in the story, but you get to see his loving and he has a huge heart in the processes, these two characters compliment each other with there determination for revenge and the attraction they finally feel for each other is beautiful to read. As always, the secondary characters add an extra dimension to the story and the twist and turns is brilliant to read and follow.

As always, a great book and I can’t wait to get stuck into the next series this wonderful author will create next.

[Priscilla Herchold · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars rounded up to 4

Now this is an epic finale to a 7 book series, WaterFyre Rising, of interconnected standalones. There's a lot going on here from the relationship between our MCs, Attikus & Vanessa, to the suspense plot line that will have you turning pages late into the night.

Attikus and Vanessa enter into an arranged marriage that is supposed to be hands off but beneficial in other ways to each of them due to their individual pasts. Yeah... because that always turns out well! The chemistry between these two has a burn and is steamy. When they get there, they really get there. 

I really enjoyed how Vanessa's art was woven throughout - talking about creativity and sketching, trying to reignite that spark Attikus. And Attikus seeking his vengeance is a master plan Han writing it so well.

As book no. 7, it can be read alone, however, the characters from the other books do have starring roles here so for maximum enjoyment, it is probably best to read all the books in this series - this is where it was tough for me. At times it felt like I was missing some things because I hadn't read the rest of the books. With time though, I plan to do so.

🔥 Arranged Marriage
🔥 Forced Proximity
🔥 Hidden Identity
🔥 Possessive Billionaire
🔥 On a Vengeance
🔥 Touch Her and Die Vibe
🔥 Morally Gray Alpha
🔥 Angst and Steam
🔥 Lots of Suspense

Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for the gifted copy

[Beejai Bohls · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing way to end the series!! This book is the conclusion to the WaterFyre Rising series and these books are intended to be read in order. I would highly recommend reading them in order because the characters are sprinkled throughout all the books. That said if you accidentally picked this book up to read first, you could follow along. I think you would be missing a huge part of the characters and their dynamic but you could figure it out. You would probably also want to go and read the rest of the books in the series because they are just that good. This book has everything that you would want in a romance story. There is the forbidden romance between gallery space owner and artist. The proposition of having a relationship based on a business agreement. The push and pull between the characters is amazing. This book took twists and turns with the story line that I didn't think would happen. Ok, let's be real, my mind couldn't construe the things that these characters went through and the way the author takes you through story line, is chef's kiss. I couldn't put this book down and read it from cover to cover in a matter of hours. More like a matter of a lot of hours and staying up way past my bedtime to finish it. I am left with a book hangover and wishing to start the series from the beginning for the first time all over again. This will definitely be a re-read series and I can't wait for enough time to pass for me to read it again.

[Roxsanne Lesieur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Attikus Mount is a shrewd businessman, but he is also a victim of circumstance when his entire family was destroyed and he placed himself on a path of vengeance to find justice for them. Vanessa Lam is a young lady with a dark past who just wants to escape with her mum and forget everything that happened, but this isn't something she can do, so she channels her feelings into her art instead.

Vanessa has a gallery opening where she will be displaying and hopefully selling her art to enthusiasts who are both friends and strangers, including her landlord, Attikus who unbeknownst to her already owns one of her pieces, however, an unexpected gift sends her into a spiral and Attikus is hopefully going to help her stop it and maybe even help.

It is the next day when Vanessa comes up with a business plan for Attikus, one which involves an arranged marriage and hopefully one which will only be short term until she can regain some control of her life, but what surprised her most, is when Attikus agrees!

Can these two maintain this professional arrangement while trying to escape from their pasts, all while trying to deny a growing attraction which will only complicate matters? This is a dark romantic suspense where enemies lurk in dark corners and secrets once buried come back to haunt lives, as two people plan to escape with consequences neither wants to admit to either themselves, or the other.

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 7th book in the WaterFyre Rising Series. Even though it is part of a series it can be read as a standalone as each book focuses on a different couple. This is a contemporary suspense romance. It contains a fake marriage, forced proximity, danger, slow burn romance, vengeance/revenge and chemistry that is off the charts.



Attikus Mount is a very successful business man who's driving force is to find the people who destroyed his family. For years that has been his goal and focus and nothing and no one can distract him from that goal. Until Vanessa Lam comes into his life.

Vanessa has issues of her own. Issues from her past that she is still recovering from. Her marriage to Attikus was supposed to be a business deal nothing more and nothing less. But what happens when faking the feelings turns real ?

Both of the main characters have issues they need to resolve and heal from but will their secrets and past stop them from having a future? When Attikus is put in the position of choosing between his need for vengeance and the woman he has started to fall for will his choice destroy them both?

