Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B08S3XPY1P

When I woke up in that hospital bed, I knew my life would never be the same. Returning home broken and unable to do my job anymore, I was lost until she came back into my world.

Though I tried to deny what I was feeling, she made it impossible not to fall for her… and I fell, hard and fast. The problem? I wasn’t the only one who wanted her all to himself. So not only did I have to protect her from a man intent on doing her harm but I also had to tell my brother we were in love with the same woman.

240 pages, ebook

First published May 3, 2021

203 people are currently reading
362 people want to read

About the author

Anna Brooks

81 books1,002 followers
Be 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.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
301 (52%)
4 stars
180 (31%)
3 stars
77 (13%)
2 stars
13 (2%)
1 star
7 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Profile Image for Natasha Mahadeo.
963 reviews6 followers
December 4, 2021
Once you read the 1st page you know instantly you in for the best read yet. This is Brody's and Molly's story.

My Heart broke for Brody in Chapter 1 and I really couldn't see how he could come out from it or fix himself. I should have known better because Anna Brooks knows how to fix broken characters perfectly. Molly who also comes from a damaged back ground but has always crushed then loved Brody from when they were kids was just what the doctor ordered.
These two were so such an amazing fit. They understood each other, protected each other and loved each other beyond measure. Their chemistry is absolutely of the charts. They really are meant to be.

I'm so glad that Molly found someone Strong and who could give her that sense of security she really needs yet still treat her like an independent woman. He respects her choices and opinions.

This book was really and truly amazing and I can't wait to start the next book....
Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
5,552 reviews52 followers
May 8, 2021
Another new to me author and I'm already hooked on her writing. I might need to catch up on the series now. Even though I haven't read the previous books, I have no problem following the story. But I still got curious about their own story.

This is Brody and Molly's story. I absolutely devoured their story. These two are amazing characters with enough chemistry and banter to tied my attention to them. It's a pretty quick and fast-paced read too. It's definitely what I needed. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Sophie Ruthven.
2,323 reviews146 followers
May 6, 2021
This is a new to me author and one I'd definitely be interested in reading more from in the future, as I have seen her work talked about around the book world, I just hadn't taken the plunge yet.
I went into this thinking it was a standalone and in most ways it was, but the first few chapters made me feel like I was missing something, so therefore it took me a bit to fully commit.
If you're looking for a quick, fast paced read with a bit of everything, this is the book for you.
Profile Image for Brooke.
436 reviews2 followers
May 8, 2023
Brody and Molly’s story was cute but I felt like there wasn’t much substance to it, and what was there wasn’t fleshed out well. Brody has loved Molly for years/vice versa and apparently Brody’s brother Baker has as well although that felt out of left field. That whole situation was resolved quickly. The villain of the story was very predictable and that also was solved super quick once the characters discovered who it was. Other than that it was just kind of bland.
Profile Image for Brianna at Renee Entress's Blog.
3,918 reviews118 followers
May 7, 2021
4.5 Stars!

Anna Brooks has certainly got a way with her words and y'all this book was really, really good. I was hooked from early on and our couple? Swoon to the max.

I've not read every book (just a couple.) in the Guarding Her series (rectifying that soon!) but I have to say reading this one makes me remember why I love this author's writing so much and why I really want to go back and check them all out.

Break is the eighth in the series, a standalone, giving us Molly and Brody's story and whoa, these two, loved them hard and fast! Their journey certainly wasn't easy at times and was filled with loads of drama, heat, feels, steam, suspense, all the heart and so much unforgettable family. But y'all they were worth it and their journey was everything.

Break will tic all your boxes like it did mine and leave you wanting so many more moments.

I highly recommend this book.

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Profile Image for Denise .
931 reviews9 followers
May 1, 2021
“It’s so easy, the way we fit, how fast we both ignite. It’s not normal … it’s extraordinary, and I can’t stop.”

