Coming Home to Maverick

by Sophia Summers

Bailey is back. Maverick thought he was over her. But neither can deny the feelings that will always be there.

Bailey has made mistakes, so many she doesn't think she'll really ever forgive herself. But her daughter deserves the kind of life Bailey had growing up. When she shows up on her parents' doorstep back to her hometown, the one person she isn't ready to see is Maverick. But will she ever be able to face him?

The minute Maverick hears Bailey is back, he knows his heart still belongs to her. But what kind of man trusts a woman who left him at the altar? As he grapples with a new daughter that he can't help but wish was his, all the responsibilities of running his family's ranch, and the hurt he feels about Bailey's betrayal, he finds new love and hope not only with her but with God.

As soon as God is a part of the equation, the sweetness they find is better than they ever had. Just maybe this second chance around is God's gift of happiness to them both.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Christian, Westerns, Fiction, Contemporary Romance

217 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 2, 2020

About the author

Sophia Summers is an award winning author who just wants to relax a little and enjoy a great beach read. She lives in a quiet southern town brimming with an extra dose of hospitality and a whole lot of charm.

She writes historical romance under a different name. The Billionaire Royals is her first contemporary romance series.

Reviews

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a feel-good second chance romance set in small-town Texas. There are strong themes of homecoming and forgiveness as Bailey reconnects with the family and friends she left behind with no word or explanation. While it's understandable that she had wanted to chase her dreams of being a singer, I didn't get why she ghosted people she had such good and strong relationships with. She does an awful good job of self-flagellation for her bad choices now that she's back home, and her parents and Maverick are both encouraging of her turning things over to God for healing. The characters seem almost too good to be true, and the slower pace of the story matches the setting, making it a relaxing read.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

[Aimee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coming Home to Maverick is a story of forgiveness and redemption. It is a story that will tug on your heart because who hasn't made mistakes, sometimes big ones, that require the forgiveness of others and also the hard task of forgiving yourself?

Bailey left her man at the alter without a word. She ran off with a different man who promised her stars and she had his child. Now she is back in a small town where everyone knows her and knows her mistakes. That's a pretty big challenge to overcome. I really love how the author painted the town in good light, that the people there could accept Bailey back with open arms and love, especially Maverick's family. Maverick hears Bailey is back and his family asks how he wants to treat her. Should they ignore her? Shun her? Maverick tells them to be kind to her. And I know this is just a fiction book, but that sort of sentiment restored a bit of hope in humanity for me. I really want to believe that people are good enough to do this and that I am too.

Maverick is something else. If you make a mistake, he's the guy you want forgiving you! It was almost too easy for him but I'm willing to overlook this because I really want there to be people like this out there in the world. Maverick is kind. He is patient. He is loyal. He works hard and he is all things Texas cowboy. Yeah. He's good.

I enjoyed this book. It was a sweet story of love and forgiveness and it felt good around my heart. Maverick has a whole family of boys so here's to hoping we get a story for each brother.

This book is just $.99 on Kindle right now and it is also on Kindle Unlimited.

Content: mention of intimate relations outside of marriage with no details, Christian elements including prayer, forgiveness.

- I bought my own copy of this book.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this one! The little bit of escape it gave me to a small Texas town was one of my favorite things about it. And that small Texas town was one of the hardest things for main character, Bailey.

Bailey knows she’s made some huge mistakes. And the first one was standing Maverick up at the church on their wedding day. It seemed as though Bailey felt as though all eyes were on her when she came home. And maybe they were. It’s always hard for people to allow others to change. But this book helps show that change really is possible, as well as forgiveness. I loved how Bailey learned that lesson.

But Bailey wasn’t the only one that needed a lesson. Maverick also needed to learn about forgiveness. But he had a great teacher, in his mama. I loved her character in this book. In fact, Maverick’s whole family was great! I hope we get to see them again later!

And Bailey’s daughter, Gracie, steals the show in so many scenes of this book. How can you not love that little girl?

I’m really hoping for more books just like this one. It’s a great mix of romance and allowing God to work in your life.

I was sent an e-copy of Coming Home to Maverick as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Emily Flynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't always read contemporary Christian Westerns, but when I do, I want them like this. I adored this book. It pulled me in and didn't let go.

I was happy with the characters and development. I want to see more books with this family. I loved Maverick and Bailey. They were real to me with real problems and dreams.

Let's face it, this book made me want to live on a ranch.

I loved the message of redemption and forgiveness.

I received an eARC from the author and this is my own review, simple though it is.