This series has been amazing and I have loved everyone and the journey we have been on with the characters. I do recommend reading them in order as I think once you read one you will definately want the read them all

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took me on an emotional journey. The characters are nuanced, well-developed and absolutely fascinating. Attikus and Vanessa (Nessa) are both scarred and enmeshed in family trauma, and driven to avenge the wrongs done to their loved ones. He has wealth and power behind him, while she is struggling to gain traction in her mission to right a grievous wrong. They also have a love of art in common, but the fake marriage they agreed to is based on her need for protection and his ability to provide it. They have a fiery chemistry between them, but neither was expecting the all consuming need for the other or the intensity and depth of their feelings. Is love enough to see them through when the opportunity for vengeance is at hand?

I love the banter, the snark, and the intensity of Attikus and Vanessa’s connection. Their relationship brings them both a sense of peace, of belonging and being loved. They see the person beneath the public facade they both wear, the sides of themselves few ever see, even the side that carries a burden of pain, guilt and despair. Their love for each other goes a long way to easing those burdens. Their story is a masterful blend of romance, intrigue, danger and suspense that both tantalize and thrill.

This mesmerizing book has my full recommendation.

[Kasey · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars

This is my first book by this author. I was excited to read this book because the plot sounded interesting and I loved that it was a forced proximity/arranged marriage/hidden identity story with a suspenseful twist. The story started off really good and kept me entertained but by the 70% mark it got really long and boring that I had to put it down. It took me almost 3 more tries to get back in the story. By that point the story was dragging and I just wanted it to end. Plus , although it is a standalone, I think I lacked the knowledge of the other books which hindered my reading. There was just too many characters and too many plot points to keep track of, and because it was so much each plot point wrapped up too easily. I wish some side plots were removed and it should have just mainly focused on the main characters out for revenge. Everything also just felt too surface level and I would have liked to dive further into the FMC background a little more and less about the MMC getting revenge. Everything revolved around him, even the FMC suspense storyline, so it felt like the author just connected every storyline even if it didn’t make sense. Overall, I kind of wish the story ended at 70% and was wrapped up earlier.

[Jaimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Attikus is on a mission to catch anyone responsible with his life blowing up in a fight as a child. He will stop at nothing to make them pay. But in walks a mystery artist Nessa. With her life flipped upside down she will stop at nothing to get her mother out of jail for a murder she didn't commit! Even fake marry someone who she thinks will stop her ex. Can she do this? Can she convince this billionaire to help her with this crazy scheme? No love, just contract. After a set times just walk away? But when their pasts collide can either of them get past it? This series was SO SO SO SO SO (so x how ever many times it will take you to get it NOW) good!!! I honestly can't wait to look up and read more from this author. I have read a few but not all by far. If you love a good millionaire romance this is that plus more! There are mysteries and secrets. Hidden identities. and so much natural chemistry with the characters that it keeps you wanting more. And the ending! Chefs kiss! You can read this alone, but you will see that things (people, clubs, companies, couples stories, etc.) are mentioned and you won't know that they are. They are explained, but please just read them all. You will kick yourself if you don't and you WILL want more!

[Hali Hegeman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I need everyone to go read this book and follow @authornadiahan because this was fantastic!

The Maverick is an arranged marriage, forced proximity, hidden identity romantic suspense following Vanessa and Attikus.

Vanessa is the kind of FMC you wanna be besties with. She has such a kind soul, she truly loves and cares for her loved ones and would do anything to ease their pain, even if it puts her safety at risk. Even when she’s seen so much darkness in the world, she also never forgets to embrace the light when it shines through. Readers will love her and root for her the whole book, I guarantee it.

Get ready to fall head over heels for Attikus just as Vanessa does. This man would do literally anything to keep her safe and happy, when he realizes that something is bothering her, he immediately jumps into action and finds something to bring her comfort, joy, love, etc. He has such a big heart just like Vanessa, and everyone will love and adore them as they fall for each other.

Thank you so much to @authornadiahan and @theauthor.agency for my arc, I absolutely loved this book and will be adding many more of Nadia’s books to my TBRs from here on out!

The Maverick is now available in KU💗

[Yugie Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'd followed this series with a fierce passion ever since I stumbled upon the first book, and I've been addicted ever since. There's a strong bittersweet feeling I'm harboring now that the series has come to an end. I'm glad that the whole series' overarching plot has played out to a highly satisfying conclusion, but I'm feeling sad at the same time that I'll be reading about all the characters for a final time.

I enjoyed this book tremendously for what I consider an ideal balance of romance and suspense. The slow-burn romance between the main characters was engaging to witness as it evolved from one of wariness and uncertainty to a full-blown touch-her/him-and die vibe. The suspense was light, putting you on edge as the story unraveled but just enough to not be so stressful. So the overall experience I had while reading this book was one of anticipation and full reading pleasure.

