Breaking Barriers

by Nikki A. Lamers

Breaking Barriers by Nikki A. Lamers is a steamy, emotionally charged romance about one unexpected night, a surprise pregnancy, and the slow, breathless unraveling of two guarded hearts.

One night. That’s all it was supposed to be—hot, wild, and over. But when Alex returns months later, pregnant and hiding behind carefully built walls, Declan realizes fate isn’t finished with them yet.

He hasn’t stopped thinking about her. Now that she’s back, he’s not letting go without a fight.

Alex has always kept control. Since losing her mom, she’s depended on her brother Aidan and no one else. Declan threatens all of that. He makes her feel things she doesn’t want to feel—things that could shatter the life she’s worked so hard to protect.

She turns to Aidan for help, hoping to keep her distance. But Declan is relentless. He wants more than a place in their child’s life—he wants her. Every touch, every stolen kiss chips away at her resolve.

And the more she pushes, the harder he pulls.

As past wounds resurface and passions ignite, Alex must cling to the safety of what she’s always known—or risk it all on the one man who just might break through her barriers and show her what love is supposed to feel like.

Breaking Barriers is a heartfelt, spicy romance about healing, trust, and the kind of love that burns through fear—and refuses to be forgotten.

352 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 30, 2025

About the author

I absolutely LOVE to read! One of my favorite things to do is curl up with a good book or create my own. My kids love to join me in creating their own stories too and those are always ones that make me laugh! I enjoy reading all kinds of books, but romance books that have a good story to it are my favorite to both read and write. Also, sharing the books I love with friends over coffee or a book turned movie is something I enjoy when I'm not running from my son's soccer game or to my daughter's dance class. Along with my friends and family, I have fun spending time outdoors, one of the reasons Maine is the setting in my first award-winning novel, "The Unforgettable Summer". Although I grew up in Wisconsin and currently live with my family in New York, we spend time every year in Maine.

Reviews

[tina maisonette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breaking Barriers by Nikki A. Lamers completely wrecked me—in the best way. This is the kind of book that grabs you from page one and refuses to let go. What starts as a steamy one-night stand turns into a whirlwind of emotion, tension, and heartache that had me flipping pages like a woman possessed.

Alex is fierce, guarded, and so heartbreakingly real. Declan? Swoon city. He’s persistent, protective, and just the right amount of cocky. Their chemistry is off the charts, but it’s the slow unraveling of their walls that made this story unforgettable.

Between the surprise pregnancy, the delicious push-and-pull, and the emotional depth, this book delivers everything I want in a romance: spice, feels, and a hero who doesn’t back down. Nikki A. Lamers knocked it out of the park with this one!

If you’re into:
✔️ Second-chance-ish romance
✔️ Broody but soft-hearted heroes
✔️ Heroines who fight like hell to protect themselves
✔️ And enough steam to fog up your Kindle…

[Heather Angeli · Rating 4 out of 5]

What could go wrong with an amazing one night stand? Slipping out to never see him again, Alex thought she had it all figured out. Until she came face to face with Declan at her job. Forced to confront the past, Alex is determined to keep him at arms length even if she wants to jump back in bed with him.

Alex’s character growth is incredible. You can see so many barriers that she has built up in her lifetime that by letting in someone as sweet and caring as Declan is hard for her. Declan is determined to get to know Alex. In every way possible. I wouldn’t mind having a Declan in my life.

Such a great read and the spice was great!

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breaking Barriers follows Declan and Alex, two people carrying the weight of their pasts and trying to figure out what kind of future they deserve. Declan has sacrificed his dreams for family, building walls around himself while trying to find meaning in his work and his life. Alex is fiery, bold, and fiercely independent, but underneath that strength is a woman scarred by her own struggles and wary of letting anyone close. When their lives collide in what begins as a one-night encounter, they’re both unprepared for the connection that sparks. What starts as chemistry soon turns into something deeper, tangled with family ties, secrets, and the need to finally stop running from themselves and each other.

This book left me feeling a lot of things at once. I’ll be honest, at times I wanted to shake both Declan and Alex for being so stubborn, but I also couldn’t look away. The writing pulls you into their heads, showing not only the heat between them but also the doubts and scars they’ve carried for too long. Author Nikki Lamers has a knack for making the banter sharp and funny, then hitting you with a moment of raw vulnerability that catches you off guard. Some of the dialogue feels a little over the top, but in a way, it matches the heightened emotions of two people who’ve lived with walls up for years. I liked how messy and imperfect they were, because it made them feel real.