Break is the 8th book in the “Guarding Her” series by Anna Brooks. They are well-written interconnected stand-alone stories. This one takes up right after the last one, Gone. At the end of that story, Brody is grievously injured. I’ve been waiting impatiently see what happened to him, and it was so totally worth the wait! After nearly dying and spending months in the hospital because of something that happens while working as an elite bodyguard, Brody has hit his breaking point. Physically broken and mentally shaken up, he decides to resign from his job with Royal Ace Security and go home to Texas. He plans to continue physical therapy, and figure out how to chart a new course in his life as part of the family business.

Once he’s back in his Texas hometown, Brody is reunited with Molly, the best friend of his younger brother, Baker. Brody and Molly shared one hot night together when Brody was in college, but then after college he moved away. Molly is a young woman trying to make her place in the world, chafing under the overbearing attentions of her Dad and 3 older brothers. Kind-hearted to a fault, and somewhat insecure, she generally prefers the company of animals over spending time with people. Baker has been her platonic friend her whole life, but her romantic interest always been directed at Brody.

The dynamic between Molly and Brody is simultaneously wonderful and torturous. They are both trying to be good people, and because of that they can’t seem to get out of their own way. Neither of them believe themselves worthy of the other. Further complicating everything, Brody comes to the conclusion that for years Baker has actually been in love with Molly as more than just a friend. Then in the midst of all that, someone is after Molly, apparently to do her harm. I thought the author did a great job balancing tension with light-hearted moments, tears with passion, and yearning with satisfaction.

Excellent secondary characters add a lot of depth to the story. I liked that the families of the main characters didn’t always agree with them, but always loved them. I was happy to learn at the end of the book that In addition to more to come in this series, another series is coming about Molly’s family. Warning: You may need a couple of tissues and a cold drink when you read this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy.
Profile Image for ~lil maso~.
1,931 reviews49 followers
May 7, 2021
Oh, I enjoy finding new authors to explore, and what a discovery I have made with this author! To be fair, I had heard good things about her writing, so was eager to read a story myself, let’s just say I look forward to reading more from her as I completely and utterly enjoyed this book.

In this story, the two lead characters are very different yet not, confused? 😄 Well, Molly and Brody both came from the same town in Texas, grew up knowing each other, and in fact Baker, Brody’s brother, was Molly’s best friend. But then Brody left their town to work as a specialist bodyguard in California and that was how their lives became so different. This is the story of reconnecting and boy do they reconnect! 😉

I liked both Molly and Brody a lot, both hard-working yet able to have fun, especially Molly. She was a real pip, she didn’t always set out to get into trouble but it often found her nevertheless. 😆 She was a deeply caring person and her love of animals was endearing if not a tad scary at times. Brody was definitely an alpha male who took protecting his woman seriously. However, he did have a deep capacity for love, especially for his family and those he’d become close to in his work life.

The romance is just one element of the story and a good one too. The other one is the light suspense and it takes you on a few twists and turns that create a great storyline. There were plenty of times I found myself laughing out loud, especially with Molly’s antics or the things she said. There were some hairy times as well that had me ready to bite my nails too, I loved it.

I thoroughly recommend this book to everyone.

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*



For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest |
Instagram
2,296 reviews91 followers
May 6, 2021


Oh, I enjoy finding new authors to explore and what a discovery I have made with this author! To be fair, I had heard good things about her writing, so was eager to read a story myself, let’s just say I look forward to reading more from her as I completely and utterly enjoyed this book.

In this story the two lead characters are very different yet not, confused? 😄 Well, Molly and Brody both came from the same town in Texas, grew up knowing each other and in fact Baker, Brody’s brother, was Molly’s best friend. But then Brody left their town to work as a specialist bodyguard in California and that was how their lives became so different. This is the story of reconnecting and boy do they reconnect! 😉

I liked both Molly and Brody a lot, both hard working yet able to have fun, especially Molly. She was a real pip, she didn’t always set out to get into trouble but it often found her nevertheless. 😆 She was a deeply caring person and her love of animals was endearing, if not a tad scary at times. Brody was definitely an alpha male who took protecting his woman seriously. However, he did have a deep capacity for love, especially for his family and those he’d become close to in his work life.

The romance is just one element of the story and a good one too. The other one is the light suspense and it takes you on a few twists and turns that create a great storyline. There were plenty of times I found myself laughing out loud, especially with Molly’s antics or the things she said. There were some hairy times as well that had me ready to bite my nails too, I loved it.

