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Breaking Ruby
Ruby Holloway’s life just took a tragic, unexpected turn, and she’s left picking up the pieces and facing an unfamiliar future. In the aftermath of loss, the one thing Ruby has realised, is that she stopped dreaming somewhere in her teens and grew old before her time, and maybe, it’s time to change that. Maybe she owes it to the little girl who longed for adventures, fun and passion; to try something new and dare to live a little bigger and a little wilder.
Harvey Beckworth could ride before he could walk. Probably. At just twenty-four, he took over his parents’ competition livery yard and two years on, he is caught between his personal ambitions and the heavy expectations placed on him by his father. He longs to shake things up in the equestrian world, but traditions are hard to break, especially when money and prestige are involved. When he finds a stranger trespassing in the yard, it feels like the perfect opportunity to lead by example and do things differently. But the way forward involves bending a lot of rules, and as his heart is on the line, breaking the ultimate rule could cost him everything he’s ever worked for.
Harvey Beckworth could ride before he could walk. Probably. At just twenty-four, he took over his parents’ competition livery yard and two years on, he is caught between his personal ambitions and the heavy expectations placed on him by his father. He longs to shake things up in the equestrian world, but traditions are hard to break, especially when money and prestige are involved. When he finds a stranger trespassing in the yard, it feels like the perfect opportunity to lead by example and do things differently. But the way forward involves bending a lot of rules, and as his heart is on the line, breaking the ultimate rule could cost him everything he’s ever worked for.
- GenresRomance
259 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2025
2 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 20, 2025
Annabella, I just want to give you a massive thank you for letting me be a part of your ARC team. I haven’t had the best week so far, and diving into this story was exactly what I needed. I couldn’t put it down — and it truly put a smile on my face, so thank you again. ❤️
I absolutely loved this book. My only complaint? I wish it could have been longer (purely selfish reasons — I just didn’t want to leave the characters yet!).
Our FMC, Ruby , is someone who grew up way before her time. As someone of a similar age, I’ll admit I was a little jealous of everything she’s been able to accomplish in such a short span. After experiencing one of the toughest events of her life, she chooses to follow her dream of becoming a show jumper.
Enter Harvey— rich boy, equestrian yard manager, riding instructor. The first time he sees her, he tells her to get off his yard… but from there, their story slowly blossoms across the pages.
This is a beautiful story about finding your way again after the unimaginable happens, and about how healing can come from unexpected places — in this case, horses, love, and second chances. I especially loved the little nod to Spirit at the end — such a lovely touch.
Now, you don’t need to be a horse expert to read this book, but it definitely helps to have an understanding (or at least a love) of horses to fully appreciate it.
Overall? A heartfelt, healing romance that balances resilience, love, and the joy of chasing dreams. 4 stars — and highly recommend!
I absolutely loved this book. My only complaint? I wish it could have been longer (purely selfish reasons — I just didn’t want to leave the characters yet!).
Our FMC, Ruby , is someone who grew up way before her time. As someone of a similar age, I’ll admit I was a little jealous of everything she’s been able to accomplish in such a short span. After experiencing one of the toughest events of her life, she chooses to follow her dream of becoming a show jumper.
Enter Harvey— rich boy, equestrian yard manager, riding instructor. The first time he sees her, he tells her to get off his yard… but from there, their story slowly blossoms across the pages.
This is a beautiful story about finding your way again after the unimaginable happens, and about how healing can come from unexpected places — in this case, horses, love, and second chances. I especially loved the little nod to Spirit at the end — such a lovely touch.
Now, you don’t need to be a horse expert to read this book, but it definitely helps to have an understanding (or at least a love) of horses to fully appreciate it.
Overall? A heartfelt, healing romance that balances resilience, love, and the joy of chasing dreams. 4 stars — and highly recommend!
September 14, 2025
What a lovely romance from Annabella Lowe; I will definitely be coming back for more.
Breaking Ruby is a beautiful story about grief, healing and hope. Ruby and Harvey make for lovely narrators and love interests. Their snappy dialogue and immersive narration made this book a true treat, and I deeply enjoyed the uniqueness of each character voice, no matter how big or small their role.
The romance is sweeping, beautiful and has just the right amount of tension and high stakes, as well as the perfect reward for readers, who are no doubt universally shipping these two!
But there were also several other aspects of this book that deserve a ton of praise; starting with the strong platonic bonds between Ruby and Maddie and Harvey and Jess, the different family dynamics and Ruby’s journey of grief, and ending with the immersive nature of the stable and riding scene setting. I also truly enjoyed getting to know the character of Molly better; she was such a brilliant part of the book and I loved her story arc.
5 stars on every point. This book ticked every box a romance should have. Highly recommend!
Breaking Ruby is a beautiful story about grief, healing and hope. Ruby and Harvey make for lovely narrators and love interests. Their snappy dialogue and immersive narration made this book a true treat, and I deeply enjoyed the uniqueness of each character voice, no matter how big or small their role.
The romance is sweeping, beautiful and has just the right amount of tension and high stakes, as well as the perfect reward for readers, who are no doubt universally shipping these two!
But there were also several other aspects of this book that deserve a ton of praise; starting with the strong platonic bonds between Ruby and Maddie and Harvey and Jess, the different family dynamics and Ruby’s journey of grief, and ending with the immersive nature of the stable and riding scene setting. I also truly enjoyed getting to know the character of Molly better; she was such a brilliant part of the book and I loved her story arc.
5 stars on every point. This book ticked every box a romance should have. Highly recommend!
