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Ryder Ranch #3
Missing Maverick
I was going to love her until my last breath, and she promised to do the same… but she lied.
Cricket McBride packed up without warning, ditching our small town and the life we were going to build together. She left me with tears in her eyes, a kiss on my cheek, and an empty heart that had done nothing but hardened over the years.
My life wasn’t what I thought it would be, but I’d long since accepted it for what it was. I was content with working on my family ranch and being the best father I could. And I was fine with that.
Or so I thought.
When Cricket returned, one look was all it took for me to admit I still cared, but it wasn’t until I saw the marks on her skin and the pain in her soul that I realized just how deep that love went. Because the same hands that held her tight also promised to protect her… and I never broke a promise.
Cricket McBride packed up without warning, ditching our small town and the life we were going to build together. She left me with tears in her eyes, a kiss on my cheek, and an empty heart that had done nothing but hardened over the years.
My life wasn’t what I thought it would be, but I’d long since accepted it for what it was. I was content with working on my family ranch and being the best father I could. And I was fine with that.
Or so I thought.
When Cricket returned, one look was all it took for me to admit I still cared, but it wasn’t until I saw the marks on her skin and the pain in her soul that I realized just how deep that love went. Because the same hands that held her tight also promised to protect her… and I never broke a promise.
266 pages, Paperback
First published October 14, 2021
24 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Anna Brooks
83 books1,002 followersBe sure to follow me on Bookbub for sales and new release alerts! https://www.bookbub.com/profile/anna-...
The first time Anna tried to read a romance novel, her hair caught on fire when she leaned over a candle to sneak a peek at her mom’s Harlequin. She thinks being hit on the head with a shirtless Fabio until the smoke cleared is what sparked the flame for her love of romance.
Anna was born in Wisconsin, but currently lives in Texas with her husband and two boys. She writes sexy romance that always has a happy ending and loves bringing characters back for cameos. Less than six degrees of separation connects any of her novels.
When she’s not writing or reading, she’s watching reruns of her favorite romcoms, talking to her dog and cat like they’re human, eating carbs, or practicing hand lettering.
She loves to hear from readers and can be found on social media as @annabrooksauth everywhere.
The first time Anna tried to read a romance novel, her hair caught on fire when she leaned over a candle to sneak a peek at her mom’s Harlequin. She thinks being hit on the head with a shirtless Fabio until the smoke cleared is what sparked the flame for her love of romance.
Anna was born in Wisconsin, but currently lives in Texas with her husband and two boys. She writes sexy romance that always has a happy ending and loves bringing characters back for cameos. Less than six degrees of separation connects any of her novels.
When she’s not writing or reading, she’s watching reruns of her favorite romcoms, talking to her dog and cat like they’re human, eating carbs, or practicing hand lettering.
She loves to hear from readers and can be found on social media as @annabrooksauth everywhere.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
October 9, 2021
I really enjoyed Maverick and Cricket's story. I really felt for both of them. They both did things that they shouldn't have based on assumptions they had on how each other would/was reacting to situations.
I loved Maverick! He's that alpha, possessive, protective, she's mine kinda guy. He loves his kids and is striving to be the best dad he can be. Cricket, I liked, but I felt like she just kept the issues going by not learning from her past mistakes.
I wish we would've gotten an epilogue. I felt like their ending was kinda left hanging. I wanted more. Still a great book though.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved Maverick! He's that alpha, possessive, protective, she's mine kinda guy. He loves his kids and is striving to be the best dad he can be. Cricket, I liked, but I felt like she just kept the issues going by not learning from her past mistakes.
I wish we would've gotten an epilogue. I felt like their ending was kinda left hanging. I wanted more. Still a great book though.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 10, 2021
4.5 stars
Oh, Maverick, you are a stubborn, hot-headed man. I was waiting on your book and not disappointed. But you frustrated me with the time you wasted. Your actions and anger led to delays. Although Cricket had her missteps and was not blameless, she thought she was doing the right thing. Together you are better, stronger, and complete. You two will make the most of this second chance.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Oh, Maverick, you are a stubborn, hot-headed man. I was waiting on your book and not disappointed. But you frustrated me with the time you wasted. Your actions and anger led to delays. Although Cricket had her missteps and was not blameless, she thought she was doing the right thing. Together you are better, stronger, and complete. You two will make the most of this second chance.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
November 27, 2021
Missing Maverick by Anna Brooks is book 3 in the Ryder Ranch Series. This is the story of Maverick and Cricket. I have read the previous book which did add to my understanding and enjoyment of this one. Cricket and Maverick when they where younger were best friends that turned romantic. But then Cricket just up and left him which broke Maverick's heart. Now in their present day, Maverick is a job focused, drinking and man-whore who finds out he father two different children by two different women. Cricket is back in town after a failed abusive marriage and to help her family's dinner. Both have hurt feelings at first but soon the old ones start to come back.
October 14, 2021
Maverick and Cricket, as much as their push and pull, more of the pulling from each other, frustrates me, I still enjoyed their story. They gave me all the feels. They still feel so much towards each other. I mean, they promised forever with each other. But Maverick was angry, understandably, that Cricket left him. You can feel the love, tension, and all the feels while reading their story. I loved every second of it.
October 15, 2021
I really enjoyed Maverick and Cricket's story. I have to say this was a heart felt and emotional read. Maverick kids just adorable and added to the laugh factor of the story. The whole time reading this story my thoughts were so much time lost between this couple because of lack of communication, assumptions of what the other would do or think or say, not being truthful with one another or honest with one another with their feelings.
