I was interested in this brother's story, and I was not disappointed. I actually enjoyed the story parts. The beginning of the book was really heartbreaking, and Riley had more heartbreak to deal with throughout the story, which made me shed some tears. I also really enjoyed seeing Maverick open up and he revealed some things that made me want to hug him. However, I found myself fast forwarding through many of the sex scenes, as they were sometimes a little too drawn out and a few were not to my taste.
I'm a height-fearing, risk-averse, cold-intolerant, humidity-hating, scaredy-cat and I have practically nothing in common with the characters in Maverick. I kind of knew this going in, but I like to observe how the other half live. Well, I observed...and I'm happy staying an observer. I just can't picture myself going into situations daily and risking my life. In some of those cases, they're risking their lives for idiots too. I'm just not that nice a person. But, I thank goodness that there are people out there doing it and I appreciate them taking risks to save lives.
Both Mav and Riley have faced heartache and in some ways, they have never dealt with it or got over it. Then again, how do you get over losing someone you love?
This is an office romance of a different kind. Their jobs are intense and they need to focus completely on the people they're saving and the environment they're navigating. One wrong step could take you over the edge. A slight hesitation could cost someone their life. It's not the right environment to not have your head in the game. Both Mav and Riley KNOW it's against the rules but decide to do it anyway. Their attraction to each other is overwhelming. It's like they were meant for each other. If only they didn't have to make a choice of job...or...relationship.
Neither Mav or Riley has been in serious relationships and have always put their work first. Being extremely good looking makes them both appealing to the opposite sex and they have no problems finding hook-ups. Mav's reputation precedes him and, unfortunately, Riley makes a monumental stuff up (picking a hook-up) the day before she is set to start her new job. They're both going to have to get over some obstacles before they can find their HEA.
I like this series and I like the characters. In Maverick, while I liked both Mav and Riley, I found it hard to relate to them. I still managed to enjoy the story, found the sexy times HOT and finished with a big smile on my face.