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Receiving the devastating news of his childhood best friend’s untimely death, Brooks's world is turned upside down as he finds he is charged with the task of settling Clay’s final affairs. In doing so, he uncovers a final plea: to look after his friend’s little sister, Cali.

Cali, reeling from her brother’s sudden death, is spiraling in her grief, spending all her time seeking out experiences to numb the pain and silence the fear of being left all alone in the world.

When Brooks tracks her down, their worlds collide.

She resents his intrusion. He is frustrated by what he sees as a self-destructive streak.

Sparks fly as they clash, each unwilling to bend to the other’s will.

But as they spend more time together, old feelings reemerge, and their tension transforms into a different kind of heat. Amidst their growing attraction, unexpected and unsettling truths begin to surface, leaving them to suspect that Clay’s death might not have been a tragic accident after all.

As they try to navigate their intense new feelings, they must also work to uncover the truth behind Clay’s demise. Before the dangers of what brought them together tears them apart…

Unknown Binding

Published June 25, 2024

110 people are currently reading
107 people want to read

About the author

Jessica Gadziala

162 books5,392 followers
Jessica Gadziala is a USA Today bestselling author who lives in rural New Jersey with her parrots, dogs, and an ever-growing collection of houseplants. A lifelong dreamer, she’s been writing stories since childhood and published her first book in 2015. When not at her desk, she’s usually feeding backyard birds, rewatching crime dramas, period pieces, and 90s supernatural TV shows, or adding to her towering stacks of unread books.



You can find her on
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xx

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5 stars
325 (58%)
4 stars
148 (26%)
3 stars
72 (12%)
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9 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Bozena.
1,046 reviews20 followers
June 26, 2024
Yes, this is the 11th book in the series, and yes, I've read and loved all of them.
I love Jessica's books and her gripping stories.

I've been waiting for Brooks' story for a very long time, like I'm always waiting for the next book in this amazing series.
I knew his book would be good, but I'm still surprised at how heartbreaking and tragic his story is.

He's the second in command in the club.
He's the calmest and most organized of the brothers.
He's not the oldest but the most mature in the MC, but that's not difficult in a group of single men and Sully 😂
I can't wait for Sully's book. He's hilarious 🤣

Yes, Brooks is an outlaw biker, but his morals and behavior are like in the military and not a biker club, like he learned from his father, which doesn't amuse his new MC brothers at all 🙄

This is also a best-friend-sister-forbidden romance.
Although the forbidden thing only exists in Brooks’ head 😉
A romance with a heartbreaking story about dealing with grief and the trauma associated with the loss of loved ones.

A perfect romantic, gripping and scorching hot romance.
What do people always say about the quiet guys?
Yes, that definitely applies to Brooks very well 😉 🔥 🥵

If you like hot bikers and exciting, action-packed stories, this book is for you.
Profile Image for Krystin Rowley.
463 reviews6 followers
June 21, 2024
O M G!! I love Brooks!! He and Cali made me feel all squishy inside!!
I love the brothers best friend trope & this one hits the spot, you know the spot..
Profile Image for Lisa.
128 reviews
June 20, 2024
I really enjoyed reading Brooks.  I'm so glad Brooks connected with Cali after years have gone by.  Brooks and Cali being together just feels so right.  I'm curious about the twins and would love to get more of them.
Profile Image for Melisa.
125 reviews
June 19, 2024
So good! Worth the wait. Loved Brooks and Cali! JG knows how to keep you coming back for more. Can’t wait to see what is next for the Henchmen.
392 reviews5 followers
June 26, 2024
Enigmatic Brooks, the MC “headmaster” in charge of corralling the prospects, has to ask the prez for some days off. This is unusual because first, Brooks never takes days off. Second, Brooks is actually shaken – something that the unflappable man never is – because he has just learned that his oldest, best friend who had hadn’t seen for many years has died and asked for Brooks to attend to his affairs. When Brooks starts sorting his friend’s apartment, he discovers some strange clues and a pretty recent note asking him to take care of Cali, the friend’s little sister. Though he hadn’t seen her for years either, Caliana turns out to be not only a true beauty, but a feisty one – total kryptonite to Brooks.

