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Riggins Brothers #6

Breath by Breath

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Five sons, their perfect matches, and our family grows bigger every year. But this is our story—of how we met, fell, and grew our empire. This is the story of how we discovered the magic.

Lena

Stanley Riggins stole my heart back in high school. Our love blossomed amidst the chaos of life, surviving every challenge that came our way.

We married young, determined to face the world together. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat, because what we built wasn’t just a life, it’s a home—for us and our five wonderful sons.

Now that they have incredible wives of their own, they’ve given us a lively bunch of grandchildren, and our lives are filled with more love and laughter than ever before.


Stanley

From the moment our eyes locked, I knew Lena was the girl for me.

I finally felt the magic the Riggins men always talked about. Through all the ups and downs, our bond only grew stronger. We started a business and then a family. I couldn’t be prouder of our boys and the lives they’ve built with the women who love them as much as we do.

Having Lena by my side as we watch our love continue through the next generation is the greatest reward of all. It’s a true testament to the enduring bond we forged in those high school hallways. Year after year, and breath by breath, she’s still the one.

160 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 2, 2024

200 people are currently reading
209 people want to read

About the author

Kaylee Ryan

102 books6,388 followers
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylee Ryan has earned the affectionate title of “Queen of Swoon” from her devoted readers. With over sixty romance novels to her name, Kaylee has built a beloved catalog of heartfelt stories that celebrate love in all its tender, emotional, and undeniably swoony forms. Her signature blend of charm, chemistry, and genuine happily-ever-afters has captivated readers around the world.

When she’s not crafting new love stories or dreaming up her next unforgettable couple, Kaylee can usually be found with a book in hand, fueling her creativity as a lifelong reader. She cherishes the time spent with her family and friends, embracing the moments that inspire the heart of her stories.

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5 stars
563 (66%)
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192 (22%)
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77 (9%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
Profile Image for Jen ♥.
1,771 reviews989 followers
July 2, 2024
I read this series way back in 2022, and back then I enjoyed all of them (not sure if that's still the case today. 😅) And now that I'm trying to remember much about each book, I think this one, the parents' book, is the best among this series. It's probably because this is where it all began.

The story was short and very fairytale-esque, with no bumps in their married journey. But maybe that's the point—just to show the love these two encompassed that they eventually passed on to their sons. ☺️

The story spans from the very first moment they met until the present day. It was love at first sight, with that "magic" gut feeling that the men in Stanley's family solemnly swear. He knew right then and there that Lena's the one for him, despite them being only 18 years old. They built a life together and have been there for one another through every high and low of their lives. They managed to expand their small business while growing their family and being supportive and loving parents to their kids.

It felt like luck had been with them from the very beginning, and the world was secretly rooting for them to succeed in life with every endeavor they pursued. It's too pleasing to see them do everything with love and devotion. 🥹

Anyhoo, it was just a sweet and heartwarming read. I wish this fictional couple many, many more years together with their loved ones and for them to still have a blissful life ahead of them. 💖


Book info:
- Novella
- Insta-love
- Death of a loved one (cancer)
- HEA (married with 5 sons)
Profile Image for Julie Booklover.
2,112 reviews104 followers
July 3, 2024
I love this addition to the Riggins Family. It's a quick read, a story that starts at the beginning and continues through the present day. It's a heartwarming read with no drama, just the fairy tale of Stanley and Lena and their boys. The love of two young people and the family they built.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Mags.
3,047 reviews36 followers
July 4, 2024
OMG!!! This was the story I didn't know I needed to read.

As the OG Stanley and Lenas story is told. From the moment they meet in high school, and the magic happens to the birth of their fifth son Marshall. This story covers every precious, delightful, swoon worthy, magical moment. Including an update on the current Riggins boys and their big boisterous family. As they all get together to celebrate each other and Lena and Stanley certainly have a lot to celebrate with five sons, five daughters and nineteen grandchildren to love.
Profile Image for Leanne.
753 reviews19 followers
July 28, 2024
We’ve met the brothers, but now we get their parent’s story. This is a quick paced novella that spans their journey from high school to present day, carefully weaving in nods to each of their sons’ love stories. This was a heartwarming read with no angst, but sprinkled with spice! If you’re a Kaylee fan this is a must read and if you’re not it’s a great place to start!

