Prescott Lane is the USA TODAY bestselling author of ALL MY LIFE.. She is originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, and graduated from Centenary College with a degree in sociology. She went on to receive her MSW from Tulane University, after which she worked with developmentally delayed and disabled children. She married her college sweetheart, and they currently live in New Orleans with their two children and two crazy dogs. Prescott started writing at the age of five, and sold her first story about a talking turtle to her father for a quarter. She later turned to writing romance novels because there aren't enough happily ever afters in real life. Connect with Prescott Lane on facebook.com/PrescottLane1 and www.twitter.com/prescottlane1.
“Music has a way of touching a place in the soul that words can’t reach.”
Ryder is the second book in the Merrick Brothers series by Prescott Lane. This is my very first book by Prescott and can be read as a complete stand alone. The characters from the first book, Knox, do appear in this book. This is an unexpected pregnancy romance and I am completely blown away! I could NOT put it down and am so in love with the characters.
“Music is the place I find some peace.”
Ryder Merrick is almost thirty years old and is a world famous country music star. He can play nearly any instrument but guitar is his favorite. Ryder’s lyrics are well known everywhere. But there is one word you will never find in his songs, love. It’s a word you will never hear from his lips. Because even though Ryder knows love exists, it doesn’t for him.
“From the first moment I saw her, there was something that drew me in. She’s light, happy, a complete contrast to me.”
“That’s my worst feat, that I’ll hurt her, that my darkness will touch her light.”
Kailey Walker is twenty four years old and just finished her master’s degree in communication disorders. Now all she needs is a job. A couple of months ago, Kailey met the cutest man at a festival. She didn’t know he was someone famous. All she knew is that they shared a special connection. She was not a one night stand kind of girl. But what she was feeling for this man she wanted to explore. He promised her that he would still be there in the morning. But, when she woke up, he was gone. Two months later, she realized she was pregnant. She could have just moved on. But she couldn’t live with herself if she didn’t even tell him he was going to be a father.
“It was like she was seeing me, really seeing me, not the musician, not the fame, not the singer, just the man.”
When Kailey comes back into Ryder’s life, he’s not going to let her go this time. He needs her. And he wants to be a father to their baby. Now he just needs to convince Kailey to give him another chance, to forgive him for walking away before.
“Music has a way of touching a place in the soul that words can’t reach.”
This was such a wonderful book. Ryder was everything I love to read about in the heroes in my books. He was possessive and protective. He felt so much, even though he couldn’t voice it, couldn’t recognize it really. And Kailey was strong too, strong enough to put up with Ryder. I loved watching them find that connection they originally had and exploring it. This book is so beautifully written and I most definitely will be reading more from this author in the future.
This book definitely wasn't what I was expecting and unfortunately, not in a good way.
I liked the first book in the Merrick Bothers Duet, it was a cliche second chance romance, but I really enjoyed the plot, and after Ryder's blurb, I was really excited about his secrets and how Kailey could make him love.
Kailey and Ryder had an instant connection. They met at a New Orleans festival, and after an one hot night together, Ryder leaves her alone in his hotel room. 2 months later, he sees her at the front row of his concert and can't believe that she's not only there, BUT he can clearly see her baby bump (yep... Her 2 months baby BUMP).
I'll left behind all the impossible or unrealistic things off the story, and will focused on what I liked and disliked.
Well... This book is just a really sad mess! Kailey spend so much time hating Ryder, and suddenly, when she's not hating him anymore, she just wants him to say that he loves her. I couldn't understand her insecurities and her needs of constant attention. The men was doing everything for her and their baby. But she needed more.
I wanted to DNF it so many times, but I continued and things just got worst.
If you're intend to read this book without spoilers, I recommend that you stop reading my review here.
Until 86% of the book the story goes around Kailey's pregnancy and her eternal bed rest. Yes... She spent weeks going into every single one of Ryder's concerts, but soon after he puts her under his protection, they discover that she has a placenta previa, then she can't do absolutely nothing but lie down.
He cancel his entire life for the next year to be by her side and take care of her and their baby. But apparently, if he can't say I LOVE YOU to her, nothing that he did mattered.
The men had issues. But not commitment issues. He just had a lot of death surrounding him, and was hunted by his ghosts (not really, just in his mind).
I really couldn't handle how the author choose to plot twist their story. The only thing happening in the book until 86%, is him trying to keep her of her feet, and locked in home to avoid paparazzi.
