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A thrilling romantic mystery about a child protector hero from the USA Today bestselling author, Janie Crouch. Previously published as Texas Bodyguard: Brax.

A baby in his care… A target on their backs


A skilled security expert and bodyguard, Brax Patterson is ready for anything… except unexpected custody of his reckless half brother’s baby boy. Someone will kill to take young Walker—and silence his resourceful new nanny, Tessa Mahoney. With her help, Brax is breaking all the rules to keep them safe. But is Brax and Tessa’s undeniable connection enough to combat the secrets threatening their survival?

Discover more action-packed stories in the San Antonio Security series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following order:
Critical Strike
Edge of Danger
Two Steps Ahead

Kindle Edition

First published March 2, 2023

205 people are currently reading
105 people want to read

About the author

Janie Crouch

235 books2,020 followers
USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author Janie Crouch writes what she loves to read: passionate romantic suspense.

After a lifetime on the East Coast—and a six-year stint in Germany due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military—Janie has settled into her dream home in Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. She loves engaging in all sorts of adventures (triathlons! 200-mile relay races! mountain treks!), traveling, and surviving life with four kids.

Heroes exist. Let a Janie Crouch book prove it to you.

Check out Janie's updates and more on her website at http://www.janiecrouch.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
Profile Image for Anita.
2,609 reviews216 followers
January 12, 2024
Stupid, stupid, stupid. The hero is stupid, the heroine is stupid, and the baddies are all stupid. I had to keep checking to make sure that this piece of dribble was actually written by one of my favorite authors, Janie Crouch. Unfortunately, it is, which is quite unbelievable.
Profile Image for Jewlsbookblog.
2,209 reviews74 followers
March 19, 2023
What’s a girl to do when she sees her favorite author’s book on sale a week early at the store?! Buy it and devour it of course!

Brax has a great job working security with the best set of siblings a guy could ask for. The last thing he’s expecting is for his poor excuse of a half brother to show up and dump a nephew Brax knew nothing about on his doorstep and then disappear. Everyone in the family pitches in to help him with baby Walker, so when he thinks the new nanny has arrived, Brax is thrilled. But who is she really?

Tessa has learned life is not a box of chocolates, but a difficult road sometimes filled with unsavory people. Her ex is one of them, but losing custody of her son because of him? That loss hits hard. Worse, the guys her ex made angry are hassling her to find him. Getting a call out of the blue about her son Walker from his uncle she didn’t know about has Tessa jumping at the chance to see her son and maybe find potential safety. Yet, how does she unpack a suitcase of lies once she realizes Brax really is a good guy?

This story kept me vested in all the little twists, hoping that Brax and Tessa could find a way to be together, Walker would keep his new found extended family, and the bad guys would definitely get their just desserts! Did Janie deliver all the above with a bit of extra?! Of course! Another great entry in this series, Brax and Tessa’s book was a fantastic read! Now Brax’s brother, Chance, and their office assistant Maci…sparks are flying all around those two-can’t wait!! I’m also wondering who Weston will be caught by…
Profile Image for Marie.
4,986 reviews52 followers
March 2, 2023
A gift?

Brax wasn't expecting Walker, but to then get Tessa too? Together they are everything he didn't know he needed but cannot imagine being without. I love seeing the smooth talking, charming Brax at a loss for words and stumbling through conversations like a teenager with a crush.
He may not have been looking but he has seen enough in his life to know when you find 'it' you grab hold tight and never let go, you protect your soul mate with everything you have.
I love the Patterson's, they may not be family by blood but they are family in every way that counts.
Profile Image for Tracy Quoka.
332 reviews2 followers
March 24, 2023
Four boys were adopted by two loving parents, all when they were in their early teens. These boys bounced through the foster system before the Pattersons adopted them. They learned how to love, they also became very close. In adulthood they started a security company.
This is the second installment, but can be read as a stand alone. Brax has a half brother, who he really doesn't consider his brother, not like the 3 boys he was raise with as they have his back. Out of no where Robert shows up and drops off a baby to Brax, promising to be back by the time he runs out of diapers. Wrong.
By chance, Brax finds a phone number in the diaper bag who leads him to Tessa Mahoney, a young lady that knew how to calm baby Walker's cries. She passes herself off as his nanny, after all Robert told Brax the mother had died. She's got a few issues, being chased by someone looking for Robert. But she also endears herself to Brax.
It's a harlequin intrigue, so of course its a HEA. But I don't like to give spoilers. I will say that it was another on the edge of your seat ride that Janie Crouch is so good at writing. Two more to come out in the series and I can't wait for them.
I received this as an ARC for a voluntary and honest review
Profile Image for Tanja OMGReads.
2,456 reviews56 followers
March 24, 2023
Another quick and easy read. It's time for Brax to find his HEA. Like his brother before him, he's convinced that love isn't in the cards for him. He's living his bachelor life when his step brother leaves him with his son.