Maverick was a wonderful dad, short-tempered, alpha, possessive, protective, hot headed no matter his faults he is doing the best he can for his kids being a single dad and all.
Cricket was a character easy to love faults and all but, her heart was genuine.
Cricket and Maverick were soulmates and even apart their love for one another never waned but, neither of them have yet to learn from the past making the same mistakes over and over again. There were times we just wanted to scream at both of them to stop being pigheaded, to sit the heck down to hash things out and start telling the truth about your feelings and stop hiding things from one another. So frustrating...
These characters had major chemistry that lead to many hot and sexy scenes.
Overall we really enjoyed this second chase romance full of all sorts of complications but, also full of a lot of love. My only complaint who be that we did not like the way this story ended, it really needed an epilogue as this couple really deserved one to see if they got things right this time around and if they lasted the long hall.
Maverick was a wonderful dad, short-tempered, alpha, possessive, protective, hot headed no matter his faults he is doing the best he can for his kids being a single dad and all.
Cricket was a character easy to love faults and all but, her heart was genuine.
Cricket and Maverick were soulmates and even apart their love for one another never waned but, neither of them have yet to learn from the past making the same mistakes over and over again. There were times we just wanted to scream at both of them to stop being pigheaded, to sit the heck down to hash things out and start telling the truth about your feelings and stop hiding things from one another. So frustrating...
These characters had major chemistry that lead to many hot and sexy scenes.
Overall we really enjoyed this second chase romance full of all sorts of complications but, also full of a lot of love. My only complaint who be that we did not like the way this story ended, it really needed an epilogue as this couple really deserved one to see if they got things right this time around and if they lasted the long hall.
October 18, 2021
What a wild ride! After the major bomb from the last book where we find that Maverick has a second child, I was interested in figuring out who he would end up with – and Anna made sure that this second chance romance withheld the test of time. Cricket and Maverick were together forever, until she wants to leave for life outside of the small town and he has responsibilities at home after his mother abandons the family. Years later, Cricket finally returns home after a bad divorce where her ex-husband almost killed her, and Maverick is navigating a budding relationship with his long-lost daughter. While Maverick fights his reaction to Cricket and how his feelings have stayed the same after all those years. The suspense of figuring out who was behind the attempts on Cricket’s life while also seeing them re-establish their relationship was so good, and I was so happy that they got the HEA they always needed! I can’t wait to see what happens next with these characters and I hope Anna continues this series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 13, 2021
Missing Maverick is a second chance romance with some brilliant twists and turns that keep you engrossed throughout. When Cricket not only left town but also broke Maverick hearts at the same time when they were 18, nobody thought that 13 years later she would return, a top NY Chef owning an award-winning restaurant and married to A-lister the world she is at her feet, but not is all as it seems, now divorced and broken she has now returned to the one place she should never have left, to now run her parents diner, but time has moved on, and not everyone has warm opening arms to her, especially Maverick who never left town and is now a dad two girls, one he has only just found out about.
However, the one thing that is clear the attraction between the two is as strong as ever, but some revelations still need to be revealed, which made my mouth drop.
However, the one thing that is clear the attraction between the two is as strong as ever, but some revelations still need to be revealed, which made my mouth drop.
October 14, 2021
Having read the two previous books in this series I've wanted more of this world. So when I found out about this third book i instantly started looking forward to it! I got back into the Ryder Ranch world quickly. I enjoyed this third installment!
Maverick and Cricket's journey isn't an easy one. I really liked how these two had a history and how I wasn't sure how they were going to tackle things in their present. I enjoyed digging deeper with these two and how both characters had me feeling all kinds of things throughout.
With Missing Maverick, Ms.Brooks has created a good read! I can't wait for the fourth installment, Unraveling Mack Ryder! Looking forward to getting back into the Ryder Ranch world!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
Maverick and Cricket's journey isn't an easy one. I really liked how these two had a history and how I wasn't sure how they were going to tackle things in their present. I enjoyed digging deeper with these two and how both characters had me feeling all kinds of things throughout.
With Missing Maverick, Ms.Brooks has created a good read! I can't wait for the fourth installment, Unraveling Mack Ryder! Looking forward to getting back into the Ryder Ranch world!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
December 2, 2021
Oh my heart is so full after reading this book. Anna captured my attention from page one and so I ended up reading this book in one sitting.
I already knew Mavericks book was going to be awesome. I mean how could it not especially when he had been through so much since Cricket left him. His love for daughters tugged on my heart strings majorly.
When Cricket came back she was already so broken and boy did Maverick as well as other not make it easy for her. But she is a strong woman that faced them all and did it dignity.
Their coming together was more then a HEA it was beautiful and shows how important it is to have open conversations.
This book was outstanding......
Grab this book ladies you.
Enjoy.....
I already knew Mavericks book was going to be awesome. I mean how could it not especially when he had been through so much since Cricket left him. His love for daughters tugged on my heart strings majorly.
When Cricket came back she was already so broken and boy did Maverick as well as other not make it easy for her. But she is a strong woman that faced them all and did it dignity.
Their coming together was more then a HEA it was beautiful and shows how important it is to have open conversations.
This book was outstanding......
Grab this book ladies you.
Enjoy.....