As happens to be the norm for the Henchmen and their women, suspense, intrigue and drama ensue, but in such an intriguing and beguiling manner that even though you expect the drama, you’d never expect it to unfold in the way the ever-brilliant Jessica Gadziala tells this story.
19 reviews
June 26, 2024
so good I wanna cry tears of joy

Few books make me want to cry happy tears. Or cry because something just feels special and significant. This book captures grief and loss and the interconnection of humanity. It also has wonderful banter, humor, and spice. It’s a fun and playful read, but it also has an amazing level of heart and soul that had me tearing up in the best ways. Oh, and all the banter and the references to other Navesink Bank books. That’s one of the best parts, too, and I think I laughed out loud at least once a chapter.

In short, yet again, I can’t recommend enough
Profile Image for Vickie Adkins.
193 reviews13 followers
June 27, 2024
Brooks is Perfect

I adore these trips to Navesink Bank and though I love Golden Glades and Shady Valley and I am looking forward to the new Chapter, the Henchmen MC instalove Navesink Bank is kind of like coming home. When I first started reading MC books, Henchmen were among the first series I read.
Brooks has been quiet about his past but a tragedy brings his past life into focus. Cali has loved Brooks for most of her life. As they deal with old wounds and new threats they begin to find their way to each other. Another great Henchmen - Next Generation book!
14 reviews2 followers
June 26, 2024
Let me start by saying I LOVED this book. I've been waiting for Brooks' book for soooooo long as he's always been the serious and mysterious character in the background. It took me a bit longer than usual to get into the storyline but once it grabbed my attention it did not let go. Cali and Brooks are perfectly matched. I love that we get glimpses of 'A' in every book too!
Profile Image for Cindy.
2,349 reviews172 followers
June 22, 2024
The serious man who overlooks the prospects finally gets his story. An old childhood friend of Brooks has died. They lost touch many years ago but they had been as close as brothers growing up. At his friends request he goes home to clean out his apartment.

What Brooks didn't count on is there being strange clues left in his apartment and running into his sister Cali. Both of these things change Brooks life.

I enjoyed Brooks and Cali's story. Most of it took place outside the club which was a nice change.
Profile Image for Lu Moreno.
61 reviews2 followers
December 18, 2024
I love a good brother's best friend romance... Older protective grumpy I effing love it!
Profile Image for Kodie Mackay.
1,197 reviews68 followers
June 23, 2024
I really do love a little forbidden romance but nothing that gives angsty pants.

Brooks and Cali soothed my little heart with their sweet but equally heart breaking story of love growing amongst grief. I feel like it was so tastefully done given the sensitive timeline and the emotional roller-coaster that is their internal journeys.

Brooks is the nanny of the group. The one who plays babysitter and makes sure no one does anything too stupid. But brooks was always a little question mark. Why didn't he party. What was his deal?.. Oh the sweet responsible man. I felt his grief like my own and his internal battle questioning is own integrity as a friends. The shoulda woulda couldas of it all. It was heart-breaking.
This man is solid though. Good manners. Solid support system. Genuinely cares. He was a crater of emotions hidden in a fine as heck man and it was interesting getting to pull back the layers and take a peak at all that he was underneath. He did not disappoint. Also this mans dirty mouth... He's a giver.. just saying.

Cali is a walking grenade of grief. She's living by the rule that she doesn't know how much time she has left and she's trying to fulfil everything on her bucket list. She's lost everyone in her family and feels alone. She does have good friends and of course brooks come back into the picture. But that at first just didn't fill the whole grief and carved out in her. She was strong, sweet and kind. She also had back bone and wasn't afraid to stand for herself even when she was scared.

I loved these two. I feel like they had a few bumps in the road at first understandably but when they spoke and delt with their own issues.. when they came to terms with the situation.. they were perfection. The perfect match. The chemistry is INSANE. The sweet relationship they had because of their past as well.. I loved it. It was easy to believe them. To love their love and to route for their HEA.

Now Jessie always kills it with the side characters and this of course was absolutely no different. The many personalities that fill the pages. A!!!! my man. Their is so many I want. I cant even choose. I'm just so excited for what's to come next.. So many possibilities.
Profile Image for Bex_Book_Revieux.
812 reviews57 followers
June 27, 2024
Brooks is one of the Second Gen Henchmen by Jessica Gadziala I've been waiting on FOREVER!!

He's in charge of the prospects until he gets a letter, and has to take a break for a little while. He's always been so serious with all the Henchmen, one of the main reasons Fallon likes to leave him in charge, but he really didn't want to have to be the serious ones this time as well.