[Mara · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's hard to go home again when you feel you've failed or you didn't leave on the best of terms. Bailey Hempstead's dealing with both of those, because six years ago she literally left her fiance Maverick at the altar, never contacted him and now has returned with a 5 year old daughter (who's adorable). What makes it feel harder to return and try to make amends is that Willow Creek is a small town, so within a couple of days everyone knows she's back.

Maverick Dawson's feeling the burden of running Dawson ranch. His brothers help out when they're not on the rodeo circuit, but not him. If he leaves to do a rodeo circuit, which he finally admits he truly misses, who's going to make sure the ranch is taken care of? Then he sees Bailey while he's out riding his property, and all his feelings for her come flooding back. He can't trust her with his heart again. Can he?

This is a wonderful story of redemption and not only receiving forgiveness from others, but also forgiving yourself. Bailey and Maverick's families were wonderful examples of not holding someone's past against them as they welcomed Bailey and her adorable daughter Gracie back into their lives. Bailey feels like a failure and is ashamed of how she left. Her parents are wonderful and don't push for the answers to their questions as soon as she returns. Maverick's mother is a great example to her sons, especially Maverick, on forgiveness. I liked how God was a natural part of Bailey and Maverick's story.

It seems Bailey and Maverick needed those years apart to grow up and learn that your partner may also have dreams, and you may need to quiet the call of your dreams in order to be able to hear what theirs are. I loved that Bailey and Maverick decided together what they wanted to do. I loved the ending. There were so many great characters in this book--I wouldn't mind stories for all of Maverick's brothers.

I received a complimentary copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions expressed in my review are my own.

[Shauna Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

The characters and struggles in this book are so real and compelling. They have struggles you will relate to. Dreams that they have to choose between. Mistakes that haunt them and fill their nights. Happiness and joy in life’s little and big pleasures. Bailey has always wanted to sing professionally and always wanted to marry Maverick but on her wedding day she feels she must choose between the two. So, she runs leaving Maverick waiting at the alter. Now over five years later she returns home a single mom with a daughter and broken dreams. Maverick has put his dreams behind him with being left at the alter and then the death of his father. His life is keeping the family ranch going. He doesn’t see the need for more in his life. What will happen when they meet again and have to decide what dreams are worth fighting for and what dreams are really only hollow wishes. An excellent book with dynamic situations and characters. I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Marilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a good cowboy story! Maverick and Bailey were childhood sweethearts until she skips town without a word of explanation. Five years later, she returns home but they have both grown and changed and can't just go back to the way they were before.

This was a sweet romance of two people who have to learn to trust, forgive, and make sacrifices in order to be together. I will admit that Maverick was a lot more forgiving than I would have been in the situation! I enjoyed the Christian references to prayer, forgiveness, God's love, etc. They added to the story but were not overly done or preachy in any way.

This was a quick, easy read but oh, so enjoyable! I am really hoping we get more books in the series about Maverick's brothers!

I received a complimentary copy but my opinions are my own.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bailey and Maverick's chemistry is still strong after all their years apart. Their relationship is a sweet one, but has a lot of things to overcome. It was mostly fun, but sometimes very frustrating to watch. Luckily there was the cute Gracie Faith and the Dawson family to help lighten things up and knock some sense into people. I'm excited for this series and to read the other Dawson brothers stories.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I reading Bailey and Maverick's story. I really liked the easy relationship they feel back into once Bailey returns. I like how you get glimpses of their past in the activites they do together. I love the small town feel of forgiveness and support. It felt like going home again. Great story. I hope the brothers each get a book too!

[Lorieah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gotta love a mama that knows how to raise such good men!

A great story of love and forgiveness. Deciding not to live with What ifs, Bailey took off to follow her dreams. On her wedding day. But it takes courage to face your mistakes — and the people you left behind. Luckily, Maverick's family, and her own, had enough love to forgive and move on.

Hope to see more of the Dawson brothers!

I received a free copy, and this is my honest opinion.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bailey carried a lot of remorse and regret around in this book. It was interesting to read how exactly everything came about to send her running for Nashville six years earlier. She was definitely a very immature character when she left, leaving so many people that she loved and who loved her.

Maverick was such a forgiving man. The way he was able to forgive was impressive, although he did have some setbacks, here and there. He, his family, and Bailey’s family provided a loving example of forgiveness for Bailey and welcoming arms for her and her daughter. It was easy to feel the connection and chemistry between these two main characters and it was great to see their love for each other rekindle.