POV: 1st dual
Angst: None
Spice: 3/5
Profile Image for Nikki Costello ***Crazy Cajun Book Addicts Blog***.
2,079 reviews57 followers
July 1, 2024
4.5 Stars

The sixth and final book in the Riggins series takes us back to where it all began, a prequel of sorts.
Breath by Breath is Stanley and Lena's story. We get to see how they met, when the magic began, and the start of this wonderful family.
All in all, it's a fantastic instalment to this fabulous series. I'm just so sad it's come to an end, but I look forward to seeing what Kaylee Ryan gives us next.
Profile Image for Kat Wes.
415 reviews5 followers
July 2, 2024
This was a great story!

Lena moves to a new town after losing her father to cancer. She's nervous about not knowing anyone but the first day at her new school thw hottest guy in school takes a liking to her. He makes sure he is the first boy she will date in town. It was a wonderful story that followed their relationship from first meeting through having kids and beyond.
Profile Image for Laurenreadingrecs .
610 reviews39 followers
June 19, 2024
Breath by Breath is a story we have all been waiting for.. a story we didn’t even know we needed to read but are so glad we did.

If you read the rest of the series you read about Royce, Owen, Conrad, Grant and Marshall Riggins… now we get to meet the Parents… Stanley and Lena

Lena is still grieving the loss of her dad and is starting her senior year of high school in a new school. She meets Stanley. Stanley, used to listen to his dad and grandfather talk about find your person, the magic . As soon as he meets Lena he knows she’s his person.. his magic.

Reading this novella was great it gave us more insight into the magic, but also them as a couple. I adored this whole series and if you haven’t read the rest make sure you read about those Riggins men.
Profile Image for Bubu Booklover.
7 reviews
July 24, 2024
I wish it was a bit more

I love Kaylee Ryan and her books! I loved the Riggins family and each of the boys stories. I was REALLY looking forward to reading Breath by Breath but unfortunately I didn't love it. It reads like a prolonged Epilogue. I wish she gave us more like the first chapter, their high school relationship, how they interacted in school and how she fell for him. It was disjointed and it honestly felt like an epilogue. Other than that I was happy to see all my Riggins boys.
2,188 reviews5 followers
July 11, 2024
3 stars
This is so sweet, your teeth will ache.
Where it all began. The magic Stanley (the dad) describes to each of his five sons.
Stanley and Lena have five sons. They make up the five books of the Riggins brothers.
This book goes back to the day Stanley met Lena, the new girl at school. He felt the magic that day.
The book chronicles their love affair and their life from a tiny apartment to starting Riggins Enterprises to the birth of each of their five sons.
There’s no angst. No serious drama. Just a sweet recap of their life together.
Profile Image for Samantha (Millennial Life Crisis Bookshelf).
1,429 reviews22 followers
June 28, 2024
The Riggins that starts it all! I loved that Kaylee provided us a prequel of sorts in the form of the love story between the Riggins parents – it was different yet so perfect to round out this series and bring us back to these characters. Lena has moved to town to start her senior year after the death of her father, and she isn’t sure how she is going to go on without her dad and with starting a new school with no friends. Fate intervenes in the form of Stanley, who was chosen to be Lena’s school buddy for the day after someone else was unable to do the job. When they meet its instant sparks for Stanley, and he knows that his world has forever changed, realizing what his father and uncles have told him is actually true and not fluff. He spends the whole school year proving to Lena his feelings for her, and she finally gives in, and they start a relationship, and then after they graduate, start to build lives and careers together. We get to know how Stanley started and built his successful business and how they ended up in their forever home and property that we get to know in the previous books. This was such an epic love story for these characters and a great way to end the series. I can’t wait to see what else comes from Kaylee in the future!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Read.Review.Repeat Blog.
5,927 reviews100 followers
July 4, 2024
I love it when we get to see where things started. We get to see when Stanley finds his magic and where all the personalities we know and love became. This was a wonderful novella to end this series. I loved how it all tied together beautiful. This is a must-read series!! ~Andrea


"""Breath by Breath"" by Kaylee Ryan takes readers on an emotional journey through the lives of the Riggins family, starting from the moment Lena and Stanley, high school sweethearts, first met. Their love story blossoms into a life filled with five sons and a thriving business that surpasses their expectations.

Ryan skillfully weaves together heartfelt moments and steamy encounters, creating a narrative that captures both the warmth of family bonds and the passion between its characters. The novel explores the joys and challenges of building a family, highlighting the enduring love that sustains them through life's trials.