August 21, 2025
Breaking Ruby is a beautiful story of our FMC, Ruby, finding her way again after the unexpected loss of her mother. Trying to be brave while grieving and try something that had always been a dream of hers as a young girl, she decides to take horse riding lessons. This is where we meet Harvey, the yard manager and equestrian posh boy who doesn’t make the best first impression.
I loved their budding romance and how it blossomed during the book. I loved their banter and how responsive Harvey was to Ruby’s needs, particularly through her grieving.
I think Annabelle did an excellent job of talking about grief and those emotions and I honestly felt tearful at points during the story.
I would say you’d benefit from knowing a little about horses for reading it, however, I know literally nothing and still loved it.
I would definitely recommend.
Thank you to Annabelle for letting me part of her ARC team for this book 💛
I loved their budding romance and how it blossomed during the book. I loved their banter and how responsive Harvey was to Ruby’s needs, particularly through her grieving.
I think Annabelle did an excellent job of talking about grief and those emotions and I honestly felt tearful at points during the story.
I would say you’d benefit from knowing a little about horses for reading it, however, I know literally nothing and still loved it.
I would definitely recommend.
Thank you to Annabelle for letting me part of her ARC team for this book 💛
August 21, 2025
“Woman, you’re driving me feral. Now get the fuck out of my arena before I do something stupid and lose my job.”
One of the easiest 5 star reads I've read this year. It's not very often I open a book and know instantly that I'm going to love it. Straight of the bat I connected with Ruby through her grief and her need to do something she's always wanted to do. There's nothing like loosing a loved one to make you re-evaluate your life and your dreams.
Queue Harvey, she has an unfrienly run in with him...don't worry though he redeems himself and you will be swooning over him in no time, I sure was! I loved Harveys unwavering support even when others tried to get in the way, (hello Molly 🤜🏼) I love yo loath her!!
Ruby was sassy, stood her ground and didn't let anyone put her down no matter who they were or what their back ground. Even through the scandal and the plot twist, Ruby & Harvey make sacrifices to look after the ones they care about and I absolutely loved them for it. Anna pulls you in to the scandal, you think you know what's coming but you don't. I love when an author leads you down one path ang you think you know what will happen. Talk about a plot twist I didn't see coming.
One of the easiest 5 star reads I've read this year. It's not very often I open a book and know instantly that I'm going to love it. Straight of the bat I connected with Ruby through her grief and her need to do something she's always wanted to do. There's nothing like loosing a loved one to make you re-evaluate your life and your dreams.
Queue Harvey, she has an unfrienly run in with him...don't worry though he redeems himself and you will be swooning over him in no time, I sure was! I loved Harveys unwavering support even when others tried to get in the way, (hello Molly 🤜🏼) I love yo loath her!!
Ruby was sassy, stood her ground and didn't let anyone put her down no matter who they were or what their back ground. Even through the scandal and the plot twist, Ruby & Harvey make sacrifices to look after the ones they care about and I absolutely loved them for it. Anna pulls you in to the scandal, you think you know what's coming but you don't. I love when an author leads you down one path ang you think you know what will happen. Talk about a plot twist I didn't see coming.
July 30, 2025
This is such a beautiful story. One of those that reaches into your chest, cradles your heart, and doesn’t let it go. It’s obvious that it was written with so much care, emotion, and intention, and it’s absolutely brimming with love, healing, humour, tension, and those swoony moments that make you squeal and clutch the Kindle.
Ruby’s journey is raw and painfully relatable in all the right ways. From the very first chapter, we’re dropped into the aftermath of trauma, and her reactions feel so genuine, never forced or dramatised for effect. She’s a real, grounded FMC - the kind you feel like you know. Her growth and her quiet courage are incredibly moving, and I think her story is going to resonate deeply with so many readers. At its core, this is a story about choosing joy, doing something for yourself simply because you can, and finding the right people to hold space for your healing. It’s inspiring, powerful, and so authentically Annabella Lowe.
Harvey… Oh, Harvey. He is a total swoon fest. From the beginning, the way he sees Ruby is so tender, but the romance isn’t rushed. There’s no insta-love or surface level lust, it’s a genuine connection that builds with beautiful pacing. And when they have their “fuck it” moment, it just works. Their chemistry is grounded in admiration, depth, and emotional resonance, and it is sooo utterly satisfying to witness. What I especially loved is that their connection isn’t one-sided - while Harvey supports Ruby’s healing, she also becomes a catalyst for his growth in return.
The side characters are equally wonderful - both Ruby and Harvey have strong support systems in a specific person, and I loved how their worlds intertwined so naturally. It added even more heart and depth to the story. And let’s not forget the 'villains'. They are written so well, they are complex and painfully realistic. You don’t just get told they’re awful; you feel it through Ruby and Harvey’s experiences, and that makes every confrontation land harder.
The plot itself flows effortlessly. The pacing is spot on, the dialogue feels natural, and when the tension ramps up, from emotional conflicts to terrifying high stakes moments, I was completely on edge. It’s gripping in all the right ways, without over dramatising it so it still feels very real.
And then there’s the epilogue... Ughhhh, the most perfect, beautiful goodbye to these characters and their journey. It wraps up everything in a way that feels so right… even though I would’ve happily stayed with them forever.
Ruby’s journey is raw and painfully relatable in all the right ways. From the very first chapter, we’re dropped into the aftermath of trauma, and her reactions feel so genuine, never forced or dramatised for effect. She’s a real, grounded FMC - the kind you feel like you know. Her growth and her quiet courage are incredibly moving, and I think her story is going to resonate deeply with so many readers. At its core, this is a story about choosing joy, doing something for yourself simply because you can, and finding the right people to hold space for your healing. It’s inspiring, powerful, and so authentically Annabella Lowe.