I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to more stories in this series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Suzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coming Home to Maverick is a second chance romance which, in ways, parallel’s the story of the prodigal son (or in this case, daughter).

Bailey and Maverick have a lot unresolved between them but that doesn’t diminish the connection that still lies between them after six years apart. Add in the Dawson brothers and their Mama, the rodeo events, a struggling ranch, and a precocious little girl who loves well, and Sophia Summers gives readers a sweet story of love, forgiveness, and discovering what’s important in life.

With Maverick's three brothers unattached, I’m already looking forward to spending more time with this close-knit family of gentlemen cowboys and catching up with everyone in future books.



Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Priscila · Rating 3 out of 5]

Coming Home to Maverick was an interesting read. I picked it up because the blurb got my attention, and I really wanted to know how this second chance romance was going to play out.

Now, while I loved the setting (the ranch, the horses, their participation in rodeos and state fairs), it took me some time to connect with Bailey and Maverick, but especially the second, since reading about his emotions could end up in what felt like whiplash at times (there were a couple of instances where it felt he could go from resentment to acceptance and/or forgiveness in 3.5). Also, their getting back together as well as their admitting feelings for each other felt a bit too fast for me, especially when not everything was completely resolved in their lives, or the foundation for mutual trust did not feel as strong as it should be for a relationship.

Still, the writing was good enough that it kept me reading till the end, wanting to find out how it was all gonna play out, and both her need to repent and come back to Christ, as well as forgiveness not being earned but freely given were handled well.

As for content, it's clean in that there's no language, there's a thought or two on violence but it's never acted out, and the kisses are (really) passionate but hands never wander or anything of the sort. However, there's some innuendo/a comment appreciating a girl in tight jeans. ~3.5 stars

[Aminata Coote · Rating 3 out of 5]

Coming Home to Maverick had great potential. The characters were awesome and the writing style was easy to read and made you want to move to Willow Creek to experience the sense of community that was so strong there.

I understood why Bailey felt she had to leave--sometimes you have to walk away to fully appreciate what you left behind. But I just couldn't buy how quickly she was back in everyone's good graces.

It was like one day she was showed up with another man's child and the next they were visiting old haunts and planning a future together. She kept her secrets hidden even though that was exactly what had eroded her relationship with Maverick the last time. Yet, she was jealous and possessive and expected him to kowtow to her as if she had never left him behind.

I did enjoy the theme of God's forgiveness that was woven throughout the book. You may feel like the biggest prodigal child but God is waiting for you with open arms. Maybe His love for us is a lot like the love the people of Willow Creek had for Bailey--no recriminations, just pure love, and acceptance.

Coming Home to Maverick is the first book in a series about the Dawson brothers. I received an advanced reader's copy from the author as part of a Just Read Tours publicity tour; a positive review was not required.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coming Home to Maverick was a super heartfelt Christian contemporary romance. I love the way the author told Bailey and Maverick's story using Christian themes which to me made their story so much more believable as well as added an even deeper layer to their romance.
Bailey left Maverick at the alter and showing up years later wasn't easy for either of them. Bailey's life was messy and in a lot of ways it was that messiness that made it feel so true to real life and made her so much more than just a character. What made the whole second chance romance work to me was the fact that we see as a reader how Maverick's belief in God and forgiveness allow him to let go of his anger and allow their relationship to heal. It was very well done and I feel good for having read this story. Perfect for a Sunday afternoon.
The chemistry between Bailey and Maverick was shooting sparks off the pages all while being wholesome. The secondary characters were endearing and I can only hope that we get the other Dawson brothers’ stories because I can tell they are going to be swoon worthy cowboys.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. I am choosing to leave an honest review of my own accord.

[Ashlee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second chance romance? Check. Adorable cowboy/bull rider male lead? Check. An adorable book that lovers of contemporary romance, especially featuring cowboys, will enjoy? Double and triple check. Coming Home to Maverick was a sweet and clean romance that hit some components like a nail on the head. I'm a sucker for cowboys and Maverick fit the bill. I'm basically in love with that name now.

There were times Maverick felt so much more forgiving than I could imagine being in his shoes. But I assume that was the point since he was mirroring God's forgiveness of us. That's not to say he didn't struggle though. Being that he is human and not God, there were definitely moments that he felt his weakness of faith towards Bailey sticking around. The whole book I found myself yelling internally at Bailey to not break his heart again. A few moments of indecision on her part that made me wonder. Then he pulls a similar move that adds more tension. As usual, lack of communication causes so many issues. But Bailey's display of strength when she could have easily fallen apart and Maverick's love for a little girl that wasn't even his just won me over.