Then after a couple of happy weeks, she says that she love him, and when he didn't say it back, she freaks out and run away from the house and into a really poor Lady Di situation.
I'll not spoil the story anymore... Unfortunately this book wasn't for me. The two stars is for their happily ever after in the epilogue. But it was bittersweet. I'll probably still read this author in the future, since I did liked Knox.
A shotgun romance book! There i said it. A story where things happen backwards, first comes the sex, then the baby and lastly love and trust. And if the story is filled with oh-so-sweet moments of tender loving care, the reader heart goes pitter-patter. It's a feel good love story of second chances and a wollop on the head the third time to bring the hero to his senses. Ryder Merrick is the brooding country singer, brother of Hollywood superstar Knox Merrick we met in Knox. This book explains the reason for his introspective, socially distanced personality. "The simple truth is that I left home and never went back. That’s all that really matters. But I’ve been searching for that feeling of home ever since. I’ve searched the bottom of whiskey bottles, countless women, but always come up empty."
He only comes alive when his fingers are strumming the guitar or when a girl comes knocking on his heart on a rainy day in New Orleans. A hot passionate night is enough to reset the tectonic plates of his lonely heart and even though he walks out the next morning, the night stays with him as a fond vision of a could-be future, it's memory keeps alive in the empty chair in the front row at his concerts. Kaley occupies it one day and she's not alone!!
Their sweet, sad romance is a non starter, but Ryder is nothing if not persistent. It takes a hiccuping start and ambles along on a bumpy road to faux togetherness. Past hurts and scabs barely cover their disappointments but the relationship is starting to show a promise. Kaley is the compassionate, warm hearted, real good human who's been disappointed and it shatters her confidence for a bit "when you fall, your vision blurs, and it’s harder to see the world around you. Waking up alone was like faceplanting in concrete."
At this point Prescott rips the band-aid off and I yelped! There's good news and there's bad news. Both are equally life altering and I was stunned at this twist. Trust Prescott to turn our reader lives upside down!! Thsi book will make you laugh, make you cry, make you worry, make you go all sentimental and emotional. But these brothers sure know how to love and be loyal 4 stars for shine and shit Follow me on: Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
This is the second story in the Merrick Brothers series and I haven’t yet read the first one. The couple from the first book do feature in this so it may pay to read that first but it doesn’t detract from the story in this one.
Kailey meets Ryder at a music festival one summer. She has no idea who he is when she seeks shelter from the rain in a crowded tent. They end up talking for hours, both of them feeling a strong connection that continues into the night and ends in his bed. One incredible night that Kailey wakes up from alone - the only bad part of the last 24 hours, no note or way of contacting the man that rocked her world.
‘She smiled, revealing two huge dimples. She was a country song if I’ve ever seen one - those cutoff shorts, tight little body, and that sweet smile. That smile - that was all it took to reel me in. Funny thing is, I don’t think she had a clue what she was doing to me.’
Ryder Merrick is a well known country music star so getting in touch with him after that amazing night proves impossible but a positive result on a pregnancy test has Kailey going to as many concerts as she can to try and get his attention. At his last concert of his tour she finally makes eye contact with him and the recognition is instant.
Ryder cannot believe that Kailey is in front of him again, he was so annoyed with himself for not getting her phone number and regrets leaving her alone that morning. He thought he was doing the right thing cutting ties but he hasn’t wanted to be with anyone else ever since. The news of her pregnancy is surprising but he quickly moves into expectant father mode.Kailey only told him about the baby because he had a right to know, she did not expect him to step up the way he now is.
Things are moving so fast that she barely has time to take it all in. Ryder has made it clear that he wants this baby and a life with her but are they moving too fast? Ryder knows what he wants and now that he has Kailey in his life he plans to keep her. I guess you could classify this as a bit of an insta love story but it is a very emotional and bumpy journey.
Ryder is the second book in the Merrick Brothers series. I was interested in his story since the first book where he was introduced and it did not disappoint. I knew that his story was going to be more emotional. These are standalones, but Knox, his brother, and his love interest are in this story, so if not knowing how they got together bothers you, I would read his book first. If not, then this story definitely stands on its own. ( I have read and enjoyed book one, Knox.)
Ryder is a moody, quiet loner who is also a big-time country music star. He met Kailey one day at a music festival that was cancelled. He feels instantly connected to her and they end up spending the night together.