Harvey… Oh, Harvey. He is a total swoon fest. From the beginning, the way he sees Ruby is so tender, but the romance isn’t rushed. There’s no insta-love or surface level lust, it’s a genuine connection that builds with beautiful pacing. And when they have their “fuck it” moment, it just works. Their chemistry is grounded in admiration, depth, and emotional resonance, and it is sooo utterly satisfying to witness. What I especially loved is that their connection isn’t one-sided - while Harvey supports Ruby’s healing, she also becomes a catalyst for his growth in return.
The side characters are equally wonderful - both Ruby and Harvey have strong support systems in a specific person, and I loved how their worlds intertwined so naturally. It added even more heart and depth to the story. And let’s not forget the 'villains'. They are written so well, they are complex and painfully realistic. You don’t just get told they’re awful; you feel it through Ruby and Harvey’s experiences, and that makes every confrontation land harder.
The plot itself flows effortlessly. The pacing is spot on, the dialogue feels natural, and when the tension ramps up, from emotional conflicts to terrifying high stakes moments, I was completely on edge. It’s gripping in all the right ways, without over dramatising it so it still feels very real.
And then there’s the epilogue... Ughhhh, the most perfect, beautiful goodbye to these characters and their journey. It wraps up everything in a way that feels so right… even though I would’ve happily stayed with them forever.
September 15, 2025
I’m a lover of a bit of angst, heartbreak and turmoil for the characters, so reading the blurb for this already had me ready to go. Ruby’s had heartbreak in her life and decides to pick up a childhood dream again as a way of coping with her loss.
Harvey is a sweetheart but not a pushover, he has his own family dramas but he’s willing to put everything to one side so he can help Ruby with her plans.
Both characters are really well rounded. Ruby’s headstrong and fierce, with a sassy tongue and a determination for her new plans, and Harvey is exactly the right character to match with her.
The slow-burn tension is great, I loved the slow bonding and getting to know one another, the sweet gestures between them as their friendship started to blossom.
The side characters are all great - I loved Ruby’s best friend and her family, I even liked the devious characters because they added so much to the story and were rounded characters rather than just there for the drama.
The horse riding in the story is the right balance to make it part of the story without it overshadowing the romance. I have limited experiences with horses so I was interested to learn things as well as being reminded about the things I did know.
There’s a dramatic event in the book which was really well written and tense, keeping me on the edge of my seat when reading.
The epilogue was perfection, and I loved how all the strands were wrapped up.
This book packs a mighty emotional punch but feels like a warm hug, one I thoroughly enjoyed.
Harvey is a sweetheart but not a pushover, he has his own family dramas but he’s willing to put everything to one side so he can help Ruby with her plans.
Both characters are really well rounded. Ruby’s headstrong and fierce, with a sassy tongue and a determination for her new plans, and Harvey is exactly the right character to match with her.
The slow-burn tension is great, I loved the slow bonding and getting to know one another, the sweet gestures between them as their friendship started to blossom.
The side characters are all great - I loved Ruby’s best friend and her family, I even liked the devious characters because they added so much to the story and were rounded characters rather than just there for the drama.
The horse riding in the story is the right balance to make it part of the story without it overshadowing the romance. I have limited experiences with horses so I was interested to learn things as well as being reminded about the things I did know.
There’s a dramatic event in the book which was really well written and tense, keeping me on the edge of my seat when reading.
The epilogue was perfection, and I loved how all the strands were wrapped up.
This book packs a mighty emotional punch but feels like a warm hug, one I thoroughly enjoyed.
August 11, 2025
IMO a good romance is a balance of character depth, pacing and romance and this book mastered all three! It's like this carefully contrived dance of subtle attraction, irritation and their own agendas all playing a part and I am HERE for it!
The tale begins with Ruby and the author’s expression of loss was both concise but also thoughtful. It drew you into her character straight away and had you rooting for her, so when she does the unexpected and decides to live out her dream of taking up riding lessons I wanted her to succeed.
Now Harvey. The topless stable scene is reason alone to make this into a movie! His relationship with the FMC begins as a tentative one. What draws you to him as the MMC is his initial ability to recognise another troubled soul and seeks to redeem it in the limited way he can. This begins the genuine foundations of a believable partnership that quickly sizzles with tension and banter.
Next throw in some drama, (I won’t specify what) some unconventional family power dynamics and a contract that forbids the MCs from getting together and you have a recipe for a great novel!
And if that hasn’t convinced you already I’ll say it now… if you are a romance fan where the plot is just as important as the romance, you need to read this book!
A huge thank you to the author for the advanced reader copy!
The tale begins with Ruby and the author’s expression of loss was both concise but also thoughtful. It drew you into her character straight away and had you rooting for her, so when she does the unexpected and decides to live out her dream of taking up riding lessons I wanted her to succeed.
Now Harvey. The topless stable scene is reason alone to make this into a movie! His relationship with the FMC begins as a tentative one. What draws you to him as the MMC is his initial ability to recognise another troubled soul and seeks to redeem it in the limited way he can. This begins the genuine foundations of a believable partnership that quickly sizzles with tension and banter.
Next throw in some drama, (I won’t specify what) some unconventional family power dynamics and a contract that forbids the MCs from getting together and you have a recipe for a great novel!
And if that hasn’t convinced you already I’ll say it now… if you are a romance fan where the plot is just as important as the romance, you need to read this book!