I saw at the end of the book that we're getting more Dawson brothers in future books and I definitely intend on reading some more.

[Rachel DeVaughn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this christian cowboy story! I finished it in one day because I enjoyed the characters and story line.

I loved Maverick's strong and caring character and his interactions at the ranch and with his family. His brother's and ranch rodeo life were really fun to read about.

I also enjoyed Bailey's character but I often felt annoyed with her because of her poor choices due to pride, insecurity and immaturity. I grew to like her more by the end of the story but I definitely felt Maverick could have done better with a more mature woman.

Clean christian fiction but lots of steamy kiss scenes and implied sexual relations.

I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.

[Sheila Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful start to a new series by Sophia Summers.
Bailey left Maverick at the altar (literally) 6 years ago when she fled to Nashville in hopes of becoming a star. What she found was a cheating man who kicked her out when he found she was pregnant. With a five year old daughter in tow, Bailey has returned home, a broken woman with no dreams except to give her daughter the home life little Gracie deserves. Coming home, she must face the people she hurt most.
Maverick has tried to move on. He is now the head of the Dawson family and responsible for the family ranch. Seeing Bailey again has stirred up all the old emotions: anger, hurt and bewilderment.
Can Bailey learn to forgive herself for the poor choices she made? Can Maverick forgive Bailey? Does he even want to?
Sophia Summers has written a beautiful story about love, betrayal and forgiveness. She makes a point of including the need for reliance on our heavenly Father during our darkest days and rejoicing when we find our way again. While a heavier Christian message is included in this book, I did not find it too preachy. Excellent writing, wonderful characters and a sweet little girl make this novel a feel-good read!

[Terry Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW Coming Home to Maverick has got to be one of the best books that I have ever read. When a book makes me that mad at one point and then so happy in another you know it is good. This is my first book by this author and I can tell you it will not be my last. She hit this one out of the park. Absolutely fantastic. The characters were so darn loveable, well that is except one. I won't mention the persons name. I would love to read this book again. I wanted to find out what happens next but didn't want the book to end. I could not put this book down. I am looking forward to reading more books from Sophia Summers.
“I received ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.”

[Kaytlen Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophia Summers broke up her normal genre to create this great Christian romance. A cowboy with a big heart and a singer who returns home after disappearing at the altar this love story teaches forgiveness, redemption, and working through the hard times. I loved this reminder that hard times come and with help from a higher power, love and commitment can survive and thrive despite mistakes. While both of these characters have their moments where I wanted to shake some sense into them, they are relatable. Each of us has the fight or flight reflex- not just in survival but in love too. While the characters take that reflex a little to the extreme, they demonstrate how to move past it too.

So with some drama, Christian themes, and a feel-good romance story, I definitely enjoyed this one.

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophia Summers always gives us interesting, thought provoking story lines and well-developed characters. Bailey and Maverick had been scheduled to marry 6 years previously, then she disappeared leaving him standing at the altar. Now she has returned with a 5-year-old daughter. Can he forgive her? His love for her isn’t in question, but forgiveness is harder. I truly love how Maverick and his mother both use the Bible as their guide and are very familiar with it. I really dare you to not fall in love with Gracie Faith. Their journey back to happily ever after is worth reading.

[Cassie Shiels · Rating 5 out of 5]

SOOOOO Cute! I absolutely loved this book. I loved the coyboy, rodeo aspect of it. I loved their romance. I loved little Gracie. It was one of those books where I wanted to just keep reading even if it was after midnight. I loved the christen aspect of it about keeping God in your life, praying to him and having him on your side even if you made some big mistakes. I loved how it mixed the childhood sweet hearts and second chance romance tropes. I loved all of the sweet relationships in this book and I honestly can't wait to read another one! I

[zen_s · Rating 1 out of 5]

[1.25 star] bleh~~ book was boring as hell.

firstly, i don't understand how can the characters reconnect so fast seeing that the heroine left the hero at the altar. the heroine just explained why she left and next thing is they arranging a date. like huh?? completely unrealistic to be honest.

secondly, the question and answer with the characters themselves is annoying as shit. i really hate it when author wrote like this.

lastly, i'm a free-thinker so i hate any talk about religion in any book i read (it's totally a me problem so apologies to people who are religious).

not reading any other books from this author anymore, writing style not my type.