Fast forward to a few months later and Ryder spots her in the front row of his concert and she has a baby bump. All Kailey wanted to do was to tell Ryder that she was pregnant. She wasn't expecting anything from him, but Ryder tries to do right by her and the baby.
It was interesting to learn of Ryder's backstory and what made him the way he is and why he doesn't say the word "love" and none of his songs have the word in them. He was possessive and protective of Kailey and the baby, but didn't know how to speak his feelings. He showed them while she needed the words, too. Kailey was upset with Ryder for leaving her before she woke up from their night together. She needed to learn to trust him to not walk away again.
This was an emotional surprise pregnancy romance that I really enjoyed. The side character of Addison, Kailey's sister, was a fun bonus. The two sisters conversations were funny. Overall, an enjoyable read!
Thank you to Grey's Promotion and the author for my digital advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
Wow. Just finished and I am really speechless. I knew Ryder would have a broken past but I was not expecting that.
This book is pretty emotional (send message for trigger warnings) and wow. Wooooooowwww. I will say that on the norm, I don’t read a lot of accidentally pregnancies. I wanted to read this story because I love the writers storytelling and I needed to know more after meeting Ryder in book 1. Ryder captivated me and broke me. I cried some ugly ugly tears. This is not a light hearted story, it packs a serious punch. Definitely had me crying for so many reasons.
I was intrigued by Ryder when we met him in Knox's book. So even though I generally try to avoid suprise baby I wanted to see where this would go. I definitely appreciated that this was more of a realistic view of a country rock star and a baby. The fame and all that stuff it changes. Plus it wasn't one easy swoop everything was all rainbows when it's found out.
Kailey fought for herself though she fell for Ryder she didn't forget broken promises. Though you can say she shouldn't have our weight on it knowing he was a celebrity, it was still a crap move. Now at leqst she wasn't swayed easy with all the trappings of celebrity. I felt that she had a spark something with Ryder when they first met, even if was insta there it seemed hopeful. She was naive at first in her wishful thinking it was simple but backfired, at least she did make it easy. I like her independent way and that she calls Ryder out on his nonsense.
Ryder was not perfect, he didn't commit much typical country star. But there was something about Kailey that stuck for him. Though it was a one night stand. I understand he felt responsible yet it was more of protecting Kailey and the baby. Also he got his second chance. He's been searching for home abd has had walls up for a long time. He had a broken past and ghosts, emotionally unavailable to a point. He expresses things it through his music. He has to work on stuff believing he deserves to be happy and accept his past to move forward.
They have a lot of hurt to get past and mending to do before anything. Ryder is trying and putting in an effort he gets plus points for that. I wasn't expecting that reveal on what really happened on their one night stand but makes it more appealing. I'm glad there was honesty in that going forward. It's part of the reason things spiraled with the media clamoring. While this all seems fast at least it didn't drag out. We got glimpses of their night together for those interested in the heat factor.
The thing that stopped me from giving this a higher rating, well I just really dislike last minute conflicts or resolutions like in the last 15%. Something happens to Kailey and the baby. Ryder's past finally fully addressed, boy that was a doozy. It felt like a rushed resolution, could have touched more on some stuff. There's a epilogue but I felt abrupt with the drama before and things were ok so fast. The hea is there. Otherwise I felt this was well done, sweet, sexy, heartfelt and emotional good and enjoyed it.
Okay. My review is going to be a bit of a mixed bag, and I hate that. I hate that for readers, and I hate that for the author. Ryder by Prescott Lane, for me, is a second-half book. That’s important to note because I think some readers might quit reading it if they don’t know that the strength of the book lies in his second half. Here’s the thing. I really liked Knox, the first Merrick Brothers’ book. It excited me that I had found a new author to read, so I was really looking forward to reading Ryder, especially after the blurb. I am a nut for secret baby stories. The revelation of a child to a person who is seemingly not suited to a child makes for a great story. And that’s here in Ryder. Even more, Ryder’s response to it is EVERYTHING in this book. In fact, Ryder, for me, is the best part of this book. Even when he makes choices that are problematic. Even when he fails to acknowledge feelings. Even when he’s being too worried, too possessive, too much. You cannot help but love Ryder. In fact, one of the main reasons that the second half of this book is the best part of it is Ryder. He’s a man with secrets, and Prescott Lane waits for much of the book to reveal them. In fact, I believe she waits too long. That being said, she brings about a lovely happy ending, so all is forgiven for making the reader wait. But it also slows the narrative down...A LOT.