Now that the series has ended, I look forward to what Nadia has planned next. I fondly look forward to her next book series!

I am thankful to the author for granting me a free review copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily.

[Lila Danisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow... what a mind-blowing story!
Fast-paced, full of twists, yet still full sugary sweet from the hero and heroine. I loved it so much.
This book is the seventh and the last book from WaterFyre Rising series. I have not read any of the previous 6 books, but I still understand the story, and for me, it could absolutely read as standalone. The first thing that came up in my mind after finishing this book was how I wish I've read the other previous books because this book was so excitingly gripping my attention. I could imagine myself hype up the happily ever after for each and every character in this series. I would definitely read the previous books even though I already knew their HEAs.
Vanessa/Nessa and Attikus were so sweet with each other. Attikus was perfect as a hero. I lost count of how many times I giggled like teenagers because of these two. They were perfect. I loved them so much.
The plots were so good and so twisted. My mind was blowing all over the place because of how the story ended up the way it was. This was my first book of Nadia Han, but I am genuinely impressed and can't wait to read her other books.

Thank you to Nadia Han and The Author Agency for the ARC.

[Haley R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read/introduction to this series, and I was hooked from the start!

A tantalizing, gradually unfolding journey full of hidden truths, retribution, and a heartbreakingly beautiful romance. This story, spun a heartfelt, tension-filled story with a sexy edge—starring a flawed billionaire who’ll leave you reeling and a sharp, resilient heroine who’ll take you by surprise.

The FMC, Vanessa is a force to be reconned with. She possesses raw talent and has walls built so high and a spine of steel! She doesn't need to be saved because she'd wild, sharp and keeps our MM on edge ever dang second! And Attikus, our MMC, is a storm barely contained who is dark, calculating, and always one step ahead. That is until Vanessa starts ripping through his fortresses he's spent a lifetime guarding.

The Maverick had me on the edge of my seat, my emotions so uncontrolled as this story unfolds and is about revenge, love, redemption and challenging what finally feels right. I can't wait to back track and consume the other books in this series after this. Exceptional writing, connections, and suspense!

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. I enjoyed this author’s ability to pull me into the character’s world and keep me engaged to the end. I also enjoyed this author’s creative characters that are full of heart and soul. I found this book to be well written and hard to put down. A story that is engaging and had me turning pages fast to the end. This is Vanessa and Attikus’s story. They both have a past and they just happened to be married to each other. This was supposed to be a simple arrangement until hearts get involved and make choices that were not expected. How will their story end? Fate has a way of doing unexpected things that change everything. I enjoyed both of these characters and what they added to the story. They have great chemistry and attraction throughout which made the story easy to read. I enjoyed the growth of this story which made it entertaining to read. This is book 7 in this series but can be read as a standalone. I highly suggest reading the previous books in this series to help with your enjoyment of this author. I look forward to seeing what is next for this author. I highly recommend this story.

[Desiree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vanessa Lam has made a name for herself in the art world and has almost gotten everything she is working towards. However, out of the blue an ex-boyfriend begins blackmailing her about her past, she has no one to turn to except Attiikus Mount, her gallery's landlord. Attikus is man living for revenge. His life was destroyed when he was in high school and he has sworn to find everyone responsible and make them pay. When Vanessa approaches Attikus with a proposal, he jumps at the chance to help her. Can they stick to the parameters, or will their hearts take them on a different course?

This was an exciting end to the series. I didn't read every book in the series, but it didn't matter. This story was easy to read and understand who everyone was. At one point, I thought that I knew what was happening and how it all intertwined, however, there were still surprises to me. I did NOT see that kind of ending for the bad guy(s), but it kept me intrigued. At the end of the book, it wrapped up everyone's story from the series with an epilogue for each couple. It was very sweet of the author to include.

[Ayla Phipps · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tasty, tasty. This was a delicious end to Nadia Han’s WaterFyre Rising series. I love a good series, but a good series made of standalones. *Chefs kiss* Each entry in this enthralling series pulls you in. The MMCs differ in all the ways that make them unique, and the FMCs are their perfect match, even if they struggle to accept it at first.
Attikus has been consumed with finding those responsible for destroying his family. Vanessa is an artist with scars far deeper than anyone expects. A contractual marriage for convenience brings them together but when things become more both sides are forced to reevaluate what matters most. Attikus finally has the chance to get the man he’s been searching for but to go after him he would have to leave behind the person he loves.
Will Attikus get his revenge or protect the woman he never meant to fall for? Can Vanessa’s scars be healed by the man that was just supposed to be convenient? Everything about this series is meant to pull you in but now that its ended…. now what. Lol. I cannot wait to see what Nadia Han will write next because it’s guaranteed to be epic.

