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Four Point Universe #13
Maverick
Renowned doctor, Lauren Lewis, purchases an old Victorian home after the loss of her former residence and channels her energy into restoring the new property. When a wandering antique restorer shows up to take on the job, together, they uncover the secrets the house harbored for a century. With the turn of the seasons, their souls awaken like blooming lilacs in the spring, guiding them toward an adventure of their own.
- GenresLesbian
478 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2021
21 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Max Ellendale
33 books317 followersMax grew up just outside of New York City, spending most of her formative years outdoors creating wild ghost hunts with neighborhood kids, setting booby-traps to capture unwitting family members, and building clubhouses on top of ten-foot walls. Max wrote her first story at the age of twelve and titled it Circles of Friendship. Through the years, Max has written several short-stories and poems, all of which met the wrath of the “Not Good Enough” monster and ended in fiery demise.
Max regained her confidence when she began writing scholarly articles and research theses on her first trip through graduate school. It took several years for her to break the habit of the formal writing that marred her creativity. An additional Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing was Max’s biggest support in this. Max writes primarily sci-fi/fantasy, paranormal romance, and Young Adult stories.
Max regained her confidence when she began writing scholarly articles and research theses on her first trip through graduate school. It took several years for her to break the habit of the formal writing that marred her creativity. An additional Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing was Max’s biggest support in this. Max writes primarily sci-fi/fantasy, paranormal romance, and Young Adult stories.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 6, 2021
Beautiful Book, but I wouldn't expect anything else.
I've always loved Max's style of writing ever since I found her books. This one was no different and was a joy to read. The story of Lauren and Maverick unfolded beautifully and their interaction with other characters was so fantastic to read.
The only problem with this book for me was, despite being almost 500 pages, it wasn't long enough. Great book!
I've always loved Max's style of writing ever since I found her books. This one was no different and was a joy to read. The story of Lauren and Maverick unfolded beautifully and their interaction with other characters was so fantastic to read.
The only problem with this book for me was, despite being almost 500 pages, it wasn't long enough. Great book!
January 19, 2022
I'm unfortunately gonna have to buck the trend on this one, I really wanted to like it too. 2.5 stars, rounded down because of the (white as fuck) hippie appropriation, bastardisation and sexualisation of tantra.
On one hand, one of the most tender and loving romances I've ever read (the reading scenes, oh my lord they're absolutely exquisite). I can definitely see why people like her books, and her writing style is very nice too.
On the other hand, constant and dangerous psuedoscientific hippy bullshit (reflexology, reiki et al.) being put in the mouths of a *literal doctor*. At some point the main character puts an essential oil infuser in her private practice's waiting room. Yknow, like people with asthma and other respiratory conditions don't exist.
As someone from a medical family whose doctors have spend a significant portion of their careers fighting medical misinformation and pseudoscience because of the demonstrable harm they do to their patients, I can't find it anything other than disgusting.
If this were just a couple of moments it'd be annoying, but it happens a *lot.*
I tried to read another of Ellendale's books from this series, Wildrose, and it had a similar issue pop up. One character from the main couple is a physicist with specialisations in quantum (those amongst us unfortunately familiar with Deepak Chopra may already see where this is going). In this, the POV character comes along and talks about how cool QuAnTuM cOnScIoUsNeSs is, and the physicist is like "yeah me too!" As if quantum mysticism isn't universally reviled in physics communities.
From the two books of hers I've attempted, and given the overlap with characters from her previous novels, I get the strong sense that this author is going to appropriate advanced and technical disciplines as her personal mouthpiece whenever she feels like it, and that she just doesn't care to do any honest research about what these disciplines actually involve. I think I'm going to sit out on this author from now on unfortunately.
Also, slightly too many sex scenes for my taste, but that's comparatively mild.
On one hand, one of the most tender and loving romances I've ever read (the reading scenes, oh my lord they're absolutely exquisite). I can definitely see why people like her books, and her writing style is very nice too.