Tessa is trying to survive. She's determined not to let life get her down. When Brax calls her, she sees the call for what it is - a life saver. She is back in the baby's life and she will do anything, not to be a part of him. But the double danger that is coming for her and Brax threatens to break up the fragile happiness that they found together. So the motivation is high for both of them to do what ever it takes, so they end up winners in the end.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews63 followers
March 28, 2023
This was a delightfully twisty plot that kept me guessing from the word “go”. I’d already started falling in love with the Patterson brothers in the first book, so it didn’t take me very long to fall the rest of the way in love with Brax. And my heart immediately went out to Tessa. She’s a fierce survivor doing her best to handle the terrible situation she’s suddenly caught in. I loved these two together and I adored the way everyone rallied around baby Walker. Now, I can’t wait to read about the next Patterson brother to find his Forever.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
Profile Image for Christine Jalili.
2,175 reviews44 followers
March 24, 2023
This is such a fantastic book, I couldn’t stop reading. This book kept me on edge. Brax was left with an infant. I felt for Tessa immediately, as she’s now homeless and her ex stole her baby. There’s so much that happens, as Brax deals with getting a drug cartel put away and keeping Tessa and her son Walker safe. I loved feeling so much and loved Brax’s family and how they accepted Tessa and Walker. The ending was great and loved their happy ever after. I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy and I highly recommend this book.
1,356 reviews
March 24, 2023
Book 2 of the San Antonio Security. I thought Book 1 with Luke and Claire was super. This was even better -- Brax and Tessa and Baby Walker. Playful and emotional moments, friendship and romance and family. I need to quit starting Janie Crouch's books in the evenings (but what's a little sleep when you have an exciting read. Bravo!

I received a free copy of this book via BookFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,471 reviews6 followers
March 23, 2023
5 stars
LOVED Texas Bodyguard Brax!
I reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for Jessie.
256 reviews4 followers
March 29, 2023
Texas Bodyguard: Brax is the second book in the San Antonio Security series and it is a standalone. It’s the protector romance story of how Brax Patterson and Tessa Mahoney found their happily ever after. This book could also fall into the tropes of forced proximity, age gap, and small town romance. For those who want to be in the know and understand all the references in the book, I recommend reading the first book in the series, Texas Bodyguard: Luke. For those who opted not to read the first book in the series before reading this one, here is a little bit of background on the series. San Antonio Security is a security firm run by the Patterson brothers, who specialize as private investigators. The four brothers were adopted into the same family after they all spent time in the foster care system. This series tells the story of each brother, their journey to find love, and how they devote their lives to protect each other and the ones they love. Also in the beginning of each book, there is a glossary of important characters in the book, which is helpful in following along with the book without wondering who the heck everyone is.

Brax Patterson is one of the four boys that were adopted by Clinton and Sheila Patterson and from that day on, his life was changed for the better. He got everything he could ever have wanted and despite his painful past, he has lived his life filled with purpose but missing the peace and something else in his life. It took one night to turn his world upside down when his half brother shows up at his doorstep and in need of a favor. With his past dealings with his blood relative, he knows how to best handle him and the favor that he seems to think Robert is asking of him. When he shows up with his nephew, Brax is one, shocked that Robert has a son, and two, knows that without a doubt that Robert is hiding something and how much trouble he was in. Little did he know that his life would be forever changed after that night.

Tessa Mahoney hasn’t had the easiest life and has experienced tragic losses in her life. After a phone call from a stranger, she finds out the where Walker is- giving her a little relief to know that someone has him other than his father. One night after work, she comes home to her apartment is disarray and the frightening phone call she received from someone looking for Robert, she knows the two are related and that she needs to leave town. She finds her way to Brax’s front door and agrees to help him out with Walker and the rest is history. As time goes on, trouble for her brews and ends up wrecking havoc in her life and in Brax’s. But once the cat is out of the bag, Tessa can relax a little and realizes what she wants with her life and hopes that it includes those she has spent her time with lately. Who knew that one phone call could have changed her life?

