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The Clifford Brothers #1
Breaking His Rules
Grant
I built my global security empire from nothing. Control and discipline are the only rules I live by. Some might call me ‘intense’. I prefer ‘meticulously prepared for every disaster imaginable'.
Growing up in a group home with my two brothers taught me the only lesson that mattered: never let anyone close enough to hurt you. As a CEO, I don’t improvise. I plan. I command.
When I’m hired to provide security for an engagement party, I expect an easy job.
Instead, I meet a woman who treats my rules like optional suggestions. I’m used to being obeyed. Ruby clearly doesn’t plan on doing that. Not even a little.
She tempts me like no one else ever has. Whenever we’re together, my thoughts drift in dangerous directions. Wanting her becomes an obsession. I want to give her everything. But surrendering control means breaking my own rules. And I’ve never done that before.
Ruby
I love my restaurant, my life, and finding the bright side of just about everything. Hosting my best friend’s engagement party? Easy. Fun. Right up my alley.
What I’m not prepared for is Grant Clifford—and his many, many rules.
He’s a fine specimen of a man. Unfortunately, he also comes with a massive stick lodged firmly up his gorgeous behind. Under that perfectly tailored suit is a man who desperately needs to loosen up. Preferably with me.
The closer I get, the more clearly I see the scars beneath his rigid exterior. And I want to heal them all. But how do I reach a man who refuses to let anyone in?
I built my global security empire from nothing. Control and discipline are the only rules I live by. Some might call me ‘intense’. I prefer ‘meticulously prepared for every disaster imaginable'.
Growing up in a group home with my two brothers taught me the only lesson that mattered: never let anyone close enough to hurt you. As a CEO, I don’t improvise. I plan. I command.
When I’m hired to provide security for an engagement party, I expect an easy job.
Instead, I meet a woman who treats my rules like optional suggestions. I’m used to being obeyed. Ruby clearly doesn’t plan on doing that. Not even a little.
She tempts me like no one else ever has. Whenever we’re together, my thoughts drift in dangerous directions. Wanting her becomes an obsession. I want to give her everything. But surrendering control means breaking my own rules. And I’ve never done that before.
Ruby
I love my restaurant, my life, and finding the bright side of just about everything. Hosting my best friend’s engagement party? Easy. Fun. Right up my alley.
What I’m not prepared for is Grant Clifford—and his many, many rules.
He’s a fine specimen of a man. Unfortunately, he also comes with a massive stick lodged firmly up his gorgeous behind. Under that perfectly tailored suit is a man who desperately needs to loosen up. Preferably with me.
The closer I get, the more clearly I see the scars beneath his rigid exterior. And I want to heal them all. But how do I reach a man who refuses to let anyone in?
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 5, 2026
About the author
Layla Hagen
123 books4,950 followersWelcome! My name is Layla Hagen and I am a Contemporary Romance author.
I fell in love with books when I was nine years old, and my love affair with stories continues even now, many years later.
I write romantic stories and can’t wait to share them with the world.
And I drink coffee. Lots of it, in case the photo didn’t make it obvious enough ;)
I fell in love with books when I was nine years old, and my love affair with stories continues even now, many years later.
I write romantic stories and can’t wait to share them with the world.
And I drink coffee. Lots of it, in case the photo didn’t make it obvious enough ;)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
June 11, 2026
ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
Grant and Ruby are complete opposites not only personality but also upbringing.
Growing up in foster care and also being homeless at times with his siblings wasn't easy. So being protective is second nature. He loves his rules and will never break them, until he meets Ruby. And not only does he have to compromise but man does he fall.
Ruby, she left a steady job to fulfill her passion of owing a restaurant. Is it time consuming? Yes. But she lives her life and has no regrets because she is doing what she loves.
This is book one in the Clifford's Brother series and I really enjoyed this new world and characters.
This was a quick read, and I loved the chemistry between the main characters, and how they fell.
The banter and family dynamics, were fantastic.
As always Layla writes the love these men have for the niece the best ♥️
Can't wait for Heath's book.
Grant and Ruby are complete opposites not only personality but also upbringing.
Growing up in foster care and also being homeless at times with his siblings wasn't easy. So being protective is second nature. He loves his rules and will never break them, until he meets Ruby. And not only does he have to compromise but man does he fall.
Ruby, she left a steady job to fulfill her passion of owing a restaurant. Is it time consuming? Yes. But she lives her life and has no regrets because she is doing what she loves.
This is book one in the Clifford's Brother series and I really enjoyed this new world and characters.
This was a quick read, and I loved the chemistry between the main characters, and how they fell.
The banter and family dynamics, were fantastic.
As always Layla writes the love these men have for the niece the best ♥️
Can't wait for Heath's book.