[Jenique'S Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Maverick is a breathtaking finale to the WaterFyre Rising series that delivers passion, intrigue, and emotional depth in equal measure. Nadia Han masterfully weaves together the slow burn of an arranged marriage with the tension of hidden identities and the danger of long-held secrets. Attikus Mount, the morally gray billionaire hero, and Vanessa Lam, the fierce and vulnerable artist, ignite the pages with their chemistry as they navigate a relationship built on a contract—but destined for so much more.

Han’s writing shines with heart-pounding suspense and poignant moments, as Attikus is torn between his thirst for revenge and his need to protect the woman who unexpectedly becomes his everything. The twists kept me hooked, and the rich layers of both characters made this story unforgettable.

What made this book truly special was the final chapter’s “where are they now” glimpse at the beloved characters from earlier in the series. It was the perfect, emotional farewell that fans will cherish—a beautiful bow tying together the WaterFyre Rising world. An absolute must-read for romantic suspense lovers!

[Rhonda Pulk · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Maverick (Waterfyre Rising 7) by Nadia Han
5 Star Review
This book was a little slow for me getting into it but then I couldn’t put it down. The connection between Nessa and Attikus is complicated to say the least. I mean having any kind of relationship with the owner of the space that holds your art gallery is a risky move. But the proposition that Nessa approaches him with is borderline on crazy. So many things could go wrong. She could lose her gallery, she could lose him, she could even lose her life. Attikus is no saint and when you add the lovely Vanessa into the mix, all bets are off. What starts off as an innocent and unique contract, soon turns into a roller coaster of events that neither of them expected.
This book is full of plot twists and connections between the characters that I didn’t see coming. Nadia Han is a natural storyteller and has an amazing imagination. There are aspects of her book that lead to you really feeling for the characters that she has created. I will definitely be looking for other books in this series and from this author. Happy reading!

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Maverick: An Arranged Marriage Romance (WaterFyre Rising) by Nadia Han. This is the 7th and final book in the Waterfyre Rising and what a great series its been. I do recommend reading them in order to get a better understanding of the story line and characters. This is the story of Attikus who is a billionaire and Vanessa who is a artist that is vulnerable to all the outside noise because she has a very important secret that can not get out. She has had a lifetime of disappointments and losses so she is ready for the tide to turn her way. When she and Attikus meet they both know there is something between them but neither one can afford a relationship right now so they both ignore it. When they agree to a fake marriage to help each other out they think its nothing more than that. Attikus is set on revenge and he also has a secret he doesn't want anyone to find out about. Will they continue their fake marriage or will real feelings get in the way. Such a fast paced great ending to a wonderful series.

[Pat Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

😍😍ARC REVIEW😍😍

The Maverick is the final book of the WaterFyre Rising Series by Nadia Han. This is the story of Vanessa (MFC) and Attikus (MMC). This is the first book that I have read of the series. I would suggest reading the books earlier in the series to get a better understanding of the series.

Both main characters have secrets that are related to the syndicate, and they come to need each other to survive. They know that they are in danger. Attikus has feelings for Vanessa and feels compelled to help her. This is a slow burn romance and a complex web of secrets that need to be solved.

The chemistry between Vanessa and Attikus is strong 🔥🔥 🔥and falls into their fake marriage really easy. Neither one of them realizes that they care for one another. The unraveling of secrets along with the twists and turns moves this book along.

🌸 Fake relationship
🌸 Morally gray billionaire
🌸 Touch her and die vibes
🌸 Angst and steam
🌸 Vengeance Driven
🌸 Found family

Story - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steam/Spice - 🌶🌶🌶🌶

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nadia Han strikes again with a sizzling blend of arranged marriage, revenge, and emotional redemption. In The Maverick, the seventh standalone in the WaterFyre Rising series, you dive into a dangerously seductive slow unraveling of two broken people forced into something that looks like duty—but feels like fate. Their arranged marriage isn’t supposed to mean anything—but that’s exactly what makes it explosive. Their chemistry? Off the charts. The power dynamics? Twisted and addictive. The emotional payoff? Satisfying in the best kind of ache. What I loved most was how vulnerability becomes the true battleground. Beneath the snark and tension are two people scarred by their pasts, daring to hope for more even when secrets and trauma threaten everything. I devoured this one. It stands well on its own, but if you're into powerful, protective heroes and heroines who won’t back down, you might just want to binge the whole WaterFyre Rising series. Nadia Han writes with heat, heart, and just the right amount of danger.