I always give some love to the heroine, and Kailey’s characterization has strengths. She’s the first one to decide that Ryder is more than his music. She is resilient in her unplanned pregnancy and reaching out to Ryder. However, in Kailey’s evolution, there is quite a bit of inconsistency, and it sometimes makes the story feel repetitive and uneven. We could decide that its the effects of being pregnancy (you know, hormones), but I’m not sure. And it makes the first half of the book slow. As the story reaches its climax, then it takes off. You won’t be able to put it down, and the ending will make you feel as though your time, in the beginning, was worth it. Kailey’s strength finds purchase in the story eventually, and she is the perfect match for Ryder.
In the end, I liked Ryder, but I do think Knox is the stronger of the two books. As a character, Ryder pulled at my heartstrings, and he is my favorite type of hero, the broken kind. If you love that kind of hero, then you will like Ryder too, and I encourage you to grab this one along with its predecessor, Knox. You don’t want to miss out on both of Prescott Lane’s Merrick Brothers.
A few months after their one night together, Kailey shows up at country star, Ryder Merrick’s concert with a little baby bump.
“Walker,” Kailey says, starting to walk away. “That’s my last name. Figured you should know.” I shrug and call out to her, “Your last name will be Merrick soon enough.”
He knows he wants Kailey and their child, but the ghost of his past have such a hold on him that he is unable to move beyond it.
“It’s an unfortunate eventuality of being in a relationship with someone. You’re liable to hurt them from time to time. All we can really do is our best, and hope the other person will forgive us.”
This story has plenty of push and pull, back and fourth, but never falls into predictable. Ryder’s was so emotional, at times even heartbreaking. I may have become frustrated with both Kailey and Ryder at times, but by the time all the pieces fell into place I just wanted to hug them. -4.5 Stars!-
A sweet girl, a passionate night, one Ryder cannot get out of his mind even after he walked out on Kailey without leaving a way to contact him. Thank God he's a famous country star, so she's able to finally catch his eye during one of his concerts. Except...she's not the same as she was during their night. Nope, there's bump that wasn't there before. Will this damaged man step up and be a father, or will he leave Kailey without a word again?
Rockstar (or country in this case) romances are one of my favorite tropes, and I feel as if Prescott did right by it here. Ryder is so damaged, such the broody archetype of the tortured musician, and it was a bit painful to read as his relationship with Kailey suffered for it. I can't believe how many chances she gave him, far more than I would have in her place, but she had such a big heart and wanted the father of her baby in their lives, so I can understand why she kept forgiving him his relationship blunders. And then when his complete backstory was revealed...ouch! Despite it being painful, though, I really enjoyed reading as Kailey and Ryder finally fell in love. I liked them so much together that I definitely plan on going back and reading the first story, and will be reading any upcoming ones too.
5 star review Ryder (Merrick Brothers #2) by Prescott Lane
Prescott Lane is a relatively new author to me and I have no idea why that is. From the first to the last chapter I was fully invested in the story that she wove. Ryder ticked all the boxes for me and I fell for him, hook, line and sinker.
What an emotional roller coast of a read this book was. There were times I laughed, times I cried and times I wanted to yell, such was the level of angst in this book but throughout this book is a story of love. I was intrigued by Ryder when I first met him in Knox and this book only cemented my fascination for him. Although it can be read as a stand alone I think you would get more enjoyment if you were to read Knox first, not totally necessary but just my opinion. A one night stand leads to a life changing event for country music star Ryder and Kailey. The chemistry between them is scorching and intense. Choosing to contact Ryder and let him know what is happening, Kailey is shocked by his reaction, never expecting that he would be prepared to step us. Both Ryder and Kailey have baggage and as they come to turns with what fate has put in their path, the angst will be high. I could easily relate to these characters, they were easy to like. The big questions is will Ryder and Kailey take a chance and in doing so find happiness ? I enjoy Prescott Lane’s writing style with strong character driven stories that will draw you in from the first to the last chapter.
I've been waiting on this book since I finished Knox. Throughout that book you got glimpses of Ryder, what an intriguing character that man appeared. My god did he live up to being dark, closed off and intriguing in his own book. This book is a second shot at romance for this pair after one night together.
Bring on the surprise pregnancy and you have one of my favourite troupes as well as a rockstar romance, well country star, but let's not be picky now. Ryder and Kailee are a beautiful couple and their romance is beautiful to read. However you get the feeling that all wouldn't be well throughout this story. Most of the way through, you could just feel the sadness and tension running throughout it.