June 7, 2026
A new series from Layla Hagen! A new family, three brothers. First up is Grant, and he has met his match with Ruby. Mr. in control has met fly by the seat of her pants. She is not going to put up with his crap. These two opposites give us a ride. Will their spark turn into a flame or fizzle out?
A bodyguard and restaurant owner find themselves at odds over an engagement dinner, not the beginning of a joke, but an excellent first book of this new series.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
A bodyguard and restaurant owner find themselves at odds over an engagement dinner, not the beginning of a joke, but an excellent first book of this new series.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
June 19, 2026
Sigh. This book was bland. There was no chemistry between the main characters. And the storyline dragged on even though it is less than 300 pages. I wanted to like the book, but the chemistry and character development between the main characters was so flat.
The premise of the book was also Flat. This guy is a security expert, but he panics over the slightest little inconvenience for security. And of course, the book is written to where the concern about the best friend who is the general manager of a hockey team getting hurt at his engagement party comes true, but I question how somebody would know where to find this guy to hurt him if you were just having a random party.
Read this book or don’t, it’s your call. I don’t know that I will skip the second book, but I am not putting it on my to be read list.
The premise of the book was also Flat. This guy is a security expert, but he panics over the slightest little inconvenience for security. And of course, the book is written to where the concern about the best friend who is the general manager of a hockey team getting hurt at his engagement party comes true, but I question how somebody would know where to find this guy to hurt him if you were just having a random party.
Read this book or don’t, it’s your call. I don’t know that I will skip the second book, but I am not putting it on my to be read list.
Read
June 7, 2026- grumpy (him) x sunshine (her)
- opposites attract
- CEO x restaurant owner
- alpha, protective hero
- he falls first
- 🌶️🌶️.5/5
What happens when the alpha, overprotective, likes-to-be-in-control security company CEO meets the sunshine, free-spirited restaurant owner when his best friend becomes engaged to her best friend? Well, he falls first, of course, and she has him breaking his rules (see what I did there? 🤭).
If you like cute kids, lovable families, ample spice (including multiple mirror scenes) and three brothers who were in foster care that worked hard to change their lives, then check out Breaking His Rules.
- opposites attract
- CEO x restaurant owner
- alpha, protective hero
- he falls first
- 🌶️🌶️.5/5
What happens when the alpha, overprotective, likes-to-be-in-control security company CEO meets the sunshine, free-spirited restaurant owner when his best friend becomes engaged to her best friend? Well, he falls first, of course, and she has him breaking his rules (see what I did there? 🤭).
If you like cute kids, lovable families, ample spice (including multiple mirror scenes) and three brothers who were in foster care that worked hard to change their lives, then check out Breaking His Rules.
May 20, 2026
This was so cuteeeeee
A bodyguard & a restaurant owner cross paths when she is in charge of hosting her best friends engagement dinner & he is wanting to secure it. Such opposites but quite the perfect match!! I had fun listening to the ALC and can’t wait until we get more of the series!
Type: audio
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Grumpy x sunshine
Alpha ceo
Opposites attract
Forced proximity
Protector hero
Slow burn
He falls first
Found family
He takes care of her when she’s sick
A bodyguard & a restaurant owner cross paths when she is in charge of hosting her best friends engagement dinner & he is wanting to secure it. Such opposites but quite the perfect match!! I had fun listening to the ALC and can’t wait until we get more of the series!
Type: audio
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Grumpy x sunshine
Alpha ceo
Opposites attract
Forced proximity
Protector hero
Slow burn
He falls first
Found family
He takes care of her when she’s sick
June 15, 2026
Enjoyable. Grant Clifford is the oldest sibling of Heath and Cameron. They are joint CEO’s in a security firm and he’s tasked with providing security for his best friend’s (Roger) wedding reception. He comes off as a grumpy, surly, stubborn and overly fixated on securing a small neighborhood restaurant. Ruby is best friend to (Daphne) who will be marrying Roger. Ruby owns the fabulous cozy neighborhood restaurant, that the reception is going to be held at- Daphne is insistent with her choice. Ruby is pure sunshine and defies Grant’s ridiculous suggestions at every turn, as she does not understand how security is needed, at such a small venue. Their early interactions are funny and entertaining as Grant is thwarted at every turn. Until, he finally stops fighting and sees Ruby’s sweet, wonderful, and beautiful personality. I loved their fun interactions once he stopped being so surly and really that part of their relationship was fun as well. They played well off of each other and once Grant was in- he went full speed ahead of wooing his lady. It was a sweet romantic read with some sad background of Grant’s life, but the author did not go to deeply into his emotional past. I love a book that has me laughing at the characters antics and this will be a re-read/re-listen when I want to have a moment of fun.