October 9, 2021
I know that Cricket was built up to be this horrible person by everyone before now, but I also just KNEW that everyone had to be wrong. And yet, I was so bitter when I found out just how right I was. She broke her own heart to so right by someone else, then had those pieces crushed into dust soon after. So she disappeared. And I couldn’t find one shred of blame for that. Not. Even. One. Maverick, though? Oh, I had a LOT of anger for him. He was hotheaded, stubborn, cruel at times, and so utterly immature about a few things that I had to remind myself he was a character in a book. Like, that’s how realistic he and his behavior were. And even with all of that anger, I had to like him. I just didn’t have to like his actions all the time. But I had to adore Cricket from start to finish. She went through misery a few times, but she kept on going. She knew she was utterly reviled by so many, but she showed up to do right by everyone. And when everything came out, I wanted to sob for her.
The best part of this book wasn’t even how Cricket and Maverick found their way back to each other. It was how completely Cricket proved to everyone that she tried to do right then, now, and forever. It was how she kept getting up after being slapped down by people she once loved more than anything. It was how she still had a kind word and shoulder for those same people. And it was how this family felt so very real that I was sad to hit the last page. But we’ll see more of them all soon enough, so I’ll make myself happy with that. For now.
The best part of this book wasn’t even how Cricket and Maverick found their way back to each other. It was how completely Cricket proved to everyone that she tried to do right then, now, and forever. It was how she kept getting up after being slapped down by people she once loved more than anything. It was how she still had a kind word and shoulder for those same people. And it was how this family felt so very real that I was sad to hit the last page. But we’ll see more of them all soon enough, so I’ll make myself happy with that. For now.
December 2, 2021
Maverick and Cricket's story was packed full of emotions.
Loss, assumptions, and forgiveness made for a riveting read which I didn't want to put down.
Through all the difficult parts I still saw the glimmers of hope that were sprinkled through, the little nuggets kept me believing that things would work out.
It was hard seeing all their hurt and mistakes put on display but their story was still beautiful.
Finally meeting the mother gave me a sense of peace, and I feel like I can finally close the notebook on that part.
Though I know it will probably be difficult to get through, I am very much looking forward to Mack's story.
Loss, assumptions, and forgiveness made for a riveting read which I didn't want to put down.
Through all the difficult parts I still saw the glimmers of hope that were sprinkled through, the little nuggets kept me believing that things would work out.
It was hard seeing all their hurt and mistakes put on display but their story was still beautiful.
Finally meeting the mother gave me a sense of peace, and I feel like I can finally close the notebook on that part.
Though I know it will probably be difficult to get through, I am very much looking forward to Mack's story.
October 11, 2021
This book certainly fits ‘all the feels’ within its pages. “Missing Maverick” is the third book in the ‘Ryder Ranch’ series by Anna Brooks. I believe you can definitely enjoy it as a standalone.
Maverick and Cricket were best friends since childhood, which evolved into becoming high school sweethearts. They promised one another forever together, but then she left and the consequences for both of them were devastating. She throws herself into her career and find great success in that, but it leaves her feeling empty. Cricket also ends up in a loveless marriage with a man who treats her worse than abominably. (Connected with that, Royal Ace Security plays a small role in this story, which is particularly cool if you’ve read that series.) Maverick never dates, he just has emotionless hook-ups. He spent years drowning himself in hard work, liquor and meaningless sex. Oh, and he finds out he fathered a daughter when the girl is already 10 years old, and another child from an encounter he was too drunk to even remember. Despicable, right? Somehow when you have it all in context, you realize Maverick isn’t despicable at all.
When Cricket returns home to their small town, with plans to stay there permanently, she and Maverick and their families have a lot of feelings to deal with and adjusting to do. Throughout the book I kept wondering what Cricket was hiding about the reason she’d left more than a decade ago. I kept thinking of different possible scenarios. Well, nothing I imagined came close to what she later revealed. Whoa and Wow. She and Maverick kept trying to protect one another and protect their own broken hearts, and in the process kept unintentionally doing the exact opposite. The chemistry and undying love between them is so powerful, they can't resist its pull even when they try.
Adding to the stress in this story are developments with the issue of Maverick’s mother, who abandoned his father, him and his siblings just months before Cricket vanished. I think whether or not you’ve read the previous books in the series, these scenes are powerful. It seems that the next book in the series will focus on Maverick’s father, and it’s pointing in an unexpected but interesting direction. In each book other family members play secondary roles and we learn more about what’s going on in their lives. I’m really hoping that we’re going to learn more about what happens in the future with Cricket and Maverick, because after experiencing this story I feel so emotionally invested in them!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy.
Maverick and Cricket were best friends since childhood, which evolved into becoming high school sweethearts. They promised one another forever together, but then she left and the consequences for both of them were devastating. She throws herself into her career and find great success in that, but it leaves her feeling empty. Cricket also ends up in a loveless marriage with a man who treats her worse than abominably. (Connected with that, Royal Ace Security plays a small role in this story, which is particularly cool if you’ve read that series.) Maverick never dates, he just has emotionless hook-ups. He spent years drowning himself in hard work, liquor and meaningless sex. Oh, and he finds out he fathered a daughter when the girl is already 10 years old, and another child from an encounter he was too drunk to even remember. Despicable, right? Somehow when you have it all in context, you realize Maverick isn’t despicable at all.
When Cricket returns home to their small town, with plans to stay there permanently, she and Maverick and their families have a lot of feelings to deal with and adjusting to do. Throughout the book I kept wondering what Cricket was hiding about the reason she’d left more than a decade ago. I kept thinking of different possible scenarios. Well, nothing I imagined came close to what she later revealed. Whoa and Wow. She and Maverick kept trying to protect one another and protect their own broken hearts, and in the process kept unintentionally doing the exact opposite. The chemistry and undying love between them is so powerful, they can't resist its pull even when they try.