For the first time Brax laid eyes on Tessa, he felt himself drawn to her and the need to help her overwhelmed him. It was the same for Tessa and because of Brax’s differences from Robert that her feelings and thoughts towards him were more romantic and lasting. Playing house together and being bonded through Walker allowed the two of them to think about what they want with their lives and dream about a future they never saw before. Being able to share their lives with each other at the end of the day without really intending to, made them realize how lonely they both were and how unfulfilled their lives were despite their jobs and responsibilites. They gave each other what they didn’t know they needed- like two halves making up a whole. It made my heart so happy to see the moment when the two of them realize how they feel about each other. Sometimes bad things happen to good people and this happened to both Brax and Tessa. And it was because of those bad things that these two found each other and found their happily ever after.

I am excited about reading Weston and Chance’s boos! Weston’s book comes out in July and Chance’s comes out in August. The summer can’t come soon enough!

I highly recommend this series and all the books in the author’s back list so check out her website for a list of them. This book has what you love and expect out of a Janie Crouch book just in a shorter version. You get all the thrills, the chase, the mystery/suspense, the love story, and a happily ever after all in one. I am loving the dedications of the books in this series so far!! As an adopted child myself, I love how this series is about a family who isn’t bonded by blood and doesn’t look the same just like my family. I love how the author and I are bonded by this connection and that is only part of the reason why I love her books. So go and one click this book or borrow on KU because you won’t regret it! It’s the perfect book to read and get lost in.
Profile Image for Susan.
4,794 reviews123 followers
March 24, 2023
Whew! Another gripping tale from the pen (keyboard?) of Janie Crouch. Like the book before this one (Texas Bodyguard: Luke), this one opens with Brax's introduction to the Patterson family. My heart ached for the boy and everything he'd been through in his short life. He's wary of the couple wanting to take him home with them, fully expecting his time there won't last.

When next we see him, Brax is pondering how his life turned out - from living on the streets at age twelve to owning a security company with his three brothers. They are of different races but have each other's backs, unlike Brax's feckless half-brother Robert. Robert shows up at Brax's house one night with a story of an emergency and drops off his baby boy. Brax is shocked but not surprised when Robert disappears and later has guardianship papers delivered to him. I had to laugh at Brax's first few days with little Walker - it had a Three Men and a Baby vibe. Brax thinks he's died and gone to heaven when he finds a phone number in the diaper bag that he believes belongs to Walker's nanny.

When we first see Tessa, she's caught in Robert's mess. The men who are after him believe that she knows where he is. After trashing her apartment, the next step is threats to her life. Tessa barely makes it out of her apartment ahead of trouble and realizes her only option is to go to Robert's brother. She knows nothing about him other than their brief phone conversation. When she shows up at his office, Brax assumes she's the nanny and asks no further questions.

I ached for Tessa, who would do anything to have her son back in her arms. Initially wary of Brax, she doesn't tell him the truth about who she is or the trouble she is in. I loved watching her settle in as Walker's "nanny" and smiled at her happiness in being reunited with him. Seeing how she and Brax connected and the unexpected contentment he found with his pseudo-family was sweet. But that peace doesn't last long.

The twists and turns that followed kept me on the edge of my seat. Brax isn't happy when he discovers Tessa's lies but believes the truth when he hears it. Complicating matters, Brax is due to testify against a local cartel leader who is determined to ensure that he doesn't live long enough to do so. As attacks from both sides escalate, Brax and his brothers work to find a solution. The final confrontation is a nail-biter with a twist no one saw coming. The resolution was excellent, and hopefully, everyone gets what they deserve!

I loved the development of the relationship between Brax and Tessa. Brax is protective of her from the moment they meet, sensing that she is in trouble. Tessa is wary of him, having been burned too often to trust easily. Simmering in the background are sparks of attraction neither is ready to deal with immediately. I loved seeing them grow closer over the next few weeks. Brax is adorable when we see him interact with Walker, which makes it easier for Tessa to trust him. But it takes nearly losing each other for them to admit their feelings. I loved the ending and seeing the Patterson family all together. There is so much love, and there is always room for more.
544 reviews2 followers
March 26, 2023
Rescued from life on the street as a child, Brax knows how lucky he was to have been adopted by a loving couple. His adoptive brothers and parents have become his true family, teaching him loyalty and love. When his long-lost brother appears and leaves his son with Brax, at first he's not sure how he will cope with his two-month old nephew. When Tessa appears in the office, Brax mistakenly thinks she's been sent by the nanny service. Little does he know that Tessa is being threatened by someone after the baby's father and that she is actually the baby's mother.