On the other hand, constant and dangerous psuedoscientific hippy bullshit (reflexology, reiki et al.) being put in the mouths of a *literal doctor*. At some point the main character puts an essential oil infuser in her private practice's waiting room. Yknow, like people with asthma and other respiratory conditions don't exist.
As someone from a medical family whose doctors have spend a significant portion of their careers fighting medical misinformation and pseudoscience because of the demonstrable harm they do to their patients, I can't find it anything other than disgusting.
If this were just a couple of moments it'd be annoying, but it happens a *lot.*
I tried to read another of Ellendale's books from this series, Wildrose, and it had a similar issue pop up. One character from the main couple is a physicist with specialisations in quantum (those amongst us unfortunately familiar with Deepak Chopra may already see where this is going). In this, the POV character comes along and talks about how cool QuAnTuM cOnScIoUsNeSs is, and the physicist is like "yeah me too!" As if quantum mysticism isn't universally reviled in physics communities.
From the two books of hers I've attempted, and given the overlap with characters from her previous novels, I get the strong sense that this author is going to appropriate advanced and technical disciplines as her personal mouthpiece whenever she feels like it, and that she just doesn't care to do any honest research about what these disciplines actually involve. I think I'm going to sit out on this author from now on unfortunately.
Also, slightly too many sex scenes for my taste, but that's comparatively mild.
September 22, 2021
All the happy feels!
This book just felt so good. I've read this series through a few times, so I was excited to see this book was out. As always, I loved seeing some of the characters I've known for years, but it was awesome to get to know the duo in this book.
The story was refreshingly sweet and healing, even in it's darker moments, there was a lot of light.
Being able to experience the process of healing and opening to love with Lauren and Mav was incredibly satisfying.
As happens whenever I read a new book in this series, I want more immediately, and I satiate that desire by going back and rereading some of my favorites, which change depending on my mood.
This book could stand alone, if someone was drawn to it specifically, and it doesn't contain too many spoilers. However, if you're considering it and haven't read the others, and have no specific reason this book calls out to you to read first, then I suggest starting at the beginning.
The series starts heavier and darker, as somewhat of a mystery/thriller, but not all the books in this universe are heavy and serious, some are lovely and light like this one. Some barely include the characters from the first handful of books, and some feature them more heavily.
I enjoyed every single one though, and will keep reading as long as Ellendale keeps publishing, and honestly, even if she stops (universe forbid) these books are all fantastic to reread as well.
This book just felt so good. I've read this series through a few times, so I was excited to see this book was out. As always, I loved seeing some of the characters I've known for years, but it was awesome to get to know the duo in this book.
The story was refreshingly sweet and healing, even in it's darker moments, there was a lot of light.
Being able to experience the process of healing and opening to love with Lauren and Mav was incredibly satisfying.
As happens whenever I read a new book in this series, I want more immediately, and I satiate that desire by going back and rereading some of my favorites, which change depending on my mood.
This book could stand alone, if someone was drawn to it specifically, and it doesn't contain too many spoilers. However, if you're considering it and haven't read the others, and have no specific reason this book calls out to you to read first, then I suggest starting at the beginning.
The series starts heavier and darker, as somewhat of a mystery/thriller, but not all the books in this universe are heavy and serious, some are lovely and light like this one. Some barely include the characters from the first handful of books, and some feature them more heavily.
I enjoyed every single one though, and will keep reading as long as Ellendale keeps publishing, and honestly, even if she stops (universe forbid) these books are all fantastic to reread as well.
September 29, 2021
Maverick
I am never disappointed when it comes to reading a Four Point Universe book! They can take you through so many different emotional levels and leave you hungry for more! I loved reading this book as much as I did the others. All anyone needs to know is.....be prepared to cry, laugh and to feel as Max Ellendale takes you through another emotional rollercoaster ride. She always gives you everything you could ask for and then gives you more! I enjoyed the complexity of each and every character within the story and I happily celebrated every milestone they overcame. The friendships that was more like family made turning each page a wonder in itself. I can't wait for the next in the series as I know it will be just as good, if not better, than the rest!