I won't go into anymore detail of this story, just know that Kailee makes Ryder a better person. And the love that he shows them both is so so beautiful. Even though he, doesn't believe in it. This book is total and utter recommend from me. I loved every word. Although I think that of Knox and all of Prescott Lanes other books.
I totally enjoyed this story. I love a good meet cute, CHECK. Love a broken musician, who doesn't believe in love, CHECK. And I adore a WTF I am pregnant (lived it 4X lol) moment, CHECK. Kailey and Ryder were IT from the first food truck they ventured to and found a way back to each other. Kailey was great for me until one little part, she frustrated me a little beyond my reader frustration meter usually goes, but she redeems herself so all was good. I am always rooting for the broken bad boy that has a past that has defined him. The kind that can be shown the way with the love and adoration of "the one" and Ryder was amazing in this role. I found his broodiness rather hot actually. And Kailey's love for him was the connection that I needed to find my way quickly through this story. I totally enjoyed the journey. And can't wait to read more from this author. My second book of hers and they both spoke to me...win win. xo
Ryder is book 2 in the Merrick Brothers series by Prescott Lane. This is Ryder and Kailey's story. When Ryder made his brief appearance in book 1, I definitely couldn't wait to find out more about Ryder and wow! His book delivers! Full of angst, tears, heartbreak, drama, passion, emotional rollercoaster ride of emotions, feels, secrets, lies, twists, huge amount of chemistry.... surprise pregnancy. There's this delicate amount of sweet yet rawness at the same time when it comes to both main characters. Ryder is this 30 yr old red-hot country music singer while Kailey's 24 yrs old and just graduated college and about to go into her chosen field when life changed for them both. This story shows how they met, got back in touch and the intensity of everything while they deal with feelings, emotions and feels. Kailey is in love with Ryder but does he feel the same? Oh yes, get the tissues ready!!
This is the first of Prescott Lane's books that I have read and it will not be the last it was such a beautiful love story between Ryder and Kailey. I did not read Knox the first book in the series but Ryder is ok to be read as a stand alone, though I will be going back to read Knox at some point.
Though I am not usually a fan of surprise baby romances I loved this one as the characters and storyline were so realistic. Have to say that I was totally taken aback by Ryder's response when he found out that Kailey was pregnant, I thought that rockstars ran for the hills, got DNA tests and got their "people" to dole out huge amounts of money to the mother to keep things quiet. Not so in this case. Kailey just wanted Ryder to know she was pregnant and was asking for nothing from him and wanted things to stay out of the limelight. But that was not to be once the paparazzi got wind of the situation and Ryder whisked her away to stay with him in his compound.
From the start the story is a battle of wills as Ryder tries to protect Kailey for what we learn later are his own dark reasons. Kailey is unable to trust him due to what happened after their amazing one night stand and she is not about to be controlled and walked over by him just because he has all the money in the world. The emotions run high in this story and can make you want to laugh, cry and throw things, but once Ryder's past is revealed everything about him falls into place and your heart will be broken.
This is a very enjoyable well written story with great characters and story development and a definite must read if you love rocker romances.
again, weird feeling about it - cliche male character with instant happening and then we are pushed to believe that they all of a sudden grew conscience and loving feelings...*roll eyes*
WOW!!! Talk about making a couple work for their HEA!!!
Prescott Lane did not make it easy for Ryder and Kailey in this story. This is truly a rollercoaster of emotions. The angst level is high in this story.
I can honestly say that Prescott brought out ALL of my emotions while I was reading. I was laughing, crying, yelling and tempted to throw my iPad across the room. But in the end she also brought out all of the love!!! I ended this story with a huge smile on my face because after everything these two went through it truly made the ending that much sweeter.
Ryder is the second book in the Merrick Brothers series by Prescott Lane. It can be read as a standalone novel, but there is crossover with the characters in the 2 books. Plus you meet Ryder in Knox (book 1) so reading these books in order might make the reading experience better. You'll get the true feeling of who Ryder is by reading these books in order. This story is told in Dual POV and I thought the flow and pace of the story worked well. I will say that if you have read Knox already, Ryder's story is much more emotional. This one will really pull at your heart strings. I would even go to say this book is a heavier read compared to Knox. But that doesn't make this any less enjoyable.
I know I have said this before in my past reviews for this author, but it still stands true…. Ms. Lane has done it again, she has created a story that I was completely invested in. This story sucked me in and took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride. I don’t think I have found a book by Prescott that I haven’t been totally invested in. She is an amazing story teller.