July 6, 2026
3.75 stars
June 10, 2026
Breaking His Rules
When you grow up in the foster care system and are bounced back and forth, your trust doesn't come easily. In business you thrive, cause it's black and white, detailed and structured. Until you meet Ruby, who tests every boundary he has, pushes him to the limit, tests him. This story is about trust, willing to open up your heart, and not be afraid of the unexpected.
When you grow up in the foster care system and are bounced back and forth, your trust doesn't come easily. In business you thrive, cause it's black and white, detailed and structured. Until you meet Ruby, who tests every boundary he has, pushes him to the limit, tests him. This story is about trust, willing to open up your heart, and not be afraid of the unexpected.
Read
September 27, 2026Thoughts:
1. Grant thinks how he spent his first sixteen years in foster care, then a couple pages later we're told Thomas and Sybil adopted the brothers when Grant was fifteen, Heath was twelve, and Cameron was nine. Which is it? Fifteen or sixteen? Also, it's mentioned that he has a few memories of their biological parents, so how old were the brothers when they died?
2. Soooooooooooooo tired of manwhores. (The whore around label was used by Cameron. Later we are told, in Grant's POV, it wasn't that much. That helps, but still.)
1. Grant thinks how he spent his first sixteen years in foster care, then a couple pages later we're told Thomas and Sybil adopted the brothers when Grant was fifteen, Heath was twelve, and Cameron was nine. Which is it? Fifteen or sixteen? Also, it's mentioned that he has a few memories of their biological parents, so how old were the brothers when they died?
2. Soooooooooooooo tired of manwhores. (The whore around label was used by Cameron. Later we are told, in Grant's POV, it wasn't that much. That helps, but still.)
July 12, 2026
4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
4/5 🎙️
This was a sweet little palate cleanser after so much dark romance. No crazy high stakes or insane drama. It is pretty short too, so it was an easy read.
2/5 🌶️
4/5 🎙️
This was a sweet little palate cleanser after so much dark romance. No crazy high stakes or insane drama. It is pretty short too, so it was an easy read.
August 5, 2026
Easy read. Fun story
September 2, 2026
Macho porn attempts at romance ruined by vulgarity.
October 13, 2026
I mean good enough to pass time. A little bit cringy in some parts and it felt so rushed.
September 18, 2026
frustrating immature characters
Someone needs to explain “show don’t tell” to this author. Immature characters, stunted dialogue, forced conflict. I wanted to like the story. I forced myself to finish the book. But it’s just in and. I’ve liked this author in the past. But this book was impossible to get into.
Someone needs to explain “show don’t tell” to this author. Immature characters, stunted dialogue, forced conflict. I wanted to like the story. I forced myself to finish the book. But it’s just in and. I’ve liked this author in the past. But this book was impossible to get into.
June 10, 2026
DNF @ 47%
This was so boring I actually fell asleep. The conflict ended in the first couple of chapters. Where to go from here, nowhere let me tell you. I listened to this on audiobook Savannah Peachwood and Aiden Snow did excellent narration as always.
This was so boring I actually fell asleep. The conflict ended in the first couple of chapters. Where to go from here, nowhere let me tell you. I listened to this on audiobook Savannah Peachwood and Aiden Snow did excellent narration as always.
Review of advance copy
Amazon US / Amazon UK / Amazon CA / Amazon AU / Amazon IT / Amazon FR / Audible & Audible Plus
When Grant tasks himself to secure the venue for his best friend's engagement party, he is very surprised to find that the proprietor of the restaurant slips beneath his skin and he can't shake her. Ruby is unlike most of the women he's associated with - she's sunshiney to his grump, sassy to his serious, and so beautiful that he's flustered around her. But Grant doesn't do relationships or commitment, thanks to a childhood in foster homes until he got lucky and his adoptive parents found him and his brothers. He isn't sure he's good for Ruby, but he can't let her go either.
When Ruby's best friend's fiancé asks his own best friend to come check out her restaurant for security purposes, she immediately sasses him and his grumpy attitude. He's awfully condescending and bossy about her restaurant not being suitable to host their engagement party, and she isn't having that. What she is - is attracted to him, especially when she realizes his grump is just a shield for his emotional scars. Now she's falling hard for her protective, but emotionally rigid guy, and hoping he doesn't break her heart eventually.
Oh Grant...this boy was so into Ruby, and in denial, having never really felt this kind of emotion before. But he took one look at the ray of sunshine who threw him off-kilter, and felt this connection that he didn't recognize, didn't want, but couldn't resist. Ruby and Grant are quite simply adorable, with lots of heart, and sizzling chemistry. I can't wait for Heath, the next Clifford brother to fall in love now.
ARC provided by the author for an honest review.
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July 26, 2026
Cute premise but terrible execution. The plot described in the synopsis was basically resolved in the first couple of chapters. I spent the next 15 chapters bored, waiting on something to happen - a curve, a problem, a reason there are still 200+ pages to go. I found none. They just did regular ish like went bowling and ate dinner.