Tessa experienced the traumatic loss of her parents and has been struggling to support herself. Lonely, she trusts the wrong man and bears his child. When he steals her son away from her, she's beside herself. Her baby daddy is not the caring man he seemed to be. He's in debt with the wrong people and they're coming after Tessa to try to find him to force him to make good on the debt.
When she shows up in San Antonio and is given the chance to reconnect with her son, she jumps on it. Immediately attracted to the kind and protective Brax, she's stunned when she realizes that her feelings are returned. The more she gets to know him, the more she likes him. He's good, honorable and dedicated to the safety of her and her son. He's so different from any man she's met before.

Brax and his brothers at San Antonio Security seem too good to be true. They are kind and protective not only of her son, but the new 'nanny' as well. She's terrified that when it's found out that she's actually the baby's biological mother, that they will turn their backs on her. Unfortunately, trouble follows her to San Antonio, forcing her hand. She learns what Brax and the rest of the Patterson brothers are really about. Rather than turn her away, they resolve themselves to protect her and help her regain legal custody of her son.

The trouble following Tessa is just one of the challenges Brax and Tessa will face. While fighting to get the bad guys put away, their relationship intensifies. What started as attraction evolves into something much deeper.

Brax is the man every woman wants to meet at least once in their lifetime. He's kind, caring, protective and honorable. Having faced a rough upbringing early in his life, he's actually come through it stronger and better than could be expected. Once he finds that person who fills in the gaps in his life, he is determined to protect her and her son with his life. Tessa has been through a lot and while she is a bit tentative at times and often has the impulse to run, she is much stronger than she believes herself to be. She will do anything for her son, even at the cost of her own safety. Such a great female lead.

The story moves at a good pace, with several mysteries layered across the romance elements of the story. The twists and intrigue in the story will keep the reader engaged and the intensity of the romance adds an intimate element to the story. The various themes are well-balanced throughout the book, with a satisfying wrap up of the mysteries and an HEA for the lead characters.

Four stars for this suspenseful romance.

This is an honest, voluntary review of an ARC of the story.
3,066 reviews
March 29, 2023
Wonderful action filled read that’s characters are simply amazing, you’ll love every moment of this read

Brax had been homeless and, on the run, when he had been offered a home by a couple that were unable to have children and had no interest in adopting babies, they knew older children needed help, a home and people that genuinely cared.

Now years on Brax and his three adopted brothers all now Patterson’s had started up their own security firm and they recalled their past lives and the wonderful couple that had raised them. They now were sure that whenever they could they did everything possible to help the clients they were working for, always trying to ensure that they helped them as much as humanly possible.

Brax’s half brother Robert had suddenly decided that he was going to pay him a visit and leave his three month old son Walker with him as he dealt with a problem his last words had been that “he would be back before the Diapers ran out”. This had been a lie he had been gone for months after telling Brax that Walker’s mother was dead and that he had made him his legal guardian.

As Brax believed that he was pulling out his hair unable to sooth the crying Walker they had found Tessa’s phone number in the nappy bag and when they spoke with Tessa, she had been able to help and advise how to sooth and comfort Walker.

When Tessa turns up at Brax’s office he had immediately been totally attracted to he, he loved the way he cared for Walker and watching her singing for him, and rocking and loving him and then every night she had been creeping out into the alley at the back of the building and sleeping there until she returned to caring for Walker every day and hiding her huge secret.

I guarantee that you will be blown away by the intrigue and the four brothers as they came together and cared for each other and their new nephew Walker who they would never allow to end up in a home, he would always have a family that love and cared for him.

I guarantee that you will be totally blown away by this amazing book, it is simply amazing to read about all the characters and the action and threats and drama in these amazing pages.

I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
Profile Image for Donna .
54 reviews3 followers
April 4, 2023
Wow, such an exciting story. Twists, turns, excitement, heart-grabbing turmoil, and lots of action! The second book in the Texas Bodyguard series, Brax is one of the 4 adopted brothers of Sheila and Clinton Patterson. The peacekeeper of the four who always comes in to soften the room when tempers flare, whether it is with his brothers or any situation that arises in their business, and their business is security. At times the brothers must testify about things they come upon that aren’t exactly legal, or might be questionable, or might even be to put cartel kings away. That’s also something Brax is scheduled to do, stay alive so he can testify against Prince Riviera and put him away.

Brax was adopted when he was 12 and is now 31. A couple of years ago he found out he had a biological half-brother… deadbeat, “trouble walking” kind of guy. So he doesn’t have much communication with him as they were raised very differently. Suddenly appears this adopted brother, Robert, with an infant in tow who deposits the infant, Walker to “stay” a few days with Uncle Brax. Screaming infant and no experience, Brax quickly sets out to find a nanny and finds a girl named Tessa who used to care for Walker before. Tessa quiets Walker and is hired immediately.