I thoroughly recommend this book to everyone.
Profile Image for Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance).
2,156 reviews73 followers
April 26, 2021
This was my first Anna Brooks novel and I really enjoyed jumping into her world.

While this was a quick read, I thoroughly enjoyed the pacing, the overall plot and all of the characters were highly enjoyable. I'm looking forward to where all of Molly and Brody's brothers continue to take us in future novels.

Molly is the youngest and the only girl in a family with three older brothers, plus her best friend is the youngest out of five brothers. Molly knows how to find trouble when trouble is to be had. Her entire family worries about her and decides to leave her locked in a jail cell for a night when she's made one mistake too many.

In walks Brody, pretty much returning to town after a horrible accident and staying with family while he recuperates, and who does he find locked up and needing to be rescued? The one woman he's never really forgotten.

This adorable meet-cute is actually quite funny and I knew I was hooked not only on this book, but on Anna Brooks from that point forward. What really solidified my new found love for all things Anna Brooks is not only the injected humor, but also the love that both sides of the family showed for Molly and Brody while they worked through their relationship. It squeezed my heart at how supportive they all were. The entire family dynamic is really touching and makes the continued growth of the series something to really look forward to.

Aside from the love that was brewing between Molly and Brody, there is also a suspenseful element to this book. A mystery to solve which made this contemporary romance just that much sweeter. 

I was able to read this book as a complete stand alone.
1,068 reviews
May 1, 2021
A new series for me and wow!!

I admit I was slightly confused in the first chapter as I think this book does somewhat follow on from the previous book in the series (which I hadn’t read) but you can follow it and then the book does take a turn which makes it much more stand-alone. So overall I feel like there is additional enjoyment to be had by reading the series in order, but it isn’t necessary.

I loved this book and will be going back to read the previous in the series.
The characters were well written, I love when you feel like you really understand where they are coming from and that’s true to say about all the main and supporting characters in this book.

Molly was fun, feisty and innocent in a lot of ways, loving her life in a way that made her happy and dealing with overbearing brothers (who were equally hot, and can I just say I can’t wait for their books and will her dad get one too!!!)

Brody was damaged but not as much as he thought, coming home to recover physically but also deal with not being able to be the man he thought he needed to be, I loved his acceptance of his change in circumstance, despite the fact this was proven to be wrong anyway!!

A thrilling storyline that gets you turning the pages, a few twists which make you gasp and a few more that make your heart hurt.
(Are there books on the Bradford boys planned too???)

An unexpected great read for me, an author on my “watch for new releases” list

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Carrie.
3,652 reviews36 followers
May 8, 2021
Brody!!!! My heart shattered for him when he was injured during Izzy/Bella's drama. I'm so happy he got his HEA! : )

He & Molly have history, and when he comes home to Texas, their friendship & chemistry is hot to trot right outta the gate. I love reading about their dynamic - especially w/ her being Baker's best friend. (Speaking of Baker... oh my goodness, have you read Guarding Georgia? That's Beau & Georgia's story & Baker plays a big part in that story, too...) Anyway, it's a tough situation, but I love how it's handled.

Also enjoyed reading the family dynamics w/ both Brody & Molly's families, and I feel like we got a good introduction to her brothers - who will have their own books soon! Their stories didn't overwhelm or overtake Brody & Molly's, while letting us get to know them.

Back to Brody & Molly - excellent banter & swoony sexy times. Just the right amount of heat & sweet. There's also a bit of a mystery where Brody's protective instincts have to come out to play, proving to himself his instincts are still spot on.

Love the whole story & am looking forward to more, more, more!