Adding to the stress in this story are developments with the issue of Maverick’s mother, who abandoned his father, him and his siblings just months before Cricket vanished. I think whether or not you’ve read the previous books in the series, these scenes are powerful. It seems that the next book in the series will focus on Maverick’s father, and it’s pointing in an unexpected but interesting direction. In each book other family members play secondary roles and we learn more about what’s going on in their lives. I’m really hoping that we’re going to learn more about what happens in the future with Cricket and Maverick, because after experiencing this story I feel so emotionally invested in them!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy.
October 10, 2021
Maverick Ryder has been in love with Cricket McBride for as long as he can remember and they promised each other forever until she left with no warning. Now Maverick has moved on with his life, which includes his two daughter, Aubrey and Dixie Mae.
Now Cricket has returned to town and Maverick needs to figure why she came back and if he's willing to risk his heart being broken once again.
This is another great book in the series and it really fills in some gaps and gives some closure on certain events.
I really liked Maverick as he was stubborn as they come but also completely dedicated to his family and also his daughters. He had so much guilt over missing so much of Aubrey's life and wanted to make it up to her and I loved that the girls loved each other so much as well.
Cricket was a great character who was obviously on the run from her more recent past but had truly made something of herself while she was in New York. Yet there were a lot of unanswered questions about why she left and what she hadn't told Maverick about why she left. It was funny that she and Maverick could find the time for sex but could never find the time to actually talk about their lives in great detail.
There was so much past and lack of talking that was preventing anything from being resolved between Maverick and Cricket for so long in the book. They both truly still loved each other but there was also a huge wall up between them which didn't seem to be budging much. I was getting a little frustrated at these two inability to actually talk.
I was happy that Maverick figured out right away that someone had hurt Cricket but I was mad at her for not telling him things and everything seemed to be going around in circles. Every time I thought we had some headway something would happen to push it all back again.
There was so much jealousy on both Cricket and Maverick's accounts so you knew things were far from over and you just had to wait until things were ready.
I was so happy that Maverick was at the right place at a certain point in time which worked out but I was a little frustrated that Molly had to tell Maverick things that should have come from Cricket but it still made a huge difference.
The end provided some huge closure but at the same time I felt like it wasn't enough and the reasoning behind everything wasn't enough for the damage that it did to the Ryder family. As a mom I couldn't imagine doing what was done and not having the courage to admit a mistake until it was almost too late.
Definitely looking forward to whatever is coming next!
Now Cricket has returned to town and Maverick needs to figure why she came back and if he's willing to risk his heart being broken once again.
This is another great book in the series and it really fills in some gaps and gives some closure on certain events.
I really liked Maverick as he was stubborn as they come but also completely dedicated to his family and also his daughters. He had so much guilt over missing so much of Aubrey's life and wanted to make it up to her and I loved that the girls loved each other so much as well.
Cricket was a great character who was obviously on the run from her more recent past but had truly made something of herself while she was in New York. Yet there were a lot of unanswered questions about why she left and what she hadn't told Maverick about why she left. It was funny that she and Maverick could find the time for sex but could never find the time to actually talk about their lives in great detail.
There was so much past and lack of talking that was preventing anything from being resolved between Maverick and Cricket for so long in the book. They both truly still loved each other but there was also a huge wall up between them which didn't seem to be budging much. I was getting a little frustrated at these two inability to actually talk.
I was happy that Maverick figured out right away that someone had hurt Cricket but I was mad at her for not telling him things and everything seemed to be going around in circles. Every time I thought we had some headway something would happen to push it all back again.
There was so much jealousy on both Cricket and Maverick's accounts so you knew things were far from over and you just had to wait until things were ready.
I was so happy that Maverick was at the right place at a certain point in time which worked out but I was a little frustrated that Molly had to tell Maverick things that should have come from Cricket but it still made a huge difference.
The end provided some huge closure but at the same time I felt like it wasn't enough and the reasoning behind everything wasn't enough for the damage that it did to the Ryder family. As a mom I couldn't imagine doing what was done and not having the courage to admit a mistake until it was almost too late.
Definitely looking forward to whatever is coming next!
October 13, 2021
This is book three in The Ryder Ranch Series and it is Maverick and Cricket's story and omg it is definitely a must read. Cricket and Maverick had been so in love and promised each other forever but things didn't work out as planned and they were both left heartbroken. Maverick is a single father to two beautiful daughters who he loved so much even though sometimes it was hard but he wouldn't change it for anything as they were his life and he would do anything for them. Cricket was leaving New York after selling her restaurant after going through a traumatic experience and messy divorce but now she was going back home to Warrenville in Texas to start her life again and help her parent's in the family diner even though she knew that a lot of people are not going to be happy that she has returned especially Maverick and his family but she will just have to deal with it and hope it gets better with time. When Maverick sees Cricket for the first time in the diner after so many years he is angry, shocked and walks out. Maverick and Cricket's connection and chemistry between them is still as strong as ever but will be let his walls down and give them a second chance of happiness or will be just ignore her and get on with his life so that he doesn't get hurt again only time will tell. I absolutely loved this book and I couldn't put it down as it was so addictive and a real page turner. I have read all the books in this series but I have to say that this one is definitely my favourite and I can't wait to read more books in this series. Anna Brooks is an amazing author and writer and she is fast becoming one of my go to authors as her stories have so much depth to them and they keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what would happen next and I can't wait to read more of her books as they are definitely worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 14, 2021
This is book 3 in the Ryder Ranch Series and we have been patiently waiting Maverick's story as we have had many glimpses of the love he once had and the hate that his broken heart has lead to. Will they find a way to leave the past where it belongs and more forward?