In this book we follow Ryder and Kailey's story. Ryder is a famous country music star and Kailey has just graduated from college and ready to start her life. Only one thing changes that and it was after a one night stand with Ryder. Kailey has found herself pregnant. Determined to do the right thing, she seeks Ryder out to tell him, knowing he is a commitment phobe and will want nothing to do with her and the baby. Boy was she WRONG!!!! Can Ryder open his heart to Kailey?? Will Kailey find her HEA with Ryder?? Read this angst filled story to find out.
If you are a fan of the Rock Star romance with a surprise baby thrown into the mix, then this is the book to read. If you love a story with not a lot of drama but a high level of angst, then this is a book for you. If you haven't read a book by Prescott Lane, then I would recommend starting with the Merrick Brothers.....they are amazing!!!
I loved this one so much! If you read Knox, you will have met his brother Ryder. From the moment Prescott Lane announced Ryder’s book I couldn’t wait to get my hands on his story and again I am blown away with this author’s phenomenal writing. These characters captured my heart from beginning to end. I couldn’t get enough of their story. This is a truly epic love. It is raw, emotional and beautiful.
Ryder is 30 years old and is a famous Country Rockstar. He has so much passion for music and he comes alive the minute he gets behind his guitar. He is an incredible song writer and is well known for his lyrics. What you will not find in his lyrics is the word love. He doesn’t believe in it. That is until Kailey. A girl he met in New Orleans 3 months earlier. The moment they meet he connects with her in a way he has never felt but it scares him so much that he ends up leaving her alone the next morning anyway.
Kailey is 24 years old and has just finished her degree. She is focused and driven on obtaining a job in her field. That plan goes sideways the moment she discovers she pregnant with Ryder’s baby! The moment Kailey steps back into Ryder’s path he is determined not to let her go this time but she is hurt by the fact he up and left her after they got together the first time and she is really going to make him work for it! I loved this about Kailey. She is strong and knows her worth. She knows what she deserves and if Ryder is it in for the long haul he will do whatever it takes in her mind.
Ryder was such a mystery to me in Knox. I am SO glad that Prescott Lane gave us Ryder’s story. We get to learn exactly why he is so socially distant from his fans, band members and family. My heart broke. I had tears of joy, love and heartbreak and then my heart soared in the end when it all comes together. This book and these characters will stick with me for a long time to come.
If you love the Rockstar/Surprise Baby tropes with all the feels this book is for you! Ryder can be read as standalone but if you can read Knox first I highly recommend it.
*Advanced reader copy provided by Grey’s Promotions in exchange of an honest review.
First of all, bring tissues... lots of tissues. It would be easy to just say that Ryder is broken. But there are many layers that the readers don’t know until until almost the very end of the book. There’s a lot of misdirects. You learn that he feels guilty and he never talks about love. His parents are both deceased. There is a manager who was his high school teacher. Does his ghosts have to do with his parents? Was he involved with his manager? Kailey comes into his life as a one night stand and reappears to let him know she’s pregnant. She doesn’t want anything from him but he immediately moves her in and becomes protective of her. She spends most of the time wavering between confusion, resentment, and jealousy. Her family isn’t convinced he’s the best thing for her, and he secretly agrees, but he can’t let her go. They seem to be growing closer, but that all comes to a screeching halt when Kailey realizes that the one thing she can’t live without is the one thing Ryder can’t give her. Unless they learn to trust, they’ll never understand how much they need each other. I loved this book and I would recommend it to anyone.
This book has all kinds of feels.... I felt so happy for Ryder and Kailey. They were such a cute couple. He was so sweet. So loving. So determined. To be honest Kailey got on my nerves at the beginning of the book. Pretty much throughout it actually lol. Her love for ryder made her character more likeable. I just thought she was naive. Didn’t trust her intentions with him. From the first book in the series we get a glimpse of Ryder being Knox’s country music celebrity brother. He was dark and brooding. Always kept to himself. I wanted to know more about him then and there. I wanted the dirt on him. I wanted to know why he was like that. Prescott Lane is an amazing author. She writes beautifully. Her characters are wonderful. You don’t have to have read Knox and Mae’s book to read this one. It’s pretty much a standalone. Although Knox and Mae make a cute appearance in this book. Get ready to have your heart ripped out in this book. I did!