I am never disappointed when it comes to reading a Four Point Universe book! They can take you through so many different emotional levels and leave you hungry for more! I loved reading this book as much as I did the others. All anyone needs to know is.....be prepared to cry, laugh and to feel as Max Ellendale takes you through another emotional rollercoaster ride. She always gives you everything you could ask for and then gives you more! I enjoyed the complexity of each and every character within the story and I happily celebrated every milestone they overcame. The friendships that was more like family made turning each page a wonder in itself. I can't wait for the next in the series as I know it will be just as good, if not better, than the rest!
September 8, 2021
Another great one
What a fantastic series. In this latest installment, Lauren, suffers a traumatic event that leaves her shaken. She buys an old house and hires a restoration specialist, Maverick, to help her preserve and restore the beautiful old home. As they discover the house's hidden secrets, they also slowly discover they're a perfect fit. A slow burn romance about helping each other heal through the power of love & friendships.
What a fantastic series. In this latest installment, Lauren, suffers a traumatic event that leaves her shaken. She buys an old house and hires a restoration specialist, Maverick, to help her preserve and restore the beautiful old home. As they discover the house's hidden secrets, they also slowly discover they're a perfect fit. A slow burn romance about helping each other heal through the power of love & friendships.
April 21, 2024
The Spiral Staircase.
Dr. Lauren Lewis is the OB/GYN of choice for all the lesbians and women who have suffered trauma. When her condo is burned down and she loses everything she buys an old Victorian house to restore and make her own. Maverick Brown is an Army veteran, a medic, a Navaho Indian and an expert at restoring Victorian houses. The two women quickly become friends and reach out to heal and help each other. Wonderful story.
Dr. Lauren Lewis is the OB/GYN of choice for all the lesbians and women who have suffered trauma. When her condo is burned down and she loses everything she buys an old Victorian house to restore and make her own. Maverick Brown is an Army veteran, a medic, a Navaho Indian and an expert at restoring Victorian houses. The two women quickly become friends and reach out to heal and help each other. Wonderful story.
September 9, 2021
Max continues to deliver complex, beautiful characters
Who live and love in the 4 points universe. Maverick is a wonderful butch, who is mesmerized by her hippy employer.
I enjoyed the glimpse into the world of yoga, tea and herbal medicine.
Max does an excellent job of sharing the trauma of caregivingn in the military and civilian life.
Who live and love in the 4 points universe. Maverick is a wonderful butch, who is mesmerized by her hippy employer.
I enjoyed the glimpse into the world of yoga, tea and herbal medicine.
Max does an excellent job of sharing the trauma of caregivingn in the military and civilian life.
September 11, 2021
Enjoyable book
I have loved this series, the intertwined stories and the progression of development with the relationships. They all explore themes that are not unnecessarily discussed by many. I would recommend this series to all. Thanks for continuing the series and I would love to read more.
I have loved this series, the intertwined stories and the progression of development with the relationships. They all explore themes that are not unnecessarily discussed by many. I would recommend this series to all. Thanks for continuing the series and I would love to read more.
September 12, 2021
Good book
As the universe keeps getting bigger with all the characters that Max gives us. Lauren and Maverick is written so beautiful that it has as flow about it. That you feel every hug and kiss that will happen, which brings these together. Would love a short story about Martha and Sarah who lived in the house before.
As the universe keeps getting bigger with all the characters that Max gives us. Lauren and Maverick is written so beautiful that it has as flow about it. That you feel every hug and kiss that will happen, which brings these together. Would love a short story about Martha and Sarah who lived in the house before.
October 9, 2021
Pulls on the heart strings
This story really pulled me in and I couldn't stop reading. The characters and their personalities were so well written that I didn't want the book to end. The love story between the main characters felt so real and natural. I love that they understood each other so well with no judgemen.