Maverick was lost when his best friend and high school sweetheart who he had promised his life with, just up and leaves him with no word. Turning to work, booze and meaningless sex has been his attempt at getting by. Some of those events have brought him some special kind of love with his two beautiful girls Aubrey and Dixie May. The love he once gave to one girl is now shared with his little girls that he is an amazing father to. Something is still missing though, the whole in his heart that was left behind has never healed.
Cricket made the choices she made all those years ago when she packed up and left her one love behind, change the course that they had planned out. She tried to move on and make a new life, she became a successful chef, owning her own business, even getting married. With that life now crumbled apart, she is headed back home, where she knows the small town will be hard to face, but needed in to be there for her parents and put on her big girl panties.
Will Cricket and Maverick be able to share the small town they once loved and all the memories they shared or will the hate the loss from a decade ago be too much?
The constant push and pull between these characters was a lot to take in while reading. I felt myself getting mad at them for not really communicating. An emotional read that will keep you vested in following it to the end.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
Maverick was lost when his best friend and high school sweetheart who he had promised his life with, just up and leaves him with no word. Turning to work, booze and meaningless sex has been his attempt at getting by. Some of those events have brought him some special kind of love with his two beautiful girls Aubrey and Dixie May. The love he once gave to one girl is now shared with his little girls that he is an amazing father to. Something is still missing though, the whole in his heart that was left behind has never healed.
Cricket made the choices she made all those years ago when she packed up and left her one love behind, change the course that they had planned out. She tried to move on and make a new life, she became a successful chef, owning her own business, even getting married. With that life now crumbled apart, she is headed back home, where she knows the small town will be hard to face, but needed in to be there for her parents and put on her big girl panties.
Will Cricket and Maverick be able to share the small town they once loved and all the memories they shared or will the hate the loss from a decade ago be too much?
The constant push and pull between these characters was a lot to take in while reading. I felt myself getting mad at them for not really communicating. An emotional read that will keep you vested in following it to the end.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
October 12, 2021
After reading about Maverick’s reaction in previous books anytime Cricket was brought up you knew he harbored intense feelings towards her and those feelings were mostly of the hate kind. Maverick hasn’t had it easy lately finding out he had a daughter he knew nothing about with an immature crazy person and also having a young daughter with an alcoholic but when the love of his life walked away form him years ago the only way he knew how to cope was drown his sorrows. Now years later and some growing up he lives for his kids and he still has a deep hatred for the woman who broke his heart. Cricket left her small town and her heart behind years ago but she is back and wants to right her wrongs. She has been painted in this bad light by everyone but no one really knows her reasoning and I knew it had to be good for her to walk away from Maverick. WIth so much animosity that borders on hatred yet love these two have a serious uphill battle to endure to even see if they can forgive each other. Both have hurt each other and Maverick really didn’t make it easy on Cricket coming back to his life. Maverick’s daughters were so sweet when it came to Cricket and I was happy when his siblings finally came around to accepting her being back, but there is some baby mama drama and I just knew that Piper’s nice facade couldn’t last long and her true colors would show, I just hope this is the last we see of her. This was an emotional read and it went back and forth for pretty much the whole thing but when the truth comes to light there is no stopping true love. “……even though the universe kept throwing us together, fate continued to tear us apart.”
October 10, 2021
Full of angst, second chances, and lots of family. There is a ton of emotion in this third Ryder Ranch book, so get a box of tissues ready.
There were so many people affected when Cricket McBride left town over a decade ago. She not only was Mavericks girlfriend, she was woven into the very town, the very Ryder family. When Cricket left she left Maverick, his brothers, his sister and other people in their small town. Moving back wouldn't be easy, but Cricket is returning after nearly fifteen years without a word. While making amends won't be easy she doesn't plan to stay hidden and she'll start with apologizing to the man she hurt the most.
Cricket had no idea Maverick was a father, two times over. While she was living in New York, married to another man, she never envisioned that he would have children with someone else, but the truth is, Maverick hasn't been living his best life. He's been wallowing in misery since Cricket left. While he loves his daughters, he doesn't exactly love the women he fathered them with. Does he picture his life differently...every day. He pictures living with Cricket and raising his children with the woman who still holds his heart, but does he trust Cricket....not a chance.
Can these two pick up the pieces after so much time, so much pain, so much water under the bridge?
Missing Maverick is full of emotions. Cricket played an integral part in so many peoples lives that this book weaves through a lot of the Ryder family as she makes amends. It's a story about redemption, forgiveness, and second chances.
There were so many people affected when Cricket McBride left town over a decade ago. She not only was Mavericks girlfriend, she was woven into the very town, the very Ryder family. When Cricket left she left Maverick, his brothers, his sister and other people in their small town. Moving back wouldn't be easy, but Cricket is returning after nearly fifteen years without a word. While making amends won't be easy she doesn't plan to stay hidden and she'll start with apologizing to the man she hurt the most.
Cricket had no idea Maverick was a father, two times over. While she was living in New York, married to another man, she never envisioned that he would have children with someone else, but the truth is, Maverick hasn't been living his best life. He's been wallowing in misery since Cricket left. While he loves his daughters, he doesn't exactly love the women he fathered them with. Does he picture his life differently...every day. He pictures living with Cricket and raising his children with the woman who still holds his heart, but does he trust Cricket....not a chance.
Can these two pick up the pieces after so much time, so much pain, so much water under the bridge?