This is an ARC review. All opinions are solely my own.
Ryder by Prescott Lane is book 2 of the Merrick Brothers series. This can be read as a stand alone. These books are full of content that is integral to the story.
This is so much more than a rock star/surprise pregnancy romance. This book broke me and then rebuilt me up. Ryder and Kailey are an epic story that is everything!! Ryder doesn't want anyone hurt by his celebrity and is so nurturing to Kailey. Kailey just wants to do the right thing.
I liked all of the background characters. The bond between Kailey and her sister, Addison is one that is so pure. Ryder's family and team really are just looking out for him.
This book covers some very heavy issues but does it with sensitivity and realism.
I can't wait to see what Prescott Lane brings to us next.
Ryder is the second book in the Merrick Brothers Series. If you loved Know, then just wait until you read Ryder’s story. After meeting Ryder in the first book I could not wait for his story. He is the complete opposite from his brother. He is basically a quiet loner, even though he is this big music star. He does not do relationships or LOVE. He cannot even say the word, and he has never written about it once. He likes to keep to himself except for when he brings a woman back to his hotel. But for the most part he is a lonely person and there is a reason for the way that he is. His past still cuts through him, and left him a broken man.
A chance meeting at a festival 3 months ago, turns into Kailey showing up at Ryder’s concert, in the front row, showing her baby bump. And yes it is Ryder’s baby. He certainly notices her and is completely distracted by her presence and her bump. So distracted that he is having trouble finishing the show. For him Kailey was the girl that got away, even if they only spent one night together. They had this amazing connection and she was just special. But he left her the next morning when he promised that he wouldn’t. Kailey does not want anything from him, and is still pissed that he left that morning. She wants to tell him she is pregnant and then leave. But Ryder is not having that at all. He wants to be a part of his baby’s life and hers. And he will not give up until she sees that. Can she forgive him? Can she believe that he truly wants her and not just because he is carrying his baby?
I loved Ryder. He is protective, dominating, a bit broody, a lot sexy and deep down he has a heart. He may not be able to tell someone that he loves them but he knows how to show his emotions and feelings. He certainly had his work cut out for him but he never let go of hope, he never gave up.
Kailey was just so sweet and loveable but she also did not take any crap from Ryder. She was his perfect match. I loved how she handled him and his publicist Maggie, who I had a hard time warming up to, but that is a different issue…lol. Kailey had feelings for Ryder from the beginning but she tried so hard not to let that get in the way of how much he hurt her when he left. But at the same time she knows that the man she met that night is still in there somewhere and she cannot help but fall for him all over again. And honestly I can’t blame her.
This was an emotional ride. Learning about Ryder’s past that has made him the way he is today will break your heart. I could truly understand why he couldn’t love someone again. But you could also see how much he loved Kailey even if he couldn’t say it. Ms. Prescott through in a few twists that were completely unexpected, but that’s what I think made this story feel even more real. There are some raw emotions in this book, but there are also many happy times and moments that will melt your heart. Another fantastic read by Ms. Prescott. I know that there are only two Merrick brothers so I am not sure that this is the end. While I didn’t warm up to Maggie until the end, I would still love to see her get her own story as well.
Okay. My review is going to be a bit of a mixed bag, and I hate that. I hate that for readers, and I hate that for the author. Ryder by Prescott Lane, for me, is a second-half book. That’s important to note because I think some readers might quit reading it if they don’t know that the strength of the book lies in his second half. Here’s the thing. I really liked Knox, the first Merrick Brothers’ book. It excited me that I had found a new author to read, so I was really looking forward to reading Ryder, especially after the blurb. I am a nut for secret baby stories. The revelation of a child to a person who is seemingly not suited to a child makes for a great story. And that’s here in Ryder. Even more, Ryder’s response to it is EVERYTHING in this book. In fact, Ryder, for me, is the best part of this book. Even when he makes choices that are problematic. Even when he fails to acknowledge feelings. Even when he’s being too worried, too possessive, too much. You cannot help but love Ryder. In fact, one of the main reasons that the second half of this book is the best part of it is Ryder. He’s a man with secrets, and Prescott Lane waits for much of the book to reveal them. In fact, I believe she waits too long. That being said, she brings about a lovely happy ending, so all is forgiven for making the reader wait. But it also slows the narrative down...A LOT.