: )
3,708 reviews40 followers
May 2, 2021
This is book eight in The Guarding Her Series and it is Brody and Molly's story and wow I was on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next. Brody worked for Royal Ace Security but after he was badly injured and in a coma and then had to spend months in hospital he decided not to go back to his job as to go home to rehabilitate and think about his future. Molly absolutely loved animals and can't let them suffer so when she goes to help a cat she ends up in jail so imagine her surprise when Brody walks in and nails her out. Brody and Molly have history as they spent a night together before he left town but they never forgot each other and the more time they spend together the stronger there feelings for each other grow but how will it all turn out for them. There are many twists and turns along with difficult situations and I couldn't put this book down as it is a real page turner and so addictive. Anna Brooks is a brilliant author and writer and I definitely recommend you read this book and others by her and you will definitely not be disappointed.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,091 reviews31 followers
May 1, 2021
Wow Molly and Brody’s story was fire! These two were emotional, fun, sexy and I couldn’t put this book down. Molly is Baker’s best friend who has harbored feelings for Brody for as long as she can remember. They had a moment and then he was gone. As fate would have it he’s back home recouping from gunshot wounds inflicted during a job and plans to stick around for a bit. Both are tap dancing around their feelings for each other until Brody can’t take it anymore and gives in. He’s a mess, not right mentally to give her what she needs, the heart wants what it wants. Only as these two become more, Brody discovers a secret that could put a stop to their budding relationship if he lets it, but also danger is lurking around the corner and Molly is the target. Decisions and choices need to be made, feelings will be hurt, but will Brody and Molly admit to each other what they’ve been denying for years or will it all come tumbling down? Absolutely loved it and I’m so excited for Molly’s brothers getting their stories next. I grabbed this book from BookSprout.
Profile Image for Jackie Vescio.
143 reviews2 followers
May 4, 2021
The one woman he wants is the one he cannot have. Brody is recovering from a near-fatal attack from his job being a bodyguard. While he is in recovery, Brody decides it is time to head back home to Warrenville, Texas to return to his family and see where he wants his life to go when he meets up with Molly, whom he left many years ago. Molly wants to be with him, but Brody’s heart and his head are in conflict. Meanwhile, Molly’s safety is in jeopardy and Brody is determined to be there for her. There is not only Brody and Molly. They both have brothers and their fathers who love and care about them deeply. There are some great side characters in the novel that Brooks introduces us to. The story is about loyalty and love with a twist of suspense! Well done, Anna Brooks!

I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
May 7, 2021
Poor Brody, something happened to him that not only landed him in the hospital, but messed with his mental state as well since he doesn't know if he can go back to his job at Royal Ace Security. Man, my heart truly broke for him because I could feel his fear like it was my own. He decides to continue his healing by heading to the place where he grew up, and this is when he comes face to face with Molly again. She's his brother's best friend, but more than that, they hooked up back in college, and apparently it didn't go away since he wants her just as badly now. However, his brother has secret feelings for Molly so of course there are complications, but there's more. Danger is stalking Molly so can Brody get past his fear to keep her safe?! You don't want to miss out on this second chance story with a kicker of suspense. I LOVED Break, and I believe you will as well after you hit those one click buttons! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Profile Image for Brandy Roberts.
2,082 reviews62 followers
May 6, 2021
Wow I really enjoyed Break it's book eight in the Guarding her series I haven't read the first book in the series but there is a minor spoiler in the first couple of chapters because of the events of the last book witch Ill be reading . I really liked the characters and the story line I was drawn in from start to finish it made me really want to me some of these characters mentioned in previous books in the series and by the author other series . I'm really excited to read more by the author Anna Brooks is one of my favorite authors I love her writing style and just falling for the her characters and being emotionally invested .
stars 4
hero 4
heroine 4
steam 3
Profile Image for Sharon Roush.
293 reviews3 followers
May 1, 2021
Another great book by Anna Brooks. We got to meet Brody in the last Guarding Her book Gone, I don't know about you but the ending had me anxiously waiting to find out what happened to Brody. This book did not disappoint, it had everything the romance the suspense and a happily ever after. It also is a prequel to her new series. So looking forward to Hunter. All I have to say is if you haven't read any of Anna Brooks stories I highly recommend that you do because they draw you in and you never want them to end. Great job!!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Carolyn Spence.
1,911 reviews16 followers
April 30, 2021
"Permanent and public"
Thank you so much for this story. I really didn't think it would happen and the way all your series are connected is fabulous. Brody thought it was like getting the wind knocked out of him, that's when he realized he was all in with Molly. He kept pulling back and Molly was getting frustrated, but he had his reasons. Just the right amount of suspense and the right amount of alpha and a bunch of big brothers! Loved the options at the end of the book for them to choose from.