Missing Maverick is full of emotions. Cricket played an integral part in so many peoples lives that this book weaves through a lot of the Ryder family as she makes amends. It's a story about redemption, forgiveness, and second chances.
October 14, 2021
While I enjoyed this story, I was hella annoyed with Cricket. Like really women. Make up your damn mind ☹
Cricket and Maverick were that couple. The couple you knew who would end up being married and living happily ever after with lots of kids. Till the day Cricket told Maverick she needed space and was leaving to go to New York. Maverick was shocked but then he just walked away.
Now its years later. Cricket is back home helping her parents out in their restaurant. And Maverick has two little girls who mean the world to him. And even though he says he hates Cricket there is so many things that needs to be said, so many unanswered questions and the love they have for each other that never went away. But how can Maverick trust that Cricket wont just leave and will Cricket finally tell Maverick why she left all those years ago.
I loved it. Maverick was an amazing dad to his girls. And Cricket was although unsure of what she needed to do a good heroine too. You knew the minute she got back that they never stopped loving each other. And I thought it was so brave of her to come back to a place where you knew people would really not care if you back or what you doing… Lots of angst in this story and so much emotion between these two that you want to sit them down in a room and say freaking talk now, lol… Loved the story, loved the characters. And I so want to read the next story in this series 😊❤❤
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
Cricket and Maverick were that couple. The couple you knew who would end up being married and living happily ever after with lots of kids. Till the day Cricket told Maverick she needed space and was leaving to go to New York. Maverick was shocked but then he just walked away.
Now its years later. Cricket is back home helping her parents out in their restaurant. And Maverick has two little girls who mean the world to him. And even though he says he hates Cricket there is so many things that needs to be said, so many unanswered questions and the love they have for each other that never went away. But how can Maverick trust that Cricket wont just leave and will Cricket finally tell Maverick why she left all those years ago.
I loved it. Maverick was an amazing dad to his girls. And Cricket was although unsure of what she needed to do a good heroine too. You knew the minute she got back that they never stopped loving each other. And I thought it was so brave of her to come back to a place where you knew people would really not care if you back or what you doing… Lots of angst in this story and so much emotion between these two that you want to sit them down in a room and say freaking talk now, lol… Loved the story, loved the characters. And I so want to read the next story in this series 😊❤❤
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
October 11, 2021
What you think you know isn’t always it……
I have been dying for Maverick’s book. I just had to know what went down between him and the one that got away. I was very skeptical about Cricket when I went into this book, I thought for sure I wasn’t going to love her and thought I would just like her after I got to know her. Ya well I was wrong lol… She is the bestest character, she is such a sweet girl and talk about making the ultimate sacrifice for the one you love!!!!!
I’ve always loved Maverick, I knew under all that brooding and quietness there was one heck of a man!!! He is such a great dad so I knew when the right woman came along or back lol he would shine and he pretty much did. I mean don’t get me wrong there were a couple scenes where I wanted to jump in the book and knock him on his a%%. But he got lucky cuz he’d reel it in just in time 😊
I loved everything about this story and this family. At the end of the day, they are just normal people, who have all made mistakes but stick together as a family. There isn’t anyone throwing around millions and fixing all the world’s problems. They are just your average folk working on a ranch and raising their families. I love that!
I am so super excited about Mack Daddy’s book…. I just know it’s gonna have me all over the place, feeling all sorts of emotions!
I have been dying for Maverick’s book. I just had to know what went down between him and the one that got away. I was very skeptical about Cricket when I went into this book, I thought for sure I wasn’t going to love her and thought I would just like her after I got to know her. Ya well I was wrong lol… She is the bestest character, she is such a sweet girl and talk about making the ultimate sacrifice for the one you love!!!!!
I’ve always loved Maverick, I knew under all that brooding and quietness there was one heck of a man!!! He is such a great dad so I knew when the right woman came along or back lol he would shine and he pretty much did. I mean don’t get me wrong there were a couple scenes where I wanted to jump in the book and knock him on his a%%. But he got lucky cuz he’d reel it in just in time 😊
I loved everything about this story and this family. At the end of the day, they are just normal people, who have all made mistakes but stick together as a family. There isn’t anyone throwing around millions and fixing all the world’s problems. They are just your average folk working on a ranch and raising their families. I love that!
I am so super excited about Mack Daddy’s book…. I just know it’s gonna have me all over the place, feeling all sorts of emotions!
October 13, 2021
I had been waiting for this book since I finished the first book in the series! Maverick's story just had my curiosity piqued, and I had to know what happened.
His story was interesting. Crickett's story had a bit more draw though. She kind of overshadowed him that regard. BUT Missing Maverick is THEIR story, not just Maverick's so in the grand scheme of things that doesn't matter.
Seeing how everyone reacted when Crickett returned to town, and how they were all waiting for Maverick's response to that was intriguing. The community knew their past, and how Crickett's decision to leave affected Maverick (and the Ryder family in general). So to see these two soul mates reconnect, to see them rediscover their friendship and their relationship, was really something.
Crickett's past was something else I tell you. Everything that she dealt with after leaving town was just intense. From what she revealed to telling about her marriage (and then divorce), just had my attention fully captured. She drew me in.
A lot happened in Missing Maverick. A LOT. Naturally there's drama. Naturally there are family issues to work through, it's just how it goes. But I was not prepared for
Highly recommend the series. I'm looking forward to the next book.
His story was interesting. Crickett's story had a bit more draw though. She kind of overshadowed him that regard. BUT Missing Maverick is THEIR story, not just Maverick's so in the grand scheme of things that doesn't matter.