Tessa, a young naïve girl, works a couple of jobs to make ends meet and comes home one night to find her place ransacked. She has also been duped by Robert, who took their son from her. Now she finds someone is after her and she doesn’t know what they want. Tessa is now on the run for her life, and finds her son and a place to hide with Brax.

Janie Crouch is a great storyteller, laying out the characters with enough backstory to get started and fill in the blanks as you go, then throw in a twist and turn to keep everyone guessing. Great read, hard to put down. Can’t wait for the next brother.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the authors via BookFunnel. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Disclaimer Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
56 reviews4 followers
March 26, 2023
Texas Bodyguard: Brax is the second installment in the San Antonio Security series. The story starts off with Brax Patterson's half brother, Robert, showing up with his son. Brax is shocked to learn he has a nephew but even more shocked when Robert disappears leaving the baby, Walker, behind. A few days pass with no signs of Robert, then Brax receives legal documents declaring him Walker's guardian. He doesn't know the first thing about caring for a baby but he is determined his nephew will not be placed in the foster care system and face the same horrors he did as a child. He ends up hiring a lady named Tessa to care for Walker, believing her to be the employee of a nanny service. He has no idea she is actually Walkers biological mother, whom he believes is dead. Tessa is also on the run from a man named Jakob Hawkins, who is searching for Robert. Tessa lost custody when Robert tricked CPS into believing she was an unfit parent. She'd love to take Walker and run but she knows she wouldn't get far with no money and the fact his uncle helps run a security business, she knows they would find her quickly. She decides to play the part of the hired nanny just so she can be near her son. She's also hoping Brax will be able to locate Robert and put an end to Hawkins stalking and tormenting her.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish, I could not wait to see what would happen next. I found myself questioning so many things. Would Tessa come clean to Brax about who she really is and her connection to Walker, would Brax be able to forgive her for the secrets she's keeping and would they be able to find Robert before Hawkins finds Tessa? I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves suspense, you will not be disappointed. I can't wait to see what Janie has in store for us with the next two books in the series.
Profile Image for Miki.
1,015 reviews41 followers
March 24, 2023
Oh this was one was so moving!!! I loved it! Brax had a difficult past like all the boys the Pattersons rescued and adopted but he stayed a kind soul, a protector. He is the calmest of the boy.
When suddenly his half brother with whom he has nearly no contact come and drop a baby on his lap before disappearing. ...Brax may not be ready but he would never allow such a tiny innocent soul to be sent into the system and suffer like he did.

Tessa made a mistake when going out with Robert , one she regrets deeply even if she does not regret what resulted from it: Walker. When after loosing custody of her son she is called by Brax to get help for Walker she can't believe her luck....until she discover how deeply in danger Robert's problems got ehr. Desesperate, hoping to get back her son she goes to San Antonio, never expecting to find Brax, robert's brother, to be so different and so good with Walker. Afraid to says the truth , she is taking care of walker as his nanny ...except that danger follow her.

When danger come from two fronts, to protect, Walker Brax and Tessa will need to work together with teh rest of the Patterson, and it must start with trust building as their feeling are also growing.

Oh so many twists, i absolutely hated Robert and i do hope he will suffer greatly. Brax and Tessa are so sweet, i like all the Patterson really but those are so cute. Lot of action, lot of different ennemies, sweet romance and and HEA

This is a great romance suspense for sure and it can be read as stand alone without trouble. To be recommended
Profile Image for Jo-Anne.
1,749 reviews38 followers
August 10, 2023
I am in love with the Patterson brothers! Brax and Tessa's story is heartbreaking and yet so perfect. Brax was surprised when his half-brother, Robert visited bringing his baby son with him. They didn't see each other often so Brax didn't even know he had a baby. Robert was not a good person, certainly not dependable so when Robert left the baby with Brax saying he'd be back in a few days, he wasn't surprised when that did not happen.

It was funny to see a big, strong, alpha male trying to handle a baby. He had his hands full between the baby and dodging men trying to kill him. He knew living with him was not safe for Walker, but like his brothers, Brax went through hell as a child. Until the Pattersons adopted him, so he could never let his nephew go into the foster system.

When Tessa arrived as a nanny, he felt like his prayers had been answered. She was amazing with his nephew, and he really liked her.

I loved the development of the relationship between Brax and Tessa. Brax was protective of her from the moment they met, sensing that she was in trouble. Tessa was wary of him, having been burned too often to trust easily. Simmering in the background were sparks of attraction neither was ready to deal with. I loved seeing them grow closer over the next few weeks. Brax was adorable when we see him interact with Walker, which makes it easier for Tessa to trust him. But it takes nearly losing each other for them to admit their feelings. I loved the ending and seeing the Patterson family all together. There is so much love, and there is always room for more.
2,478 reviews20 followers
March 28, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "" TEXAS BODYGUARD: BRAX" I thoroughly enjoy this series with terrific characters that make for a very addicting read with suspense, intrigue, danger, lies, angst, secrets, betrayal, kidnapping, steam, twist & surprises that have you turning the pages.
Brax Patterson & his three brothers Weston, Chance & Luke own & run San Antonio Security with office manager Maci Ford, the guys are skilled security experts, bodyguards & investigators but he never expected his 1/2 brother Robert to show up at his door with a baby in tow his 41/2 mo. old son Walker
Brax finds a number in diaper bag he calls a woman answers its Tessa Mahoney who knows alot about caring for Walker, but she seemed afraid, concerned about him what has Robert hit him into.
Tessa Mahoney's being followed by the men who are after Robert broken into she run to the only person who can help Brax Patterson but she has secrets, someone wants Walker & to silence her.
I definitely recommend to get this incredible well written story you can't put down Tessa shows up at Brax's office desperate for help at first he thinks she new nanny for hire, will they help her, will she tell them her secret, Tessa & Brax are attracted to one another from the start, will they get a HEA, so much happens it's must read you just can't miss.
I'm so looking forward to the next book in this series "Texas Bodyguard: Weston" can't come soon enough. AWESOME HEARTFELT ROMANCE 🖤 🖤
1,235 reviews10 followers
April 2, 2023
Texas Bodyguard: Brax is the second book set within the San Antonio Security series, but could be read as a standalone. When Brax gets a visit from his half-brother, he’s shocked when he gets full custody of a baby, and thankful for how easy his relationship with the nanny is going. But Tessa isn’t everything she appears to be, and when secrets and danger keep compiling, will they be able to sort out the truth while keeping each other alive?

Oh wow, what a great way to continue this series and I really liked this take on a surprise baby trope. Brax and Tessa had so much chemistry from the very beginning, and with how much drama, tension, and danger was twisted within the beginning chapters, I was hooked right from the very beginning and needed to know what would happen next! Tessa was so courageous to face everything that was thrown her way, and I really enjoyed her character. She had a lot of lies and secrets, but for really good reasons, and trust was not easy to be earned from her. Brax learned from a young age to show the world a happy face and easy attitude, but I liked that he was able to be serious and follow through with his own promises. They both had a lot to unpack and a lot of hurdles to jump over to find their happily ever after, but I loved every second of their journey. I have enjoyed this series so far and look forward to seeing what the next brother’s adventures will bring!
Profile Image for Melanie Marnell.
4,197 reviews32 followers
March 23, 2023
Janie Crouch gave us a treat with Texas Bodyguard; Brax. She loads this book up with an Insta-Daddy, a ne'er-do-well brother, a nanny with secrets, drug cartels and a bodyguard with a vendetta andall these make for interesting reading. Then there's a budding relationship that could be easily sidetracked because of hidden truths. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.

Brax Patterson is a warrior in every sense of the word; honed body, lethal skills, strategist and cunning yet he is almost brought to his knees when a four month old infant is dumped on him...literally. his ne'er-do-well brother, Robert, has something up his sleeve but pinning him down is nearly impossible especially after he disappears. Tessa Maloney's life was turned upside by one man. Now there are people looking for him and destroying Tessa's life in the process. Being hired as Brax's nanny is a godsend. But she's got secrets...big ones. Brax has his own set of problems outside of caring for his nephew. The head a drug cartel is trying to stop Brax from testifying againt him. Ultimely the Patterson brothers work a plan that keep all parties safe but you know what they say...the best laid plans etc. It's a tense, dramatic and dangerous climax that will have you on the edge of your seat but the result is finally an HEA for Brax and Tessa

Profile Image for Heather Wray.
592 reviews3 followers
March 28, 2023
Brax like all his adopted brothers got lucky when they were fostered then adopted by the Pattersons. He loves working with the guys at their San Antonio Security company. However he also likes his solitude and nothing better than going home to his empty house. The last thing he expects is to have his unknown baby nephew dumped on him by his estranged half-brother. Knowing nothing about babies, he’s not coping very well, but no way is Walker going into the system, no way.

Tessa Mahoney doesn’t have much choice than to run. He ex has landed her in a mess of trouble, and she’s got no one to help. He even took her son from her, and she has no way to get him back. Now posing as a nanny she not only helps Brax, but gets to have her son close too. She’s afraid to come lean on her identity though because of her son. However, the men after her ex have again located her and she has no choice but to reveal everything, or possibly lose everything.

It will take all his brothers some quick thinking, not only to sort out those who would harm Walker and Tessa, but also bring to justice the cartel boss looking to permanently silence Brax.

Another great read from Janie Crouch, you just can’t help feeling for those clueless men when the baby arrives. Looking forward to Weston’s story next.

I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,300 reviews115 followers
April 2, 2023
Texas Bodyguard: Brax by Janie Crouch
San Antoio Security #2

Action-packed romantic suspense ~ kept me reading quickly to see how it would all work out.

What I liked:
* Tessa: strong, resilient, lonely, mistreated by a so-called boyfriend, hard-working, responsible, alone, threatened in more ways than one, needs a safe harbor and might find one with Brax
* Brax: one of four adopted by the Pattersons, protective, strong, caring, takes on his half-brother’s son and wants the best for him, responsible, drawn to Tessa
* Walker: infant in question that doesn’t have much page-time but is central to the story
* The complexity of the story with both main characters in danger and wondering how the issues would be resolved
* Getting to see all of the Patterson family again and finding out how they were doing
* The plot, pacing, and writing
* That there were no loose ends and all was resolved by the end of the story
* Knowing that there are two more books in the series to look forward to

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about how many evil people there are in the world and what they are willing to do

Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars
Profile Image for Brandalyn Curry.
111 reviews3 followers
March 24, 2023
Ooooohhhh boy these Patterson Brothers are something else, they scream protective alpha hero male especially when it comes to the ones they love. Brax is the charming one of the bunch always cracking jokes and keeping everyone calm and lightening the mood. However when his “half brother” shows his face at his home his joking mood flies out the window. Especially when he’s given the responsibility of keeping his nephew alive and knowing absolutely nothing about kids let alone babies. Fate though has an interesting way of making things happen for the best. Tessa is lost since losing her family and barely treading water. But when a random guy calls her to question about a child by the name of Walker she’s almost at a loss for words. These two along with the rest of the Patterson’s will stop at nothing to protect their loved ones, family isn’t always blood. Janie Crouch kept me glued to this book from the first page and had me running the gambit of emotions. I would be so frustrated with the stubbornness of some characters and wanting to scream at them to get it together. Then I would be on the edge of my seat with suspense and then the sweetness of the romance and love. This series is so good and definitely worth the read!!!
Profile Image for Elaine .
1,015 reviews64 followers
March 30, 2023
Texas bodyguard brax.
Book 2.

Mystery romance.


Brax.
Was adopted as a young boy, Skittish and always ready to run not knowing if he was going to find that forever home.. Until the special parents appeared one day... Just like magic..



In this story brax half brother, Robert whom he hasn't seen for years. Shows up on his doorstep leaves him a gift he had no idea about.. A mystery that unravels and with the gift more mystery..
Sometimes extended family comes with things that you weren't expecting.. And sometimes you find things through these extended family members you weren't looking for. Sometimes love sometimes issues that can cause more drama...

Tessa,

Just a nanny taking care of a little one. But will she turn out to be more than just a nanny in brax life..
Will Tessa and bracks become more than just employee. And friends.. Well definitely check out this story I really enjoyed it it's a book 2.
However these books could be read as standalones... I am looking forward to the third book in the series..

These stories keep you intrigued completely..
And I am a new reader for this author. This is my sixth book for her and I have read them over the last couple of months and loved each Book.
196 reviews3 followers
March 24, 2023
Brax works at San Antonio Security as a bodyguard and finds himself responsibility for his infant nephew, Walker. His half brother just left Walker at Brax's house saying he would be back in a few weeks and then disappears. Brax meets Tessa thinking she is from a nanny service and hires her to watch Walker when he is at work. He soon realizes that his half brother has made some dangerous enemies and they will do anything to find him. He now has to protect his nephew and the nanny. He knows the enemies are getting closer and that all three of them are great danger. Tessa loves watching Walker for Brax but she is not telling him the whole truth about herself. Soon she will have to make some difficult decisions concerning a child she loves and the man she has grown close to. When the half brother finally shows back up things only get worse.

This is a great suspenseful story that will keep you on your toes with the twists and turns between the characters. Brax was a great addition to the series and I look forward to the next book.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed; all opinions expressed are my own.

Profile Image for Nicole.
25 reviews
March 28, 2023
Brax is part of the 4 brothers that come from an adoptive family. These guys are not brothers by birth but you wouldn’t know it other than they happen to not be the same race but in their family color of skin is never seen or made a thing. These guys were taught to love bone deep by their amazing adoptive parents.
They now own San Antonio Security together and one day Brax’s 1/2 blood brother shows up and literally dumps a baby on him and lies about the babies mom. You will find out how that comes about but the nanny in this book who cares for the baby has trouble of her own that she tries to hide it from Brax and his brothers. It ends up that Brax’s has trouble of his own and the two of them need to reveal their secrets in order to stay safe. Along the way Brax and the nanny fall for each other and he can’t live without her and the baby as a family of 3. Brax and his brothers come up with a master plan to try to wrap up all the bad guys in the story, but of course there is always a hitch. Read Texas Bodyguard Brax: San Antonio Security 2 to find out how it all plays out. Another great book by these authors!
104 reviews3 followers
March 31, 2023
This is book 2 in the San Antonio Security series and as much as I loved Luke in book 1, I think I love Brax even more. This book just grabs you by the throat from the 1st page and doesn't let you go. At first I honestly wasn't sure about Brax. I though he was a little uptight. But wow as the pages flew I changed my mind fast. He is such a strong and protective guy and yet has such a sweet side. Yum. Then there is Tessa who I like right away. She was put through so much. I'm not sure I could have handled it as well as her. She was both strong and vulnerable. A perfect FMC. This book has all the feels. A nice slow build romance. A suspense that leaves you on the edge of your seat. Villains you want to smack around. And some wonderful funny moments, like when Brax first brings his infant nephew to his office and his brothers react. This is what I would describe as a medium length book but the story and characters are so well constructed that you feel as if you are reading something twice as long. But that being said I also felt like it was over too fast and I wanted more and more. I can't wait to see what book 3 brings to the brothers!
Profile Image for Lexee Toste.
2,814 reviews19 followers
April 1, 2023
I really enjoyed this story! This is the second book but can be read as a standalone. We get to see Brax find his love in this story and it comes with a baby. Walker gets dropped off on his doorstep from his half brother who then disappears and Brax is left trying to ignite out how to care for the baby. He ends up calling Tessa after finding her number in the diaper bag who gives him helpful advice to get Walker to stop crying. She has nothing left after thugs come after her due to Brax’s half brother and decides to come check on the baby in person. Brax thinks she is a lifesaver and happy to have her around. But they have people coming after them from more than one place and Tessa is holding a lot of secrets. There is action and intrigue in this story and I really enjoyed it. We get to see things develop between our two as they get to know each other and try not to cross boundaries as Tessa is the nanny and she doesn’t want to risk not being around Walker. This story was easy to read and flowed well. I’m excited to see what is coming next for the Patterson brothers.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
2,456 reviews41 followers
March 24, 2023
When his half-brother, Robert, shows up at his door, Brax Patterson had no idea that he would be taking care of a baby. His brother left before morning, leaving baby Walker behind. Tessa Mahoney has been working to save money to try to find her baby. Finding Tessa’s number with the baby’s supplies, Brax calls her looking for his brother. When her apartment is trashed and she is threatened, she now knows where Walker is and flees to San Antonio. The men want to find Robert, the father of her baby, but she has no idea where he is. Believing Tessa is a nanny he hired to care for Walker, he finds himself attracted to her. The attraction is mutual as she recognizes that Brax, unlike Robert, is an honorable man. He and his three adopted brothers are stretched to the limit as Brax will soon testify against the Riviera gang. Can he stay alive long enough to testify and keep Tessa and Walker safe? An exciting sequel to Luke and Claire’s story. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation, from the author, for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
83 reviews
March 24, 2023
At 12 years old Brax was adopted by an amazing couple; who also adopted 3 other boys. All 4 boys are amazingly close and open a security agency together. One day Brax's biological half brother Robert came to him for help with his baby boy Walker, who he then left with Brax; someone who had no experience with children.
Finding a name in the diaper bag Brax calls Tessa who he thinks is a nanny; but she's actually Walker's mother. She's in danger because of Robert and goes to Brax posing as a nanny. Being reunited with her baby boy is all Tessa ever wanted; and she finally feels safe from the men who were after her.
Turns out not only is there danger because of things Robert has done but also because Brax is a witness against the head of a cartel. Even though things around them are crazy; Tessa and Brax grow closer; falling harder for each other.
Book one was about Luke and Claire; which was a fantastic story. Now book 2 is about Brax and Tessa which is just as amazing. Can't wait to read book 3 and 4.
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