A huge thank you to the author for the advanced reader copy!
September 15, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up
A grieving woman, a brooding man and a forbidden romance. All of this with horses, strong friendships, a small town and British slang. What more could you possibly want in a romance?
Breaking Ruby by Annabella Lowe is a romance that is published today!
There were many things that I truly enjoyed about Breaking Ruby and would definitely recommend it. the characters were fleshed out and I could relate in some way to nearly all of them. Care was put into how grief was portrayed and the despite the use of some of the usual romance tropes, Harvey and Ruby had a realistic relationship. I didn't feel like I had to suspend disbelief, which is important for me.
I liked that the horses were an integral part of the story and were treated as such. The author's love of horses came through and the descriptions made me feel truly immersed in the story. I would definitely have liked to spend more time with all of these characters and hopefully the backstories of some of the minor characters will be explored in the future.
This was my first time reading Annabella Lowe, but I will definitely read more in the future. I appreciate the opportunity to read, review and provide feedback for this wonderful book. Thank you to the author for providing a digital advance reader copy. All opinions are my own. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well written romance.
A grieving woman, a brooding man and a forbidden romance. All of this with horses, strong friendships, a small town and British slang. What more could you possibly want in a romance?
Breaking Ruby by Annabella Lowe is a romance that is published today!
There were many things that I truly enjoyed about Breaking Ruby and would definitely recommend it. the characters were fleshed out and I could relate in some way to nearly all of them. Care was put into how grief was portrayed and the despite the use of some of the usual romance tropes, Harvey and Ruby had a realistic relationship. I didn't feel like I had to suspend disbelief, which is important for me.
I liked that the horses were an integral part of the story and were treated as such. The author's love of horses came through and the descriptions made me feel truly immersed in the story. I would definitely have liked to spend more time with all of these characters and hopefully the backstories of some of the minor characters will be explored in the future.
This was my first time reading Annabella Lowe, but I will definitely read more in the future. I appreciate the opportunity to read, review and provide feedback for this wonderful book. Thank you to the author for providing a digital advance reader copy. All opinions are my own. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well written romance.
August 22, 2025
Wow. That is all I have to say. I honestly almost don’t have words to describe this book,I completely fell in love with it from start to finish!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 stars!!
I finished this book with the hugest smile on my face. Now,I may be biased. I am a horsey girl myself,so this book instantly spoke to my heart. When I got the email with my arc,I was so excited,and I genuinely could not stop reading this.
The plot is so incredibly well structured,and it was so easy to fall in love with the main characters. Mainly Harvey🙈🙈.
Tears were definitely shed a few times,and the story really reminds you to cherish the relationships and people around you,as you never know what could happen. The book is beautiful in every way,and I am so smitten. I’m not sure that i’ll ever get over this book,and I am devastated that it is going to be a stand alone.😂😂
⭐️Breaking Ruby releases on the 15th September,so go ahead and get your pre orders in. Get ready for your heart to be touched!!⭐️
Thank you so much to the author for trusting me to read and review this early copy. So So beautiful. It deserves so much credit and appreciation .
Tropes!!
~Small town romance🏡
~He falls first
~Forbidden romance
~Touch her and you’ll die🔥
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 stars!!
I finished this book with the hugest smile on my face. Now,I may be biased. I am a horsey girl myself,so this book instantly spoke to my heart. When I got the email with my arc,I was so excited,and I genuinely could not stop reading this.
The plot is so incredibly well structured,and it was so easy to fall in love with the main characters. Mainly Harvey🙈🙈.
Tears were definitely shed a few times,and the story really reminds you to cherish the relationships and people around you,as you never know what could happen. The book is beautiful in every way,and I am so smitten. I’m not sure that i’ll ever get over this book,and I am devastated that it is going to be a stand alone.😂😂
⭐️Breaking Ruby releases on the 15th September,so go ahead and get your pre orders in. Get ready for your heart to be touched!!⭐️
Thank you so much to the author for trusting me to read and review this early copy. So So beautiful. It deserves so much credit and appreciation .
Tropes!!
~Small town romance🏡
~He falls first
~Forbidden romance
~Touch her and you’ll die🔥
August 22, 2025
Firstly, very thankful to Anna for trusting me with her amazing book's review. Secondly, this book was exactly what i needed. It felt like a warm hug till the end. 🥹
Its a very beautifully written short novella and honestly who could've thought a novella can make you swoon like this. Ruby our fmc is currently facing a massive challenge in her life and within all the chaos of emotions she decides to do something her little self always wanted to try.✨
Ruby (love how her name suits her personality) ends up taking horse riding lessons from Harvey, our mmc. Harvey is i guess what everyone needs in there life. Like a little part of soul was healed to read about how Harvey take cares of her? Harvey is much needed yall🥹✨
My favorite part about this book was the knowledge i gained about horses throughout the book. One can definitely tell that Anna always loved horses and how she has talked about her love for them is so cute. Otto and Pheonix were absolute babies and i loved learning about them🦋
I wish this wasn't just a novella and ihate to say goodbye to these characters but i guess the artist in me will end up making a fanart of Harvey and Ruby very soon🥹✨
Its a very beautifully written short novella and honestly who could've thought a novella can make you swoon like this. Ruby our fmc is currently facing a massive challenge in her life and within all the chaos of emotions she decides to do something her little self always wanted to try.✨
Ruby (love how her name suits her personality) ends up taking horse riding lessons from Harvey, our mmc. Harvey is i guess what everyone needs in there life. Like a little part of soul was healed to read about how Harvey take cares of her? Harvey is much needed yall🥹✨
My favorite part about this book was the knowledge i gained about horses throughout the book. One can definitely tell that Anna always loved horses and how she has talked about her love for them is so cute. Otto and Pheonix were absolute babies and i loved learning about them🦋
I wish this wasn't just a novella and ihate to say goodbye to these characters but i guess the artist in me will end up making a fanart of Harvey and Ruby very soon🥹✨
September 14, 2025
I’ve re-read this book three times in the span of six or so months, and it’s just as amazing, if not even more so, with each new read.