Seeing how everyone reacted when Crickett returned to town, and how they were all waiting for Maverick's response to that was intriguing. The community knew their past, and how Crickett's decision to leave affected Maverick (and the Ryder family in general). So to see these two soul mates reconnect, to see them rediscover their friendship and their relationship, was really something.
Crickett's past was something else I tell you. Everything that she dealt with after leaving town was just intense. From what she revealed to telling about her marriage (and then divorce), just had my attention fully captured. She drew me in.
A lot happened in Missing Maverick. A LOT. Naturally there's drama. Naturally there are family issues to work through, it's just how it goes. But I was not prepared for
Highly recommend the series. I'm looking forward to the next book.
July 6, 2024
Wanted to like it more than I actually did.
I enjoyed so much of this book, and yet I kept getting hit with 'dang, why so dumb?' feels. Maverick is OTT in lack of patience and "I will protect you". We get somewhat equal parts of blame between our Cricket and Mav, but honestly I felt Mav should have born the greater remorse.. and there was nothing that acknowledged his great screw up in the mess, not really. I'm angry at blame being thrown at Cricket for not handling his screw up like he would have, had she made the same p*ss poor decision. [Since he never once let Cricket finish a real sentence, I don't know how we get to blame her at all.] Loved the rest of the family, men & women. Yay, for Mack & Molly in particular. Loved the way Cricket's situation was cleared up in one harrowing moment. All the parallels drawn between Cricket & Mav... yikes.
There was a lot to enjoy in Missing Maverick. I wish it hadn't gotten derailed for me so many times. Maverick is definitely flawed, but those Ryder men all love hard. And they sure got lucky when they found their women, who are spectacular. Cricket especially.
A lot happens in this third book. You won't want to skip it if you're reading the series... just too much happens that can't be missed. And lots of readers are loving this one more than I did.
I enjoyed so much of this book, and yet I kept getting hit with 'dang, why so dumb?' feels. Maverick is OTT in lack of patience and "I will protect you". We get somewhat equal parts of blame between our Cricket and Mav, but honestly I felt Mav should have born the greater remorse.. and there was nothing that acknowledged his great screw up in the mess, not really. I'm angry at blame being thrown at Cricket for not handling his screw up like he would have, had she made the same p*ss poor decision. [Since he never once let Cricket finish a real sentence, I don't know how we get to blame her at all.] Loved the rest of the family, men & women. Yay, for Mack & Molly in particular. Loved the way Cricket's situation was cleared up in one harrowing moment. All the parallels drawn between Cricket & Mav... yikes.
There was a lot to enjoy in Missing Maverick. I wish it hadn't gotten derailed for me so many times. Maverick is definitely flawed, but those Ryder men all love hard. And they sure got lucky when they found their women, who are spectacular. Cricket especially.
A lot happens in this third book. You won't want to skip it if you're reading the series... just too much happens that can't be missed. And lots of readers are loving this one more than I did.
October 13, 2021
This is the 3rd book in this impressive series and is Maverick and Cricket’s story. Maverick and Cricket were childhood best friends, then high school sweethearts, until Cricket left town breaking both their hearts in the process. On paper Cricket seems to have the perfect life as a top chef at an award-winning restaurant, and married to a man who is horrific, and now after a messy divorce Cricket comes back to her small hometown, to run her parents’ diner, but not everyone is happy she is back and that includes Maverick and his family. Maverick is content with his life working on his family’s ranch, and he is a single dad to 2-daughters. Maverick is stubborn and it takes some time for him to accept that she is back, but he is protective about her after seeing the marks on her. This is a well written flawless story which is emotionally charged, and with drama, family, guilt, regret, unresolved issues, animosity, and 2nd chances. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
October 14, 2021
4.5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟✨
If your looking for a book with some parent / child trauma, coupled with family drama and a whole lot of relationship stamina then Missing Maverick has got you covered.
It sounds like a lot but everything is so carefully woven together that for the story to flow smoothly to really understand how Mav and Cricket became such a tragically heart breaking tale, the pieces all have to be there.
Things I've really enjoyed with this series is the care taken with the families relationship, the siblings and their dad. What I love even more is that as we get each new book in the series the family expands and no one is left out. Mav's daughters and even their mom's were a huge part of this book and I really appreciated that.
I will definitely recommend this book.
I have voluntarily left this review.
If your looking for a book with some parent / child trauma, coupled with family drama and a whole lot of relationship stamina then Missing Maverick has got you covered.
It sounds like a lot but everything is so carefully woven together that for the story to flow smoothly to really understand how Mav and Cricket became such a tragically heart breaking tale, the pieces all have to be there.
Things I've really enjoyed with this series is the care taken with the families relationship, the siblings and their dad. What I love even more is that as we get each new book in the series the family expands and no one is left out. Mav's daughters and even their mom's were a huge part of this book and I really appreciated that.
I will definitely recommend this book.
I have voluntarily left this review.
October 14, 2021
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, second chances, and heartbreak.
The below are part of this series if you want to read those books(s) first
Hunter (Ryder Ranch, #1)
Wishing for Wilder (Ryder Ranch #2)
This is Cricket and Maverick’s story. Cricket broken Mavericks heart when she left town. She left and thought she had it all until she has to return home broke and divorced. She is helping her parents run the diner. The sparks are still as hot as ever between her and Maverick. Not everyone in the town is happy she is back so she is struggling. These two have to figure out how to let go of the past if they want something to work. But secrets keep getting in the way. Can they really have a future with them both being broken to begin with?
I recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, second chances, and heartbreak.
The below are part of this series if you want to read those books(s) first
Hunter (Ryder Ranch, #1)
Wishing for Wilder (Ryder Ranch #2)
This is Cricket and Maverick’s story. Cricket broken Mavericks heart when she left town. She left and thought she had it all until she has to return home broke and divorced. She is helping her parents run the diner. The sparks are still as hot as ever between her and Maverick. Not everyone in the town is happy she is back so she is struggling. These two have to figure out how to let go of the past if they want something to work. But secrets keep getting in the way. Can they really have a future with them both being broken to begin with?
I recommend this book.
August 10, 2022
This is Maverick and Cricket's book, number three in the Ryder Ranch series, and its awesome. I loved this book, it gripped you from the start and you didn't want to put it down. 5 easy stars
Maverick and Cricket were high school sweethearts, until one day she upped and left without a reason breaking Mav's heart, now 13 years later she is back, she went to New York, she had made a success of her life but missed the small town she grew up in, so she has come home to help her parents run their Diner.
Once Mav knows she is back and sees her, he wants to hate her, wants to stay away from her, he has two daughters to look after and doesn't need her......but can he do that?
This is a rollercoaster ride with ups and downs, they both still loved each other they never stopped but can they put that all behind them and start again?
This series is a must read.
Maverick and Cricket were high school sweethearts, until one day she upped and left without a reason breaking Mav's heart, now 13 years later she is back, she went to New York, she had made a success of her life but missed the small town she grew up in, so she has come home to help her parents run their Diner.
Once Mav knows she is back and sees her, he wants to hate her, wants to stay away from her, he has two daughters to look after and doesn't need her......but can he do that?
This is a rollercoaster ride with ups and downs, they both still loved each other they never stopped but can they put that all behind them and start again?
This series is a must read.
October 7, 2021
UGH guys, this one has ALLLLL the feels! Mav and Cricket had a thing when they were kids, now she's back but a LOT of water passed under the bridge, there's no way they can go back, but who is to say they'd even want to? I loved this one because I love flawed characters, they feel more real to me, and let me tell you, Crickets got some flaws! I was so mad at her because she compounded on her mistakes rather than learning from them. When she finally pulls her head out, she well and truly sees what's in front of her is whats important. Their chemistry was amazing, they found the right combo of love and love to hate that sets off smoke alarms. And I love what a united front Mav's family puts up to protect one of their own. A great read and I'm excited we're getting Macks story next!
October 11, 2021
3.5 stars! I love second chances! I enjoyed this book. But honestly the back and forth between Maverick and Cricket and the mind games knocked it down half a star for me. But still I liked it a lot. I thought the reason for Cricket leaving was interesting. I really thought I had guessed it but I truly had no idea and I loved that it wasn’t obvious. The dads in this book have really stepped up to cover for moms that just aren’t there! And while I wish the moms were better, I love the men who fill in for both parents. Maverick is an awesome daddy and a great guy all around. You can’t help but fall in love with him. So why in the world did Cricket leave him!? We find out eventually! And it’s worth the read to find out!
~Alexis💜
~Alexis💜
October 13, 2021
3.5 stars! I love second chances! I enjoyed this book. But honestly the back and forth between Maverick and Cricket and the mind games knocked it down half a star for me. But still I liked it a lot. I thought the reason for Cricket leaving was interesting. I really thought I had guessed it but I truly had no idea and I loved that it wasn’t obvious. The dads in this book have really stepped up to cover for moms that just aren’t there! And while I wish the moms were better, I love the men who fill in for both parents. Maverick is an awesome daddy and a great guy all around. You can’t help but fall in love with him. So why in the world did Cricket leave him!? We find out eventually! And it’s worth the read to find out!
October 14, 2021
4 Stars!
Anna Brooks is back with her emotional, angsty, steamy Ryder Ranch series and y'all whoa. What a book. I knew this was gonna be a doozy based on several things but still, this was all kinds of unexpected in a whole lot of ways and moments.
Missing Maverick is the third standalone in this series, giving us Cricket and Maverick's story and what an angsty, all in my heart little beauty this was. A second chance romance with a slow burn that'll pull you through the ups and the downs.. the whole book. I devoured this baby in one sitting and what a journey these two gave me.
This series has been absolutely fantastic and isn't talked about enough.
I totally recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Anna Brooks is back with her emotional, angsty, steamy Ryder Ranch series and y'all whoa. What a book. I knew this was gonna be a doozy based on several things but still, this was all kinds of unexpected in a whole lot of ways and moments.
Missing Maverick is the third standalone in this series, giving us Cricket and Maverick's story and what an angsty, all in my heart little beauty this was. A second chance romance with a slow burn that'll pull you through the ups and the downs.. the whole book. I devoured this baby in one sitting and what a journey these two gave me.
This series has been absolutely fantastic and isn't talked about enough.
I totally recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
October 14, 2021
Anna Brooks keeps bringing it on with these Ryder brothers! Missing Maverick takes us on an emotional rollercoaster with Maverick and Cricket's story. I'm always a sucker for books where the hero has kids. There is nothing hotter than a dad, and especially a broody protective dad like Maverick. For me the win was really with Cricket. I felt like her story was told at the perfect pace. When we finally find out what really happened....omg heat break city. While I really loved Cricket, there were a few times that I really disliked Maverick. Thankfully, he pulls it together and we get to see what's really hiding beneath the rough exterior. Missing Maverick wasn't my favorite of the series, but it was a beautiful story.
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