I voluntarily reviewed this book.
Profile Image for Angie.
599 reviews7 followers
May 6, 2021
Another amazing book by Anna Brooks. This story features Brody from Royal Ace security and Molly.
These two are total opposites.  Molly's best friend is Brody's brother. They all grew up together though Brody left after school ended.
When Brody gets injured on the job, he decides to go back home to heal. Little does he know the Molly has had a crush on him forever.
This is a super cute, intense, fun to read story.  I really enjoyed them getting together and the havoc that comes with it. 
5 stars
Profile Image for Kim.
598 reviews
May 7, 2021
I love the brother/ brother love interest and bodyguard/ client aspect. I really wanted to love Molly. I wanted her to be the strong independent woman she portrayed at times. Other times she was so meek and mild. Letting her brothers run her life. Brody was great for her and I’m glad he finally got his head out of his butt to realize they were great together. I really like the way the characters in this series stick together.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
12k reviews75 followers
April 30, 2021
The author has pulled us onto the lives of Brody and Molly and never lets go. After Brody is shot while doing his job as bodyguard, he decides to go back to his hometown to recuperate and figure out what he wants to do with his life. When he and Molly reconnect, they each realize that they still have strong feelings for the other. The story keeps you turning the pages with fear, danger, action and love.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,304 reviews
May 2, 2021
I couldn't put it down. I absolutely devoured this story. There is nothing about it that I can say wasn't amazing because the whole thing was start to finish. The storyline, the characters, absolutely everything was incredible. I loved it so much.
6,168 reviews58 followers
May 9, 2021
Very heartfelt story. There were parts in the story that brought tears to my eyes. Brody ends up going back to his small town after nearly dying from a horrible accident. He finds that Molly got locked up so he ends up being her hero and rescuing her. This was a very touching and elighting story, with some humor thrown in, shows how the love and support from family for the journey of Brody and Molly. I loved the interaction between Molly and Brody. Very enjoy story. I need to go back to read some of the beginnings of this series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tammy Cole.
368 reviews11 followers
May 10, 2021
I started this book at 7 pm and I couldn't stop until I finished it. I really love this series but Brody is my favorite! He's the ultimate hero that I love. He's an alpha male, very protective and loves hard. The chemistry between these two is intense and I just can't say enough about this book. I'm really excited to learn that Molly's brothers will be getting their own books. This was a great addition to this series.
Profile Image for Deb.
7,539 reviews36 followers
May 12, 2021
An entertaining story of love that was a quick enjoyable read. I liked the characters who had great chemistry. I thought the story was well written but I wish it had been longer.

I requested a copy of this book so I could provide an honest review.
Profile Image for Sandy.
1,214 reviews4 followers
May 7, 2021
Brody! Finally! We have been left wondering about Brody for a bit. Brody decides to go home to work on his recovery. This story will make you laugh a little bit and cry a little bit. The struggle between Brody and Molly and their feelings is a bit difficult to watch. Baker has lots to come to terms with as well. I so can’t wait for Baker to get his HEA!



Profile Image for Lori Caprio Tate.
498 reviews3 followers
May 10, 2021
I can never put down an Anna Brookes book. She has a way of dragging you in and holding you hostage as she brings her worlds to life and this book is no exception. Brody’s world is changed when he comes out of a coma and sparks fly once again for the one who got away Molly. The angst and steam that Ms Brookes writes has me loving this story.
7,813 reviews65 followers
May 12, 2021
I loved the storyline it’s interesting and flows easily from beginning to the end. The characters have undeniably characters throughout the pages.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,560 reviews19 followers
May 10, 2021
I absolutely loved the first person point of view of the story. This is a huge deal breaker for me. I really liked the story, because it pulled me in and held my interest. I read it in one sitting.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sue.
4,348 reviews5 followers
April 29, 2021
This was a pretty good book, but not reading any of the other books I was kind of lost with the characters. A possible brother against brother over a woman, hopefully not. Plenty of action and HEA. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.