This book is like a bear hug from a friend. It’s like a cup of tea that someone makes for you when you’re feeling sad. Like that fave piece of loungewear you put on to feel a bit of comfort.
I happen to be extremely picky with FMCs (for better or worse) and I adore Ruby! These characters are so real, so relatable and honest. The grief and anger they feel is so much like my own. Ruby is feisty but venerable, smart, sassy, funny. Harvey is caring, sweet and has just the perfect touch of a dirty mouth. Their romance is sweet and gentle and just perfect!!!!
If you love horses (which I do not 😆) then this is the perfect book for you! And even if, like me, you know nothing about dressage and eventing (yeah, I also had no clue what those were) this book will make you want to Google your nearest riding school and their riding instructors 😉
Thank you to the author for the E-arc.
This book is like a bear hug from a friend. It’s like a cup of tea that someone makes for you when you’re feeling sad. Like that fave piece of loungewear you put on to feel a bit of comfort.
I happen to be extremely picky with FMCs (for better or worse) and I adore Ruby! These characters are so real, so relatable and honest. The grief and anger they feel is so much like my own. Ruby is feisty but venerable, smart, sassy, funny. Harvey is caring, sweet and has just the perfect touch of a dirty mouth. Their romance is sweet and gentle and just perfect!!!!
If you love horses (which I do not 😆) then this is the perfect book for you! And even if, like me, you know nothing about dressage and eventing (yeah, I also had no clue what those were) this book will make you want to Google your nearest riding school and their riding instructors 😉
Thank you to the author for the E-arc.
September 14, 2025
Breaking Ruby by Anabella Lowe
4 ⭐
2 🌶️
After a tragic loss Ruby Holloway decided she's going to chase her childhood dream of becoming a show jumper. After some drama between a rider and the previous barn manager, Harvey Beckworth finds himself running his parents competition boarding facility. These two cross paths unexpectedly and their story blossoms from there.
Horse girls, and girls with horse girl energy this one is for you! We have romance, yard drama, family drama, animal behavior theory, and a wonderful romance! The FMC is strong, resilient and quick witted! Pay attention to her snarky moments on her Greece trip!
There were a few moments where the writing style felt a little long winded and the formatting felt blocky from the descriptive paragraphs. This wasn't a big issue because Lowe kept the story fast paced even within those few moments.
This story left me wanting more in the best way! I hope Lowe turns this into a series and we get to follow more people at the yard, and see more of their competitions!!
4 ⭐
2 🌶️
After a tragic loss Ruby Holloway decided she's going to chase her childhood dream of becoming a show jumper. After some drama between a rider and the previous barn manager, Harvey Beckworth finds himself running his parents competition boarding facility. These two cross paths unexpectedly and their story blossoms from there.
Horse girls, and girls with horse girl energy this one is for you! We have romance, yard drama, family drama, animal behavior theory, and a wonderful romance! The FMC is strong, resilient and quick witted! Pay attention to her snarky moments on her Greece trip!
There were a few moments where the writing style felt a little long winded and the formatting felt blocky from the descriptive paragraphs. This wasn't a big issue because Lowe kept the story fast paced even within those few moments.
This story left me wanting more in the best way! I hope Lowe turns this into a series and we get to follow more people at the yard, and see more of their competitions!!
September 15, 2025
I just coudn’t stop smiling when I was reading this book. It was well written, easy to dive into the story, with witty dialogs and I just loved the characters.
Ruby feels broken and empty from her mother’s grief but she doesn’t give up and decides to realise a dream that she pushed back for the benefit of studies and career: learning how to ride.
Enters Harvey who pretends to be grumpy but he’s just not. In fact, he’s kind of the horse whisperer and his sensibility makes him pick up on Ruby’s secret hurt and sadness. He’s not supposed to teach her but he does, giving in on the urge to fix her (usually the female character’s kink). He’s just the right amount of flirty and he has a sassy mouth which I’m weak for I confess.
I loved that both of them are not beating around the bush about their feelings and act on them.
If you need a hug, this book is for you. If you need a heart warming romance, this book is for you. If you think horses are magnificent creatures, and even if you don’t give a damn about them, this book is for you.
Ruby feels broken and empty from her mother’s grief but she doesn’t give up and decides to realise a dream that she pushed back for the benefit of studies and career: learning how to ride.
Enters Harvey who pretends to be grumpy but he’s just not. In fact, he’s kind of the horse whisperer and his sensibility makes him pick up on Ruby’s secret hurt and sadness. He’s not supposed to teach her but he does, giving in on the urge to fix her (usually the female character’s kink). He’s just the right amount of flirty and he has a sassy mouth which I’m weak for I confess.
I loved that both of them are not beating around the bush about their feelings and act on them.
If you need a hug, this book is for you. If you need a heart warming romance, this book is for you. If you think horses are magnificent creatures, and even if you don’t give a damn about them, this book is for you.
July 28, 2025
“If only my handsomeness were as effortless as your beauty.”