[Sherry Ferguson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coming Home to Maverick is an absolutely amazing book, so many emotions. Such a fantastic story and wonderful characters. I did not want to put this book down. Hands down one of the best books I've read. Sophia Summers is a very talented author and I highly recommend this book.
I received ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bailey and Maverick have definitely had some troubles. Sophia Summers kept me glued to the story as they learned to forgive themselves and others, and as they figured out what they truly wanted in life. Gracie adds so much light and life to Coming Home to Maverick.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up

[noorthebookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: Contemporary Western Christian Second Chance Romance
__________
🤠 Cowboy Inspired Romance series Book 1
_________

_________

📚 COMING HOME TO MAVERICK:


Penned down bEaUtiFuLly by author Sophia Summers & released by Kings Row Press on 2nd June 2020.

1st book in the series of Cowboy Inspired Romance, it is 242 pages of pure bliss!
_________

🔖 It talks of TRUE LoVe, MAVERICK- a perfect gentleman, BAILEY- the girl who left him at the altar for her mirage of dreams.
There's UNCONDITIONAL FAMILY LOVE & SUPPORT and focus on DUTY & RESPONSIBILITIES towards one clan too, in the story.

There are ofcourse HORSES 🐎too!

And then there is FAITH & the choice to give a 2ND CHANCE!

There is ofcourse ROMANCE (CLEAN) & a beautiful one.
_________

Why did Bailey leave a perfect life❓
Why does she come back after so many years, with a daughter❓
What all turmoil does she go through❓
Will her family accept her back❓
Will she be able to get love back in her life❓
_________

Read The Book to get ANSWERS to all these questions
_________

🌻
Bailey is back. Maverick thought he was over her. But neither can deny the feelings that will always be there.

Bailey has made mistakes, so many she doesn't think she'll really ever forgive herself. But her daughter deserves the kind of life Bailey had growing up. When she shows up on her parents' doorstep back to her hometown, the one person she isn't ready to see is Maverick. But will she ever be able to face him?

The minute Maverick hears Bailey is back, he knows his heart still belongs to her. But what kind of man trusts a woman who left him at the altar? As he grapples with a new daughter that he can't help but wish was his, all the responsibilities of running his family's ranch, and the hurt he feels about Bailey's betrayal, he finds new love and hope not only with her but with God.

As soon as God is a part of the equation, the sweetness they find is better than they ever had. Just maybe this second chance around is God's gift of happiness to them both.

_________

❓❓❓❓❓❓
Do you believe in True Love or 2nd Chances❓

How essential is God in your relationships ❓

Do you like clean romance novels❓

________

Loved it! Amazingly penned down!

The story is Full Of LOVE & HOPE and makes one's belief in True Love stronger.
________

💞 More than tHe EnD, it's the journey through the read, that will tug at ur hEaRtStRiNgS!

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Maverick and Bailey's story. I really wanted to knock some sense into both of them; more Bailey than Maverick. It took Bailey five years to figure some things out, and it took Maverick one time seeing her to take up where they left off. His family was very accepting of her coming back into their lives after what she did, and no one seemed to care about the pain and suffering she caused when she left. No one asked for an apology, she really didn't even offer anyone one, and she wondered why Maverick couldn't seem to let her in. That was easy, he couldn't figure her out with all of the mixed signals she was sending! They finally get things worked out, though, and she finally realizes that God can take the broken things and make them even better. There's a little more description with the kissing and things than I like to read in books, so I lowered my rating a bit for that. Otherwise, a really good read, and the faith element is strong, which I really like.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.

[Ebosereme Nwamu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Coming Home To Maverick was a beautiful story filled with love, sacrifice, heart breaks, forgiveness and reconciliation. I love how the characters were quick to forgive, let go and help. They beautifully illustrated that those who have been forgiven much should forgive too. The characters were relatable. Little Miss Graceie was my favorite character; she brought so much joy to the story.
The setting of the story was so appealing.

I recommend this to anyone who loves a good love story.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who knew that your first love might be your forever love? Forgiveness, lost love, love found again, redemption, and more are central themes in this fun novel.

I love how the best theme is that with God things get better. Renewing our love with Him will bring new love into our lives. Maverick has a lot to be hurt about when it comes to Bailey. The child that could have been his and his marriage for starters. Bailey left him at the altar and he can’t help but think of all the time that has been lost.

I loved the characters in this novel and how they struggled with real feelings. The characters draw you in and you feel like they’re real. Not just real in their story but real in life. I mean really you’re just looking around to see Maverick one day. I’ve grown up and still live in a rural area with lots of small towns so I know all too well what Bailey is dealing with coming home with her mistakes on display.

This is a book I recommend. Definitely grab a copy today and give it a read.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.