For fans of romance and family sagas, ""Breath by Breath"" offers a compelling blend of nostalgia, love, and personal growth. Ryan's writing invites readers to reflect on the power of love and resilience, making it a satisfying read for those seeking a heartfelt story with a touch of steaminess.
" ~Stephanie
Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
5,571 reviews53 followers
July 10, 2024
Breath by Breath by Kaylee Ryan is a captivating addition to the Riggins Brothers series that delivers an engaging and heartwarming story. As the sixth book in the series, it follows the parents of the Riggins brothers, Stanley and Lena, as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship and the growth of their family.

Ryan's writing is both eloquent and emotionally resonant, drawing me in as a reader and immersing me in the lives of the Riggins clan. The narrative seamlessly blends tender moments of love and connection with the challenges of building a life and legacy together. As a fan of the series, I appreciated the opportunity to delve deeper into the origins of this beloved family, and I believe new readers will find the story accessible and immersive as well.

The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Ryan skillfully capturing the nuances of their personalities and the dynamics within the family. The growth and evolution of Stanley and Lena's relationship is particularly poignant, as they face obstacles and triumphs that will resonate with me as a reader.

Overall, Breath by Breath is a must-read for fans of the Riggins Brothers series and a delightful entry point for those new to Kaylee Ryan's work. With its rich storytelling, compelling characters, and heartfelt moments, this book is a true five-star reading experience that I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Tanja OMGReads.
2,493 reviews56 followers
June 26, 2024
I've been a huge fan of Kaylee Ryan since I've read her for the first time and luck would have it, it was Layer by Layer which is the first book in this series. And I've been here ever since. And to say that my heart is full after finishing this short, sweet and swoony story, where we got to see just how it all began, is an understatement.

I loved Lena and Stanley every time they appeared earlier in the series guiding their sons through everything life threw at them. The love they shared for each other was powerful and it leaped from the pages. I wish I could read this series for the first time once again just so I can fall hard all over again for every single person in the series.

Kaylee Ryan is amazing and I hope she'll keep delivering us amazing characters like the Riggins family for us to fall madly in love with.

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Profile Image for Kelchickbooklover.
2,062 reviews67 followers
June 30, 2024
I love the way that Ms. Ryan takes us back to the beginning with Stanley and Lena. Their story is one of the first love, the one that you knew was the one for you and the magic that the Riggins men talk about. Breath by Breath is the last book in the Riggins Brothers series and it is magical, sweet, full of life and brilliantly written.
She gives us Lena and Stanley, high school sweethearts whose love grows and blossoms over time. A chance meeting on Lena's first day at a new high school, Stanley is the one who gets to show her around. He feels he has found his magic that the Riggins men talk about. The one woman who is the one, the woman who owns his heart, the one who life centers around. The only thing is Lena needed time. Stanley never gave up and was right beside her for everything in life.
Ms. Ryan writes with such emotion that she has her readers pulled in right from the start. Breath by Breath is one novella that I will read over and over when I need a feel-good story or a pick-me-up.
Profile Image for Stephanie Crews.
609 reviews2 followers
June 23, 2024
"Breath by Breath" by Kaylee Ryan takes readers on an emotional journey through the lives of the Riggins family, starting from the moment Lena and Stanley, high school sweethearts, first met. Their love story blossoms into a life filled with five sons and a thriving business that surpasses their expectations.

Ryan skillfully weaves together heartfelt moments and steamy encounters, creating a narrative that captures both the warmth of family bonds and the passion between its characters. The novel explores the joys and challenges of building a family, highlighting the enduring love that sustains them through life's trials.

For fans of romance and family sagas, "Breath by Breath" offers a compelling blend of nostalgia, love, and personal growth. Ryan's writing invites readers to reflect on the power of love and resilience, making it a satisfying read for those seeking a heartfelt story with a touch of steaminess.
Profile Image for Katie.
493 reviews22 followers
July 1, 2024
4.5/5 Stars
2/5 Spice

I love Kaylees writing. The books I have read of hers I have fallen in love with the characters and reading this novella for Lena & Stanley was perfect. I have not read the Riggins family yet so to read the parents story before their children's stories I am actually really excited for that!

Stanley and Lena's love story starts off with them meeting Senior year of High School with Lena being new and Stanley being her guide. Stanley has an instant connection with Lena or what his family refers to as "magic". It was instant but their love was pure and true.