Breaking Ruby by Annabella Lowe had me pulled in and seated with popcorn from the first paragraph. I loved her writing and world building in Find Me in the Shadows and was so excited to read another book from her. With Horses!? Yes, please!! Can I get a double side of horses I love and truly care for to go with the cozy romance burger? And a low suspense rootbeer to drink? The burger is the star of the story.
Annabella perfectly takes a thread of the suspense and stakes she had in FMitS and sews it perfectly along this cozy, forbidden romance.
Ruby is strong, but dealing with a loss that has her at one of her lowest points in her life. Harvey is slowing being chipped away by putting his dreams on the back burner and trying to fit the mold expected of him. Their story comes together in the most beautiful way.
This is an amazing story for horse lovers and animal lovers alike.
5/5 no notes!
Breaking Ruby by Annabella Lowe had me pulled in and seated with popcorn from the first paragraph. I loved her writing and world building in Find Me in the Shadows and was so excited to read another book from her. With Horses!? Yes, please!! Can I get a double side of horses I love and truly care for to go with the cozy romance burger? And a low suspense rootbeer to drink? The burger is the star of the story.
Annabella perfectly takes a thread of the suspense and stakes she had in FMitS and sews it perfectly along this cozy, forbidden romance.
Ruby is strong, but dealing with a loss that has her at one of her lowest points in her life. Harvey is slowing being chipped away by putting his dreams on the back burner and trying to fit the mold expected of him. Their story comes together in the most beautiful way.
This is an amazing story for horse lovers and animal lovers alike.
5/5 no notes!
August 23, 2025
THAT'S HOW IT'S DONE! IT WAS A 5 STAR READ FROM THE START!
The first thing I ADORED in this book was the maturity the two of them had. They didn't act like teenagers in adult bodies. They understood each other and accepted each other. Bad or good. They proved that they understood boundaries and they were not willing to pass them. And even if the Carrier was the most important they were willing to find ways around it to keep each other close.
It was true love. It showed us that love is not easy but if you fight you'll have it. It felt real. Like it was a story an actual person told me about her love life.
I felt like I was a friend of them watching them grow together.
And I loved how it showed us how important letting yourself grieve is. Each person takes losing a close one easily and it is fair enough but at some point you have to let that sink in and accept it. And Ruby did just that. Showed us a close to reality mourning process.
The first thing I ADORED in this book was the maturity the two of them had. They didn't act like teenagers in adult bodies. They understood each other and accepted each other. Bad or good. They proved that they understood boundaries and they were not willing to pass them. And even if the Carrier was the most important they were willing to find ways around it to keep each other close.
It was true love. It showed us that love is not easy but if you fight you'll have it. It felt real. Like it was a story an actual person told me about her love life.
I felt like I was a friend of them watching them grow together.
And I loved how it showed us how important letting yourself grieve is. Each person takes losing a close one easily and it is fair enough but at some point you have to let that sink in and accept it. And Ruby did just that. Showed us a close to reality mourning process.
September 4, 2025
3 1/2 ⭐ I enjoy novels that make me want to read more and this one was one of them. The beginning was intriguing, I wanted to see where Ruby’s life was going and I liked the meet cute with Harvey. The twist in the end was not expected and well executed.
There were moments where I felt Harvey’s temper was a bit short but Annabella did a good job in showing us why he was the way he was.
I liked learning about the horse behavioral therapy and I loved that Annabella continued to weave Ruby’s mom’s presence throughout the novel.
I did feel that the MC’s did jump into bed too quickly especially when Ruby literally just had a one night stand and they never even discussed it.
Random side note: The title of the novel didn’t line up with the story for me. (Luckily I’m a cover person, which is how I stumbled upon this book) but yeah I felt the title didn’t do the book justice.
Overall an easy, fun read. Especially if you like horses. 😁
There were moments where I felt Harvey’s temper was a bit short but Annabella did a good job in showing us why he was the way he was.
I liked learning about the horse behavioral therapy and I loved that Annabella continued to weave Ruby’s mom’s presence throughout the novel.
I did feel that the MC’s did jump into bed too quickly especially when Ruby literally just had a one night stand and they never even discussed it.
Random side note: The title of the novel didn’t line up with the story for me. (Luckily I’m a cover person, which is how I stumbled upon this book) but yeah I felt the title didn’t do the book justice.
Overall an easy, fun read. Especially if you like horses. 😁
September 6, 2025
I adored this book, and I really adored Harvey. He’s green flags everywhere, even if he is a little grumpy (maybe especially because he’s grumpy 😉). And Ruby is so relatable in the way she finds healing in pursuing a childhood dream. It may seem silly to say about a fictional character, but I was so proud of her. And Harvey too. I loved reading about these two growing and healing together. The banter is superb, the spice just right, and the writing reads so smoothly. Oh, and if you’re worried that this is one of “those” horse books, don’t be. You’re invited into this beautiful world of training and equestrian without feeling like you’re being schooled or like you need to join in on the obsession.
September 8, 2025
Solid 4.25⭐️ 1 🌶️ Level
Breaking Ruby is such a wonderful story. It took me through an amazing journey of self discovery, grief, slowburn romance, witty banter, cattiness and honestly so much more.
I loved the FMC to bits and enjoyed her journey of healing with the horses. Her story had me gripping the book and I didn’t want to put it down.
The MMC was just the amount of grumpiness and some of the golden retriever qualities. I enjoyed his fierce loyalty and protective nature.
I highly recommend this amazing story to anyone that wants a story the pulls on your heart strings and still ends with an amazing happy ending. Oh! To top it off you learn a little about bourses. Annabelle did an amazing jobs with her research. :).