Finding out that he's been left in charge of his best friends little sister, and Cali isn't taking anything seriously until it's WAY too late. Brooks wants to shake Cali, while at the same time trying to make sure he makes sure he stays plenty far enough away from her.

I loved the back and forth between Cali and Brooks! Cali's independence, and her need to live life at level 10+ all the time! I could see Brooks getting more and more frustrated and drawn in, but trying so hard to keep the promises he thinks he made his best friend.

The suspense of trying to find out what Cali's seeing, and WHO exactly saw her and is trying to get the information from her always leaves me on the edge of my seat. And the sexy times when Cali and Brooks can no longer say no to each other is down right scorching!!

Brooks has been one of my favorite recently by Jessica Gadziala, I always enjoy getting back to the Second Gen Henchmen, and spending time in Navesink Bank!!

*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review *
Profile Image for Debbie.
2,698 reviews49 followers
July 2, 2024
Brooks is the eleventh book in the Henchmen MC Next Generation series by Jessica Gadziala. This is Brooks and Cali’s story.

Since joining the Club, Brooks has always been the more serious member who basically keeps an eye on the prospects. He’s a really good guy and I was thrilled to see him finally have someone special in his life.

Cali is the little sister of Brook’s childhood best friend. Losing her brother made her realize how fast life can pass you by and made her want to live life to its fullest.

The more time Brooks and Cali spent together, the stronger their attraction. Growing up, Cali had always crushed on him, but Brooks was hesitate because of his friendship with her brother. Cali is pretty persuasive and soon their relationship becomes more. They are super cute together! I loved how Brooks helped with Cali’s bucket list and how he also helped her to face her fears. Brooks also makes Cali feel safe and helps her with the loss of her brother and the truth of what happened.

The secondary characters are the club members and Cali’s best friend Sage who add to the story. Sully is still pretty funny and flirty, and I can’t wait until some woman grabs his attention.

Another great book by Jessica Gadziala in the Henchmen world I love.
Profile Image for Krystyn.
161 reviews4 followers
July 11, 2024
We finally get the serious Brooks story!

Brooks was put in charge of the prospects and making sure the clubhouse was in good hands while the OG's and others with families were away. He took the job very seriously. He was the dad figure, rule enforcer, party wrangling badass. Everyone knew he would ensure things wouldn't get too out of hand and people were safe.
Brooks gets a call that takes him away from the club, which is a surprise to all.
He has to say goodbye to a dear friend but finds a mystery along the way.
He reconnects with Cali, which is bumpy but turns into everything he didn't know he needed.
Such a cute story that focuses more on rebuilding relationships and the growing love, with a little bit of drama and action of course. No surprise to anyone, the bikers love a lady that brings some drama!
The tension between Brooks and Cali is HOT and the when they give in, it is fire!!
Profile Image for Carrie.
3,660 reviews36 followers
July 1, 2024
Brooks & Cali

Finally!!! Brooks gets his HEA!

I've quite enjoyed Brooks through the series. He's been hard on the prospects, but throughout the series his care for them has also shined. He's set on making sure they don't get out of hand, while still enjoying club life.

He does something similar with Cali when they first reconnect, recognizing that she needs to do the things she's doing as part of her grieving process. He doesn't try to stop her, but keeps an eye on her for safety.

As they get closer, he plays a more active role in helping her with her list. It's very sweet! They're very sweet - and 🔥🔥🔥, too. Bring in the fan!! 😄

I loved them & their story lots! And unraveling the mystery with them was quite enjoyable. I loved seeing more of Sully & the guys!

Brooks is swoony, Cali is awesome, & Sage is hilarious!

😍😍😍
Profile Image for Debbie.
744 reviews1 follower
November 16, 2024
Brooks

Finally this MMC gets to relax a bit. I liked the moment when he realized he had turned into his drill sergeant dad. This story was one of the ones where the two main characters had known each other since they were kids, and she had always been in love with him.

Favorite lines:

“Come on!” Meadow called as she laid on the buzzer for Sage’s apartment. “We have bad decisions to make that we have to pretend to regret in the morning.”