I liked the push and pull between independence and needing someone. Alex especially jumped off the page for me. Her mix of sass and fragility, the way she covered hurt with boldness, hit close to home. Declan, too, felt achingly human in the way he struggled between being the family protector and admitting he wanted more for himself. The book isn’t shy about showing both their flaws, and that’s what made their eventual growth satisfying. It’s not just a romance. It’s about forgiveness, breaking cycles, and finding the courage to build a life you actually want instead of one you think you’re stuck with.

Breaking Barriers is perfect for readers who want more than just a love story, who want to see characters wrestle with family, identity, and their own fears. If you like strong heroines, protective but flawed heroes, and romance novels that balance heat with heart, this one is worth picking up.

[Elmaret Fourie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Nikki Lamers doesn’t disappoint. Who knew there would be so many deep layers to Alex(a).

It started with a one-night stand, but for Declan, it was so much more. Will he ever find Alex with the violet hair again? For Alex, the feelings she felt were scary, and she had no choice but to move back in with her brother, the only man she trusts, after finding out she is pregnant. Both Alex and Declan got the surprise of their lives when Dec showed up at her brother’s workshop, where she now works. This book definitely took my emotions on a rollercoaster ride. This book also reminds you that there are so many tragic and hurtful things happening in this world, but there are also good people. People who take care of others are there for family and friends and just want to make the world a better place. Breaking Barriers is an easy read but hard to put down once you start.

The only slightly negative I can add is that I wish Dec and Alex’s story had ended in a beautiful wedding, but living happily together with their sweet baby Diana, named after Alex’s deceased mother, is a good second best. 😉Who knows, maybe we do get to attend their wedding in the next book of the series.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The chemistry between Alex and Declan is so strong right from the start. After a steamy one night stand, Alex leaves before Declan wakes up. He can't seem to get the girl with violet hair off of his mind.

Alex ends up pregnant, and not sure what to do. When she finally tells Declan, he is excited for it. A baby with the girl he wants more than anything. Alex on the other hand, has her walls built so high it is hard to penetrate. She has a lot of past trauma, so dealing with that on top of pregnancy hormones, she pushes Declan away.

I loved Declan. He was so calm through it all. (Besides the jealousy haha.) Even when Alex pushed him away, he kept coming back. He was determined to win her over. I loved reading about Alex navigating her past. She was put through so much as such a young age. Her brother was an amazing support system. I loved the ending. It wasn't rushed, and Alex still seemed liked herself, but more carefree. I think they really balanced each other out, and made a great couple.

[Dorte Lodberg Greiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a one night stand ends with a pregnancy.
Alexa (called Alex) has a difficult childhood and does not want to commit in any way, but then she meets Declan, a man who has always put his family and his siblings before everything else... even before his own life and career, sparks fly between the two.

This book is a story about how childhood traumas and experiences can have consequences for one's adult life and how important it is to open up to the person(s) you want in your life.

It is only when Alexa's brother Aidan tells Declan about their family history, and a ghost from the past (Alexa and Adrian's father Dale) appears, that Declan gets a better understanding of who Alexa is.

Without revealing more, I can only say that both Alexa and Declan have to go through so much before we reach the end of the book.

Definitely a high recommendation, but prepare yourself for the book to be glued to you until you have finished reading it

[Lou Li Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back in Genesis Beach for the story of Declan and Alex. For so many years, Declan has been the responsible big brother looking out for his siblings, sacrificing his own dreams for theirs, he is indeed a good man. After a one night stand, he’s been unable to get Alex out of his mind, but Alex had no intention of staying around until she found out she was pregnant. She moves in with her brother who turns out to be connected to Declan through friends. Alex is pretty skittish, she’s had a traumatic childhood and doesn’t trust easily, but now that Declan has found her again, he’s not letting go, of her or the baby! The book is emotional and really draws you in. The chemistry between Declan and Alex is off the charts, they literally can not keep their hands off each other. Declan is all green flags and it was such a doting mmc to Alex. Loved it.

I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own

[Rebecca Cockrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Breaking Barriers is a beautiful story of Declan and Alex. Declan comes from a big loving family, whereas Alex comes from a broken home. Both coming from different walks of life, but they both have something in common. The inability to let themselves fall in love. Declan never found someone who he could share that emotion with. Alex was scared of what would happen if she loved too much. Then they found each other.

The title perfectly describes Declan and Alex’s relationship. Declan worked on breaking the barriers of Alex’s hard wall that she built around her heart. He kept trying even when Alex tried so hard to push him away. Alex broke through Declan protective mentality, to let him know that she can take care of herself.