Breaking Ruby is such a wonderful story. It took me through an amazing journey of self discovery, grief, slowburn romance, witty banter, cattiness and honestly so much more.
I loved the FMC to bits and enjoyed her journey of healing with the horses. Her story had me gripping the book and I didn’t want to put it down.
The MMC was just the amount of grumpiness and some of the golden retriever qualities. I enjoyed his fierce loyalty and protective nature.
I highly recommend this amazing story to anyone that wants a story the pulls on your heart strings and still ends with an amazing happy ending. Oh! To top it off you learn a little about bourses. Annabelle did an amazing jobs with her research. :).
September 14, 2025
📚 ARC Review 📚
✨ Breaking Ruby ✨
by Annabella Lowe
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m a sucker for a good romance novel — but when it’s great? I’m a total goner. 🥰
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC from the lovely Annabella Lowe in exchange for an honest review, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Ruby’s healing journey after a sudden loss is tender, raw, and hopeful. Enter Harvey — the swoon-worthy horse-riding instructor who’s instantly intrigued by her and patiently helps her break down walls of grief and defensiveness, one riding lesson at a time. 🏇
The writing is lyrical yet grounded, the plot realistic but blissfully escapist. The side characters add just the right spark, and the sweet ending is guaranteed to leave you swooning.❤️ Highly recommended!🌟
✨ Breaking Ruby ✨
by Annabella Lowe
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m a sucker for a good romance novel — but when it’s great? I’m a total goner. 🥰
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC from the lovely Annabella Lowe in exchange for an honest review, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Ruby’s healing journey after a sudden loss is tender, raw, and hopeful. Enter Harvey — the swoon-worthy horse-riding instructor who’s instantly intrigued by her and patiently helps her break down walls of grief and defensiveness, one riding lesson at a time. 🏇
The writing is lyrical yet grounded, the plot realistic but blissfully escapist. The side characters add just the right spark, and the sweet ending is guaranteed to leave you swooning.❤️ Highly recommended!🌟
October 5, 2025
Breaking Ruby is a story that touches your heart,warms your soul, and fills you with hope.
Ruby is grieving the loss of her mother, and to find some light through the darkness, she decides to take horseback riding lessons - a childhood dream she never got to fulfill. That’s where this beautiful journey of healing and love begins.
What truly captivated me was the absence of unnecessary drama between the FMC and MMC. Their love grew naturally and gently - a slow burn filled with genuine care and support. Even though life threw challenges and drama their way, and their love was forbidden from the start, they faced everything together.
This book was pure, soul-refreshing comfort -emotional, tender, and beautifully written.
Ruby is grieving the loss of her mother, and to find some light through the darkness, she decides to take horseback riding lessons - a childhood dream she never got to fulfill. That’s where this beautiful journey of healing and love begins.
What truly captivated me was the absence of unnecessary drama between the FMC and MMC. Their love grew naturally and gently - a slow burn filled with genuine care and support. Even though life threw challenges and drama their way, and their love was forbidden from the start, they faced everything together.
This book was pure, soul-refreshing comfort -emotional, tender, and beautifully written.
September 3, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! My only complaint? I wish it were longer because I didn’t want to leave the characters behind.
Ruby is a relatable main character who faces a huge loss and decides to chase her dream of show jumping. Enter Harvey, a rich equestrian yard manager, who initially gives her the cold shoulder, but their relationship slowly grows. Their banter is so much fun!
This story beautifully explores grief and the healing power of horses and love. Overall, it’s a heartfelt romance that balances resilience and the joy of following your dreams. It’s one of my top reads this year, and I highly recommend it!
Ruby is a relatable main character who faces a huge loss and decides to chase her dream of show jumping. Enter Harvey, a rich equestrian yard manager, who initially gives her the cold shoulder, but their relationship slowly grows. Their banter is so much fun!
This story beautifully explores grief and the healing power of horses and love. Overall, it’s a heartfelt romance that balances resilience and the joy of following your dreams. It’s one of my top reads this year, and I highly recommend it!
September 3, 2025
I started Breaking Ruby and immediately knew I was going to enjoy it. I loved the dynamics of family, grief and love.
After losing her mother, Ruby decides to take a chance on a childhood dream and seeks out horse riding lessons. She's met with Harvey, an unconventional coach with a dream of doing behavior training.
Their relationships grows and faces multiple challenges, including other people and contracts. One thing I LOVED about Breaking Ruby was the loyalty Ruby and Harvey had to each other. Once they fell in love, they knew it was worth fighting for.
I would really love a book POV of Molly. One that spans before, during and after Breaking Ruby!
After losing her mother, Ruby decides to take a chance on a childhood dream and seeks out horse riding lessons. She's met with Harvey, an unconventional coach with a dream of doing behavior training.
Their relationships grows and faces multiple challenges, including other people and contracts. One thing I LOVED about Breaking Ruby was the loyalty Ruby and Harvey had to each other. Once they fell in love, they knew it was worth fighting for.
I would really love a book POV of Molly. One that spans before, during and after Breaking Ruby!
September 9, 2025
i haven't really read books with horses nor am i familiar with horses and riding in general, but this was such a lovely book!!! i really adore how both Ruby and Harvey were just connected by their love for horses 🥹
this was just a love story full of silent strength, healing, and a healthy relationship. like Ruby and Harvey are just GOALS 😭 why can't all men be like Harvey?? and Ruby? just a little spitfire!!!!!
this was just an emotional, comforting book that you can quickly finish but wish it would never end 😭
can i have a horse too?
this was just a love story full of silent strength, healing, and a healthy relationship. like Ruby and Harvey are just GOALS 😭 why can't all men be like Harvey?? and Ruby? just a little spitfire!!!!!
this was just an emotional, comforting book that you can quickly finish but wish it would never end 😭
can i have a horse too?