And

“Where’s Brooks?”
“I believe he went to see a man about a whore.”
“I believe the term is horse,” I said, lips twitching despite my worry about Brooks. “Now why would anyone want to see someone about a horse?” Sully asked.
300 reviews3 followers
June 25, 2024
I wasn't ready for Brooks and Cali! Jessica Gadziala you made me cry! Again!

Mix a grieving stoic man who doesn't believe in his own self-worth with a woman so lost in her own grief that they must help each other find their way back to the light ... and stay alive at the same time. I loved the touch of mystery - a real whodunnit and whydtheydoit - mixed into the story!

It doesn't matter if you enjoy MC romances because the emphasis here is on the love story. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Profile Image for Jojo Reeves.
1,136 reviews21 followers
July 11, 2024
last one

I’m sad I’m out of Henchmen.
Brooks has been a bit of a mystery hasn’t he, turns out his mum died then his dad a year or so later and now his closest friend growing up is dead and left a request for Brooks to deal with his belongings and asks that he watch out for his little sister Cali.
She was his secret crush and he was the love of her life so it’s bound to be explosive. Who knew the quiet man who keeps everyone in line would have such a dirty mouth but I’m here for it
Profile Image for K.
477 reviews14 followers
June 29, 2024
I've been waiting on Brooks forever (at least that's how it feels). I've been curious as to why Brooks has always been the one who'd rather babysit the prospects than have a good time himself. His book gives you insight into why he's like that.

Brooks and Cali had so much chemistry from the moment they met again. This has a small bit of brothers best friend/best friends little sister trope. I devoured this book once I got to actually sit and read it. I really enjoyed Brooks and Calis story.
Profile Image for Michelle M.
700 reviews5 followers
July 1, 2024
Heartbreaking and sweet

Life for Brooks was all about order and guidance of the prospects. A friend from the past becomes a big part of his future in more ways than one. He is saddened and angry he left this friend alone for so long. Of course a woman, his friend’s sister is part of the whole heartbreak but also a big part of his sweet new outlook on life.
118 reviews
July 14, 2024
FRIENDS FOR LIFE

I always think "don't mess with your best friends Sister" is a common theme. I still get drawn in with every Jessica story. This was no different. It was cute. It was also a pull to the heart strings regarding her love and loyalty for her brother. I'm glad I went ahead and got it. Of course, I'm a fan so...
3 reviews
July 15, 2024
Nothing Better

I love your writing style. Something just clicks for me. I see one of your books and know I’m in for a fantastic read. Brooks and Caliana are no different. Seeing Brooks finding his one was PERFECT. I laughed I cried I laughed some more. All your books are perfect to cuddle up with.
Profile Image for Caryn.
2,395 reviews3 followers
July 21, 2024
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

This was another brilliant MC story from Jessica and I loved it! I wasn't sure whether these characters were going to "get together" but, of course, an HEA is always in the stars for her stories. Brooks was totally what I expected but Cali brought out a side of him we haven’t seen before.

Loved it!
Profile Image for Giulia.
26 reviews1 follower
September 15, 2024
Waaaaay better than the last one on the Shady Valley collection.
Has a real Henchmen feel to it!

But, I must say, the Clay plot felt SO disappointing and somethings around it just stayed plot holes… ya know?

Also the sex, was very repetitive… I don’t know, maybe I am growing past the series or is it just not the same - and not as exciting - as it once was?

121 reviews
July 7, 2024
Good

I want to crawl inside this women's mind and stay there for a vacation just like a week or so. Not in a creepy way but more like binge watching my favorite series and nap in between way just saying.
Sweet hot and o so good
Profile Image for Dawn McClure.
491 reviews1 follower
July 7, 2024
Worth the wait

I loved Brooks! I've been waiting for his story for forever. I'm so glad he got his HEA. Cali was his perfect person. She cooled his bossiness down and made him enjoy life more. This was such a great story!
Profile Image for Andrea Gillan.
2,850 reviews3 followers
December 15, 2024
Great read

Brookes is always the silent watcher and making sure that the prospects don't get into trouble. When a sudden death of one of his oldest friends happens his world is turned on its axis.
2,019 reviews24 followers
June 28, 2024
2.5 stars
I didn't like Brooks in the bedroom. That brought it down for me
Profile Image for Kizzy.
1,194 reviews
June 30, 2024
Naar Brooks zijn verhaal was ik wel benieuwd. 👌

Bij de epiloog kon ik niet stoppen met glimlachen.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

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