In the end, Alex found some peace that she needed and allowed herself to truly be able to love.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breaking Barriers Nikki Lamers

This is the 1st book, I’ve read from this author! Won’t be the last!! Absolutely could not put if down! Wonderful story A one night stand ends up being so much more! Declan can’t get her out of his head. Only he doesn’t know where she lives or even her last name.
Alex snuck out before he got up. Now she finds out she’s pregnant.. It’s his. She knows she has to tell him. But will be want her for her or just for the baby? She’s had a very tough childhood and is still having issues. She wants to see the good in Declan, but there’s so many red flag.
Dec is trying to convince her that he and his family will always be there for him. Except the one time she needs him he wasn’t there. How can he make it up to her? This is one of the best books I’ve read this year!

[Josslynn Borders · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading Breaking Barriers. I couldn't put it down. I love Alex and Declan. They fit so well together. I love all the characters, and I love the world-building. I thought that the pacing was really good. It had me hooked from the beginning. I hope to read more from Nikki Lamers soon. I really like her writing. I love that Alex has purple hair, that's so fun! In Chapter 6, I started developing my predictions. I am someone who loves it when I predict something right in stories, so I was incredibly thrilled when I had some correct predictions.

I loved how you got to see Alex and Declan work through their past trauma and develop feelings for each other. I like how they help each other open up.

This book is more for 18+ readers as there is some content that may not be suitable for some readers.

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

An unforgettable night of passion ends up leaving Declan and Alexa (Alex) with more than they bargained for. As the two attempt to navigate moving forward, it’s a minefield of past childhood traumas. Alex was witness to a horrendous crime that left her with deep-seated insecurities, making her distrustful and distant. Declan’s family suffered their own devastation, and he continually goes above and beyond to ensure everyone is taken care of at the risk of himself. With more than a few missteps along the way Declan and Alex have a steep uphill climb as well as giving and taking to finally get to their HEA, as the “two guarded hearts unravel”. Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review her work in exchange for an honest review.

[Shellee · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ // 🌶🌶🌶🌶

First of all, thank you Nikki Lamers and TwistedChaos PR for giving me the chance to ARC read this book.

This book is VERY well written. It's a very good read, but it was not 100% my cup of tea. I just couldn't click with all the characters the way I was hoping for.

However, this book will pull at your heart strings in some parts. Especially, when you're able to see into Alex's past involving her parents and experiences she faced as a child/teen.

I was so glad that Nikki didn't throw a wrench in Declan's heart with Ryder's reappearance though. For a good beat, I was worried he was going to sweep in and steal the girl. But he didn't. However, he's not afraid to if she ever calls, and I love that.

I don't know if there are plans for other characters, but I'd love to see Aiden get his shot at love, and I'd love to see Ryder make ANOTHER reappearance, just not between Alex and Declan. Lol.

It was a good read. Great amount of spice and banter. I'd recommend this book to the right crowd for sure.

[Persis Lassiter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished this book and wow… I was hooked from page one 😭📚

A one-night stand turns into an unexpected pregnancy, and Alexa (Alex) is determined not to commit after a rough childhood. Then comes Declan—family-first, selfless to a fault—and the sparks between them are 🔥.

This story dives deep into how childhood trauma shapes adult life and the power of opening up to someone you love. When Alexa’s brother Aidan shares their past and a ghost from their history (their father, Dale) reappears, everything shifts.

It’s emotional, raw, and full of twists. Alexa and Declan go through so much before the ending, and I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend, but prepare to binge-read until the very last page ❤️✨

[Miss E R Duncan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alex and Declan meet at a bar and spent the night together only for Alex to leave before Declan wakes up in the morning. He can’t seem to get her out of his head and continues to look for her without any success, until he runs into her at the garage where she works. Alex is guarded due to past trauma so when she tells Declan that she is pregnant and he is exited and wants them to be together so can’t seem to trust the idea or let her walls down. This was a well written easy to read book with plenty of chemistry and spice. I loved getting to know the characters and watch them try to open up to each other and build a relationship together

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steamy ,charged and by and large a perfect example of a get out of your head kinda vibe. It needs ALL your attention and it’s one heck of an angst and steamy ride . Just one night? Yeah right! But they’re not done yet. Alex needs to see the bigger picture here ,he’s wanting the whole package which includes the hot mama he fell for Declan just has to try harder to get her onside …maybe one day making her his bride. Who knows . She reaches out to her bro Aiden but keeps her distance too. I was really rooting for these two and that’s a good sign , I thought this book of yours Nikki A Lamers was divine ,great storytelling and storyline compellingly divine!

[Lilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5⭐️
Declan, Declan, Declan, after years of being the responsible brother who sacrifices his dreams for his family….it is finally his turn to fight for his own dream.

His one night with Alex turns into more when their encounters leads to an irrevocable consequence, their baby! When he discovers this, there’s no turning back.

But Alex’s walls are way up high and she guards her heart fiercely. Thank God that Declan is a patient and persistent man, who is willing to work hard at winning her over and breaking down the barriers between them.

[Ashley Serino · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was cute, spicy, and full of emotions.

The character growth for Alex is beautiful. The amount of trauma she went through in the past starts to catch up with her and is thrown in her face. We see how she grows from it and can move forward.

Declan is just the cutest. He's the protector. He wants to be there for everyone and continues to put everyone before himself.

The dynamic between the characters is beautiful. They both really fit together.

I can't wait to read more by Nikki.

[Dina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breaking Barriers by Nikki A. Lamers is a brilliant and emotional romance. I loved it! The story of Alex and Declan pulls you in from the start. What begins as one wild night turns into something deeper, full of passion and vulnerability. The characters felt real, and their chemistry was amazing. I couldn’t stop reading. Highly recommended!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alex thought she had it all figured out until she comes face to face with her one night stand, the one she slipped away from the morning after. Now, Declan is at her work. He wants to know her, she wants to keep him at arms length.

An enjoyable read. I liked how sweet Declan was, and all the barriers she had in place made it hard for her to let him in.

Thank you Nikki for the e-ARC of this story.

[Alyssa Skaggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title of this book fits perfect with the story. Declan came in like a wrecking ball and broke through Alex’s barriers and wore her down. You could feel the struggles and pain in these pages as the story progressed. The author always does an amazing job with writing and tapping into readers minds so we feel each word of her books.

[Kelley wellmeier · Rating 4 out of 5]

He falls first, but she wants nothing more than a one night stand. Slipping out before he wakes never to be found again! Now one month later and Alex is back with some unfinished business. Deciding to move in with her brother and work for him, Alex has some big decisions to make. All of which circle back to Dec, her one night stand!

[Liz Ranne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this! It's Alex & Declan's story & it was awesome! They have a one-night stand with consequences. He's determined to get to know her & be with her; but she doesn't make it easy for him! Loved the spice & the story! Highly recommend this book & author!

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful story full of emotions. I loved the characters and undeniable chemistry. I enjoyed Alex and Declan’s journey as they break barriers, let their guard down to learn to trust, hope and help each other heal. It’s an enjoyable heartfelt story.

[Jules · Rating 4 out of 5]

I honestly was surprised how good this arc was! I wasnt sure at first but gave it a shot and boy am I glad I did. Minus the miscommunication I enjoyed reading Dec and Alex so much and really hoping Aiden falls hard next!

[Charlie Dee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book of Nikki Lamers. Breaking Barriers was a great read! Declan and Alex had AMAZING chemistry from the start. I enjoyed their story unfolding and how Alex dealt with her past trauma to move forward with her life and what she wanted.

[i_hype_romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC.

[Kimberly Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Alex and Declan! The development of the trust was so inspiring to read. Pacing dragged just a bit for me, but I think that was accidental pregnancy done right!

[Anneke Boshoff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this book down. It was just what I needed at the time and I loved every second of it. I would recommend this to everyone. This book just has that perfect feeling.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A romance that shouldn’t have been, will it really last This book will grab you forever and wanting more by this outstanding author. Couldn’t put it down.

[Merrit Townsend (always1morebook) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breaking Barriers is part of the Mending Shattered Hearts Series. Each book is an interconnected standalone that can be read in any order. This is Alex and Declan's story.

Why you will love this book:
-One night stand
-Surprise pregnancy
-Meddling Family
-Deep emotional scars
-Strong and stubborn FMC
-Cinnamon Roll MMC

This story was so much different than I expected. The story starts off pretty spicy with an amazing ONS but things take a turn when Alex becomes pregnant. This is their joinery to their HEA. While their journey is hard, they work through their struggles to try and make everything work. Declan is the epitome of the perfect boyfriend who thinks of everything to help Alex. Alex has walls that need to be breached but with care because that girl will run! I love how Nikki wove these two souls and gave them their HEA...they had to go through some stuff to get there but they made it and it was beautiful to read.