September 15, 2025
If you love a good romance this book is for you! If you love horses then this book is for you! If you don’t like either then it doesn’t matter this book is also for you! It’s a great story of someone who has gone through a tragedy and is learning to live for herself and love again. It’s about her finally living out a dream that she’s had for years (now who can’t relate to wanting to do that?), and her finding an unexpected family. Romance is not normally my genre but I just fell in love with all the characters and it was such a refreshing and engaging read, I couldn’t recommend it more.
August 24, 2025
Really enjoyed this book. The main character Ruby is a sassy and straight talking FMC and Harvey is absolutely swoon worthy. The novel is based around showjumping and I know nothing about horses but that didn’t matter. I even learned a thing or two. The story is full of emotion and it will have you rooting for them the whole way through!
I don’t want to give spoilers but I thought the holiday chapter was a great addition!
I don’t want to give spoilers but I thought the holiday chapter was a great addition!
July 28, 2025
Oh my gosh! I sobbed in the first chapter and laughed in the second! Cheered Ruby on and fell in love with Harvey!
Everyone that’s into horses will know there’s always that one person in the yard, but even she redeemed herself.
Went through every emotion possible and this is well written and addressed issues that can be tragic.
A great read, highly recommend!
Everyone that’s into horses will know there’s always that one person in the yard, but even she redeemed herself.
Went through every emotion possible and this is well written and addressed issues that can be tragic.
A great read, highly recommend!
August 22, 2025
This book has made me felt many emotions and each of them worthy: It's been amazingly captivating since the very beginning, I've loved how genuine Ruby, Harvey - the FMC and MMC - and even the rest of characters are, the worldbuilding is better than most of fantasy I've read. Overall; I've adored its cover and vibes but my heart cares and heals with the whole story.
August 19, 2025
Well if the fact that I read this in 1 day doesn’t tell you it’s a good book, then I don’t know what will. This is the type of romance you read when you want a story about a man who actually loves his woman. I mean really, someone tell me where I can find my Harvey!
September 11, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. I read it easily in one sitting!
A small town romance, a grumpy sunshine, a navigation around grief and of course, horses. Rules are there to be broken!
A small town romance, a grumpy sunshine, a navigation around grief and of course, horses. Rules are there to be broken!
September 18, 2025
Everybody stop what you’re doing, Annabella Lowe has written another book! 🙌🏻😍 This time we have a contemporary romance featuring love, loss, and the power of new beginnings. Plus a very attractive MMC which is always a bonus 😏
In the aftermath of familial loss, Ruby Holloway realised that she’d stopped dreaming somewhere in her teens and grew old before her time. Deciding to reach out to a local stable yard for riding lessons to reignite her past passions, she finds herself agreeing to more of an unorthodox riding setup, tutored by the yard manager Harvey Beckworth. Caught between his personal ambitions and the heavy expectations placed on him by his father, Harvey intends to do things differently with Ruby, lead by example and break tradition after taking over the competition yard. What begins as riding lessons blossoms into something more than either of them could have anticipated 🤍
My Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
The prose flows so smoothly in this book and it is the perfect size for you to absolutely fly through! The characters are complex and well rounded, and the trauma themes are well handled. The romance built steadily to a crescendo and did not feel at all rushed which is very difficult to do given the size of the book, but the plot unravelled organically, timelines travelled at their usual pace, and the romance was VERY swoon-worthy with the perfect sprinkle of spice 😍❤️🔥
This little book certainly packs a punch, in the best way. It was emotional and very heartwarming to watch Harvey and Ruby heal the broken parts of each other. It was such a sweet novella, and on top of this
Annabella Lowe really knows how to write an infuriating antagonist!! This book is also meticulously researched. The terminology used and equestrian phrasing clearly came from a place of knowledge, but it was made accessible to the every day ‘non-horsey’ reader and its usage gave the story more depth🙌🏻
In the aftermath of familial loss, Ruby Holloway realised that she’d stopped dreaming somewhere in her teens and grew old before her time. Deciding to reach out to a local stable yard for riding lessons to reignite her past passions, she finds herself agreeing to more of an unorthodox riding setup, tutored by the yard manager Harvey Beckworth. Caught between his personal ambitions and the heavy expectations placed on him by his father, Harvey intends to do things differently with Ruby, lead by example and break tradition after taking over the competition yard. What begins as riding lessons blossoms into something more than either of them could have anticipated 🤍
My Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
The prose flows so smoothly in this book and it is the perfect size for you to absolutely fly through! The characters are complex and well rounded, and the trauma themes are well handled. The romance built steadily to a crescendo and did not feel at all rushed which is very difficult to do given the size of the book, but the plot unravelled organically, timelines travelled at their usual pace, and the romance was VERY swoon-worthy with the perfect sprinkle of spice 😍❤️🔥
This little book certainly packs a punch, in the best way. It was emotional and very heartwarming to watch Harvey and Ruby heal the broken parts of each other. It was such a sweet novella, and on top of this
Annabella Lowe really knows how to write an infuriating antagonist!! This book is also meticulously researched. The terminology used and equestrian phrasing clearly came from a place of knowledge, but it was made accessible to the every day ‘non-horsey’ reader and its usage gave the story more depth🙌🏻
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