I could have read a full length novel for their story but the novella had all of the feels. You can feel the love and watch them grow together nurturing their love in a natural progression. I loved how supportive they were of each other and the communication that they had.

I can't wait to start the Riggins brothers series now after reading about Lena and Stanley.

Thank you Kaylee for the arc of this book.
Profile Image for Sharon Moritz-rosenthal.
2,272 reviews29 followers
July 2, 2024
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.

In previous books in this series, we have met the sons of these two and they had an awesome start, and I was so excited to be able to read where it all started and how.

These were two people who meet in high school and yes that's where we go back to. We see them fall for each other, and we also get to see them start their life together as two penniless kids with a dream. And best of all we get to come along with their journey of life.

The sex scenes were hot but not too hot because after all they are parents. We also get to see their love and their belief in themselves and each other and how they had some struggles and how they worked hard for their love and relationship.

It was a great story that I loved reading about. It only enhanced my love for the whole Riggins family and the series.
Profile Image for Kamila Mykhailiuk.
1,449 reviews12 followers
July 2, 2024
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.

This is the love srory between parents of the Riggins children. Lena has moved to town after her father’s death, starting a new school without any friends. Stanley was chosen to be Lena’s sort of guide for the day, when someone else was unavailable. Stanley was instantly captivated by Lena. He spends entire senior year proving himself and his feelings to Lena and she finally gives in and they start a relationship.

They graduate and start building their lives and careers. We get to know his Stanley build his successful business and how they acquired their forever home. I loved the passion and chemistry between Stanley and Lena. They truly were made for each other.

Overall I loved this book very much. If you loved previous stories in these series and would like to know their parents story then you’re going to love this prequel.
Profile Image for Shelly.
Author 2 books37 followers
July 2, 2024
Stanley Riggins is all about that Riggins magic — and once you read this novella, you will be, too! After reading through each son, I absolutely loved getting to look back at the love story of the amazing parents who created this family.

With each milestone of Lena and Stanley’s life, we get to see glimpses and references back to each book. Kaylee did a wonderful job sneaking those in and made me tear up several times remembering how amazing each story was. This felt like the perfect way to wrap up all of the sons, their wives, and children.

Lena and Stanley’s life is inspiring and to see each step of how it was built gives readers a special treat and encourages others to hold out for that magic of their own. If you’ve read the series, this will make you want to go back and do a re-read. Absolute perfection!
Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,599 reviews78 followers
July 2, 2024
4 star

The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Layer by Layer (Riggins Brothers #1)
Piece by Piece (The Riggins Brothers #2)
Kiss by Kiss (Riggins Brothers #3)
Touch by Touch (Riggins Brothers #4)
Beat by Beat (Riggins Brothers #5)

This is Lena and Stanley’s story. These two meet when she moves to town. He can feel the pull right from the start and makes it his mission to win her heart. These two find happiness and love with each other and work on growing their family. The ups and downs of the relationship is what makes them who they are and forms a bigger and better bond with each day. You get a glimpse of the boy’s personality and in the end, you can see where they learned to love each other and the woman they fell for.

I recommend this book.
Profile Image for Ashley Hampton.
505 reviews22 followers
June 18, 2024
I’m a person who likes to read in chronological order. It helps me keep facts straight especially in a series. I was a little worried and confused at first as to why this author would give us the Riggins boys’ parents story last. Now I get it. Now , I totally get it.

I fell face first into Lena and Stanley’s magical love story. Yes, it was a short one, but I seen it, I felt it, and I am totally in love with it. I loved the assurance, and how this author made love seem so magical. I love how it flowed and how genuine these characters were.

In my opinion, this was the perfect conclusion to this series, and to be honest I wish I could read this series for the first time again. I cannot wait for more from this author. Her words are truly one of a kind.
Profile Image for Brittney.
437 reviews5 followers
July 2, 2024
I loved this novella so much! This was my first book from the Riggins series and I will definitely go back and read the first five books.

This book was pure magic. Stanley and Lena are the parents of the five Riggins brothers. We start their story when they are both in high school. Stanley has always heard his dad talk about the “magic” that instant connection you feel when you find your special someone. He’s never fully believed in it until he meets Lena who’s new to town. Sparks immediately fly and he sets out to prove to Lena that she’s it for him.

I truly fell in love with their story and their journey. The love they have for each other is so strong and so inspiring. They’re so supportive of each other’s achievements and ambitions. It was emotional and beautiful and I couldn’t get enough.
Profile Image for Amanda.
228 reviews10 followers
July 3, 2024
Okay Stanley Riggins… I see you! The patriarch of the family got his story & you can absolutely tell where the Riggins brothers get it from. Papa Riggins for the win! He is just as steamy & sexy as his sons. The way he cares for and goes after his Lena is so touching & heartwarming. Their love is perfection & the most swoon worthy. The absolute best display of what a relationship should be like. It’s no wonder those Riggins men know how to treat their women! They want to make sure they are treated like Queens like their Momma. I also love how Lena brings a calm strength to the relationship. She knows just what to say & do to bring Stanley “back to Earth” when he’s having a moment. They feed off of each other & it’s mesmerizing.
Profile Image for Daisy Nijs.
1,020 reviews15 followers
July 4, 2024
The last book in the series for the Riggins’ brothers, but actually it’s the one where it all starts. I was feeling so emotional while reading this book, thank you Kaylee Ryan for this book.
Stanley and Lena, from the day they meet till the day they have their family. It is such a beautiful and heartwarming story. The magic in this book is real, just like the magic between the two of them. I read this book during my breaks at work, and I was having a really hard time putting it down each time. The time didn’t go fast enough for me to pick up this book again.
I haven’t read all of the brothers’ books yet, but I will do that very soon, because I fell in love with that family from the first moment.
Profile Image for Closet Romance Reader.
1,236 reviews19 followers
July 2, 2024
Gah! Getting back to the Riggins had me so excited! And getting to see them from the beginning, amazing! Breath by Breath was the sixth book in the Riggins Brothers series and can be read as a stand-alone. Be prepared though, it will make you want to read the entire series!! It was sweet, sexy, and full of love!

Stanley met Lena in high school and immediately knew she was his future. They may have married young, but they built their family and business from the ground up. The love they had for each other was all they ever needed!

I loved getting to see their story. It brought everything full circle and showcased the pure love they all had! Such a great book to read when you want all the warm fuzzies! Perfect addition to an amazing series!
Profile Image for Jenny Harris.
4,400 reviews33 followers
July 2, 2024
I received this book with the understanding that I could leave a voluntary and honest review.

In this book we get Lena & Stanley's story. We learn more about the magic that apparently not even Stanley believed in to begin with. Now that he has met his one he not only believes it but wants his forever to start immediately. Lena is new in town and isn't sure what to make of this guy who says he not only is her boyfriend but will be with her all her life. This story will have you falling in love with this family all over again. Once you start you will not want to put it down.

This is another must own by this author. I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
756 reviews9 followers
July 2, 2024
I love Stanley and Lena’s story

Stanley and Lena, the parents of the Riggins brothers, have a wonderful story. I loved Stanley and Lena’s first meeting, and how his history with his father and grandfather taught him the magic of love. Revisiting this family and reading Stanley and Lena’s story has me wanting to re-read the entire Riggins Brothers series. I smiled through this novella and cheered as each son was born.

Kaylee Ryan has a way of pulling you in and immersing you into her world. I love the Riggins family and thoroughly enjoyed reading how it all began. This is a perfect conclusion to a fantastic series.
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,260 reviews53 followers
July 2, 2024
4.5 Stars
This is the book in the Riggins Brothers series I didn't know I needed. We get the story of their parents. We go back to where it all began. This book just made me swoon big time. I see where the Riggins boys get their charm because Stanley is the OG. The way he was there for Lena from the beginning melted my heart. One of the things I loved was how Kaylee Ryan tied in all the Brothers' titles into the story. I loved seeing the boys as little itty bitties. It was so cute!! The epilogue was the perfect note to end this series on. This book gave me all the feels! If you have loved this series as much as I have then you do not want to miss out on this book! A must read!!
Profile Image for A-reader.
1,598 reviews51 followers
July 3, 2024
My reviews always contain spoilers, I write them so I can remember the story.

This is Stanley and Lena’s origin story. You get to see how they met, on Lena’s first day of senior year at a new high school, how Stanley fell instantly in love with her, and the births of each of their sons. Along the way they built Riggins Enterprises and their amazing home.
I love that Stanley was so in love with his Lena and didn’t care who knew it. Lots of sexy times and lots and lots of I love yous.
I loved how with the birth of each son they would say the phrase that would be the title for each son’s book.
This was such a sweet story with no angst only love. I enjoyed it very much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews

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