I always give some love to the heroine, and Kailey’s characterization has strengths. She’s the first one to decide that Ryder is more than his music. She is resilient in her unplanned pregnancy and reaching out to Ryder. However, in Kailey’s evolution, there is quite a bit of inconsistency, and it sometimes makes the story feel repetitive and uneven. We could decide that its the effects of being pregnancy (you know, hormones), but I’m not sure. And it makes the first half of the book slow. As the story reaches its climax, then it takes off. You won’t be able to put it down, and the ending will make you feel as though your time, in the beginning, was worth it. Kailey’s strength finds purchase in the story eventually, and she is the perfect match for Ryder.
In the end, I liked Ryder, but I do think Knox is the stronger of the two books. As a character, Ryder pulled at my heartstrings, and he is my favorite type of hero, the broken kind. If you love that kind of hero, then you will like Ryder too, and I encourage you to grab this one along with its predecessor, Knox. You don’t want to miss out on both of Prescott Lane’s Merrick Brothers.
Ryder has achieved success as a musician that has exceeded his wildest dreams but the same can’t be said for his personal life. When he meets Kailey at a festival their attraction to each exceeds beyond the physical and they spent a night together that he will never forget but he believed that leaving before she awoke was the best thing he could do for her.
Kailey has finished college and is ready to face the next phase of her life until one night with Ryder changes everything. He had broken his promise and was gone before she woke up but she was prepared to just leave him in the past until she finds out that the two of them are about to become three.
She may want him to know about their child, but she doesn’t want him back in her life. She thought their night together was a beginning however he obviously didn’t feel the same way so she was expecting to tell him the news and be on her way but finding out that not only did he want to be a father but he wanted a second chance with her as well is a surprise she wasn’t expecting.
Kailey and Ryder definitely had their obstacles to overcome as not only does Ryder have to heal from his past, but he needs to show Kailey that she can trust him with her heart.
Ryder is the second book in the Merrick Brothers series, by Prescott Lane. It can be read as a standalone. Knox is the first book, there are characters that crossover into this book. Ryder’s story is an emotional one, it pulls at your heart strings. My heart broke for this poor man.....a gentle soul who endured so much heartache. Ryder is beautiful written and a story about accepting to be loved.
Ryder Merrick is a famous country singer, older brother to Hollywood actor Knox. He left his small hometown when he was young. Ryder left to pursue a music career and escape from his past. A past he doesn’t like to talk about. A past that haunts him where he fights he’s demons on a daily basis. On the outside he appears to have it all.....fame, money, meaningless sex/woman. But in the inside is a tortured young man. Will the girl he met and danced with in the rain....be the one to save him?
Kailey is a recent college graduate, hoping to land the job of her dreams. Except now she finds herself pregnant from a one night stand. A man she met at a Jazz festival, spent the day getting to know the real Ryder, the one who made her feel special. There were times she pissed me off especially when she pushed Ryder away....a time when they needed each another the most!
When they get back together, Ryder wasn’t going to let Kailey go again. He wants her in his life and wants to be a father to their baby. I loved watching them form a connection and bond with their unborn child. When tragedy strikes, who will survive and who won’t? Will Ryder loose himself all over again? I was happy with the way it ended. After everything they endured, Ryder and Kailey deserved happiness!
For me, it lacked any real depth and the development of the two leads was definitely missing. I didn't get why anyone around Ryder didn't get him some sort of help. Maggie felt incredibly manipulative... she enjoyed the power that she had over him... therefore it made sense that she wouldn't want to get him to see that what happened was awful, a tragedy... but not his fault... not his responsibility. Really? There was no-one else in his life that could offer the path to get the help he obviously needed? Made so sense to me. Yes, I get that if you are on a self-destruct path there is often very little that others can do... but this wasn't the case with Ryder. He was emotionally stunted. Maybe there was more to his back story in the previous book... but I'm not sure that I am invested enough in his character to read it.
Ryder is in a famous band and has a famous brother names Knox. He meets Kailey at a fall festival. She has no idea he's a famous musician. The two end up spending a night together and two months later she discovers she's pregnant. Kailey could just move on with her life with the baby but she wants to let Ryder know he's about to be a father. Ryder doesn't believe in love but Kailey makes him feel differently about life. He's determined to keep her around and be a father to his child. A good read with a surprise pregnancy.
What a rollercoaster ride! I loved Ryder and Kailey! A chance meeting leads to an unexpected pregnancy. What happens next is a whirlwind of emotion and angst, tenderness and devotion. Ryder and Kailey's lives are about to change forever. Are they ready for life's twists and turns?