This story really pulled me in and I couldn't stop reading. The characters and their personalities were so well written that I didn't want the book to end. The love story between the main characters felt so real and natural. I love that they understood each other so well with no judgemen.
October 10, 2021
wow
How in the world are we on book 13 and not burnt out yet. Incredible. Max does it again. Writing another story that makes us fall in love with new characters, and dive deeper with the ones we already knew. I love Max’s books so much. And can’t wait to see what she writes next.
How in the world are we on book 13 and not burnt out yet. Incredible. Max does it again. Writing another story that makes us fall in love with new characters, and dive deeper with the ones we already knew. I love Max’s books so much. And can’t wait to see what she writes next.
October 29, 2021
Another beautiful sexy story
It’s always a great story with Max Ellendale. I waited to start because I knew that I would hate to see it end.
It’s seems that we’re branching a bit into a new area but still connected to old friends and familiar places. I’m excited to see what happens next and can’t wait to read the next one.
It’s always a great story with Max Ellendale. I waited to start because I knew that I would hate to see it end.
It’s seems that we’re branching a bit into a new area but still connected to old friends and familiar places. I’m excited to see what happens next and can’t wait to read the next one.
May 18, 2023
Delightfully fun
Capturing fears in a fun and sexy way, Max Ellendale paces this story of love with the energy of "witches." All the doctors' involved empathy for others, the description of hugs, and the support of true friends made my heart lighter and so happy. I want to read it again!
Capturing fears in a fun and sexy way, Max Ellendale paces this story of love with the energy of "witches." All the doctors' involved empathy for others, the description of hugs, and the support of true friends made my heart lighter and so happy. I want to read it again!
September 14, 2021
Another trademark Max Ellendale book. The writing flows beautifully. Lauren and Maverick are charming, quirky and their interactions are fueled with heat and sensual, explosive, adorable, loving chemistry wrapped into one.
Nothing has yet to top Hart And Stocker in Max Ellendale's book list in my opinion, but this novel is easily a second. I skip a little bit towards the last third. The writing and characters are wonderful all the way through, but after they realize their attraction to each other little seems to happen. It's very true to real life, and I guess in the context of this book it's hard to write it otherwise without making it needlessly angsty.
Nothing has yet to top Hart And Stocker in Max Ellendale's book list in my opinion, but this novel is easily a second. I skip a little bit towards the last third. The writing and characters are wonderful all the way through, but after they realize their attraction to each other little seems to happen. It's very true to real life, and I guess in the context of this book it's hard to write it otherwise without making it needlessly angsty.
September 11, 2021
Max Ellendale creates wonderfully complex characters and then skilfully weaves them into the brilliant tapestry of her Four Point Universe! I have never been disappointed reading any of her books and can only look forward to the expanding “Universe”.
September 20, 2021
Fabulous!
A fabulous read! I am in love with Lauren Lewis. Well written characters with good pacing and guest appearances. The storyline was interesting and packed plenty of heat. Highly recommend!
A fabulous read! I am in love with Lauren Lewis. Well written characters with good pacing and guest appearances. The storyline was interesting and packed plenty of heat. Highly recommend!
September 22, 2021
Another broken woman healed by love
Another book in the 4 points universe about our favorite collective of broken, bruised & beleaguered lesbians (& bisexuals too!) finding their happy place with their chosen family & finding healing in the love of their woman.
Another book in the 4 points universe about our favorite collective of broken, bruised & beleaguered lesbians (& bisexuals too!) finding their happy place with their chosen family & finding healing in the love of their woman.
September 14, 2021
Excellent!
I loved Maverick. WOW! If you need a book to restore your faith in humanity or friendship, this is it. Absolutely wonderful. Will be added to my reread list.
I loved Maverick. WOW! If you need a book to restore your faith in humanity or friendship, this is it. Absolutely wonderful. Will be added to my reread list.
September 10, 2023
only one book left :(
May 12, 2024
My favorite of them all.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews