The Maverick

De: Jennifer Millikin

Narrado por: Sarah Elizabeth Wallis, Brenden Davis

From best-selling author Jennifer Millikin comes a heart-warming story about a single-father trying to start over, and the woman he falls for along the way.

I know you’ve heard about me.

The middle Hayden brother, the one whose wife ran off.

I’m not the short-tempered new owner of the Hayden Cattle Company, like my big brother. I’m not the wild stallion with a mystery ax to grind, like my little brother.

I’m Warner Hayden. Single-father, second-in-command of my family’s ranching dynasty, and my steady, secure world is about to get rocked by America’s sweetheart.

I’d heard Tenley Roberts was coming to our small town to film her latest movie, I just didn't think she’d be driving a 1976 Bronco. So no, I didn't know the identity of the beautiful stranger I helped on the side of the road, but I figured it out a few days later. And I haven't been the same since.

Tenley is unexpectedly funny, and complicated. I’m recently divorced, fearful of the way she makes my heart beat double-time, and gun-shy.

Despite all this, we’re too wrapped up in each other to care.

But then, things with Tenley take an unforeseen turn, and everyone assumes I’ll take my licks the way I always have.

Not this time.

Maybe I am the nice, dependable brother.

But I’m also a Hayden, born and bred.

And this bull has horns.

Author's Note: The Hayden Family series is standalone, but for maximum enjoyment, it is recommended to listen to them in order.

©2021 Jennifer Millikin (P)2023 Jennifer Millikin

the realistic story of how life can be messy a lot of the time but it's still okay

I'm not one for romance novels but I genuinely enjoyed listening to this one.

Single dad cowboy? Yes please!

This was such an incredibly sweet story and I absolutely fell in love with Warner and Tinley! I loved seeing an imperfect person doing his best to raise two kids AND working towards coparenting with his ex in a healthy manner. Beautifully written and Finley is such a wonderful heroine that you absolutely want to cheer for!

Warner & Tenley

I liked the book, and I did like them as a couple. But it was described as a single dad trope and I really wanted more scenes with the kids. I was hoping to see Tenley bond with them more, and we only really got one moment of that.

I also didn't love the fact that when everything went down, Warner went straight to his ex-wife instead of even checking in on how Tenley was feeling. That didn't sit well with me.

And the ending felt kind of rushed.

Slight spoiler below.
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It bothered me that he didn't go after her until he thought she might be pregnant, it made the whole resolution feel less genuine.

Hello single daddy cowboy!

Oh I really enjoyed Warner and Tenley! I’m a sucker for that small town cowboy and single dad with a city girl. Their story is funny, heartfelt with real relationship issues. I love that while this still felt like fiction it bled into reality with him not wanting to initially get remarried or have more kids. It was honest and the healing process was done so well. I can’t wait for Wyatt’s story! I’m so intrigued with all the mystery surrounding him. Also these first two books have spice, but it is light, and I feel have more focus on the connection between the characters other than purely physical. I am finding that I really like that. It’s like a couple of scenes that aren’t over done or overtly long. Then some scenes that are insinuated with fade to black. I actually like that balance over both so the spice doesn’t take over as the main focus and I think it works well in these stories.

Read: Audible 🎧
MMC: Warner Hayden
FMC: Tenley Roberts
Spice: 2🌶️
Tropes: Small Town, Cowboy/Movie Star, Forced Proximity

In love!!

Excellent narration. Beautiful story! There’s a third act breakup but not for something idiotic like a miscommunication. No. It’s because of true circumstances and growing up to do. It was perfect! I’m in love with the MMC and so far he’s my favorite!! Swoon!