I also suspect that thing was used that's usually the reason for odd phrasing and repeated words... you know the thing. 😆 No proof so I won't say it but there is a spicy scene where after his very first stroke she says, "This is delicious" out of nowhere. Huh?! The word delicious is also used about 5 different times during that scene.
The characters make a lot of jokes that aren't funny and the banter that is supposed to be cute and flirty is more like awkward and out of place. These MCs have zero chemistry.
They try to make the 9-year-old niece seem like a precocious cute litte kid but they fail and it just seems like the author has never met a kid in her life.
The only good thing about this one is the audiobook narrators - two of my favs and they did their best they could but not even they could make me finish this awful read - DNF'd at 50%.
I also suspect that thing was used that's usually the reason for odd phrasing and repeated words... you know the thing. 😆 No proof so I won't say it but there is a spicy scene where after his very first stroke she says, "This is delicious" out of nowhere. Huh?! The word delicious is also used about 5 different times during that scene.
The characters make a lot of jokes that aren't funny and the banter that is supposed to be cute and flirty is more like awkward and out of place. These MCs have zero chemistry.
They try to make the 9-year-old niece seem like a precocious cute litte kid but they fail and it just seems like the author has never met a kid in her life.
The only good thing about this one is the audiobook narrators - two of my favs and they did their best they could but not even they could make me finish this awful read - DNF'd at 50%.
August 2, 2026
3 stars
3 stars
Pretty meh romance.
He was grumpy and then he was a marshmallow. So stupid in love it was stupid.
She was all work, all controlling of her little domain, but one spicy scene and that’s all she can think about.
In my mind, they were a very meh couple.
The brothers were just ok. Not sure I feel driven to dig into their stories in future books.
3 stars
Pretty meh romance.
He was grumpy and then he was a marshmallow. So stupid in love it was stupid.
She was all work, all controlling of her little domain, but one spicy scene and that’s all she can think about.
In my mind, they were a very meh couple.
The brothers were just ok. Not sure I feel driven to dig into their stories in future books.
June 16, 2026
This book was a wee bit bland and too sweet, I liked the characters but it felt like nothing really happened. A solid low stakes read that isn’t memorable but is fairly enjoyable.
July 22, 2026
Not the worst I’ve read but not good by any means. Not well written, not a good story, very dull. Had to speed up the audiobook to get it over with.
August 9, 2026
Repetitive dialogue. Predictable story. How many times can he say “Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuhhhhhhhhhck”?
June 6, 2026
Layla Hagen has done it again! I absolutely LOVED Breaking His Rules! It is the first book in her new The Clifford Brothers series; Breaking His Rules is a wonderful love story. I was hooked from the first few pages, and I loved every moment on every page of Breaking His Rules it was impossible to put down. Layla Hagen definitely did not disappoint her readers with Breaking His Rules and has once again delivered an incredible story filled with everything that I love in sizzling romance stories. I have discovered that whatever Layla Hagen writes, I will love to read. Breaking His Rules was one of my favorite books that I have read recently. I loved meeting the Clifford family members. Who does not love hot sexy men, who make you swoon, strong females, loving families, and friends, who always support one another, and wonderful characters? Breaking His Rules is the love story of Grant Clifford, co-owner of Clifford Security with his brothers, the most successful security companies in the country and Ruby Ward, owner of The Cozy Place restaurant. Ruby’s best friend, Daphne is engaged to Grant’s best friend, Roger. Daphne wants to have their engagement party at The Cozy Place. Grant is concerned about the security at the restaurant since Roger is the general manager for the most successful hockey team, the Portland Thunderbolts. Grant has a lot of security concerns regarding the restaurant. Daphne has warned Grant off dating her friends. As Ruby and Grant spend time together regarding the security issues, Grant walking Ruby home from work, and especially the date that Grant arranged at them at the cabin things quickly change between them. Conversation between Ruby and Grant flows so easily, with innuendos and playful banter, and Grant constantly flirting and dirty talking to Ruby. I love Ruby and Grant’s relationships with Grant’s niece, Evie. The heart-to-heart conversations that take place in Breaking His Rules are one of my favorite parts of the book, especially when Grant reveals things to Ruby about his childhood that he has usually does not talk to anyone before. Grant and his brothers, Cameron and Heath grew up in the foster care in a group home. As teenagers they were adopted by Sybil and Thomas. I love Ruby and Grant’s love story, and all the plot twists and surprises that changes things for Grant and Ruby, their relationship, and how things quickly heat up. Their relationship is put to the test with the plot twist, but I love everything that Grant does to resolve it. I love everything that Grant does for Ruby, how he is always supporting her, complimenting her and convincing her to take time off from work. Grant and Ruby are willing to make changes in their lives to have a life with one another, because of their love for one another. I love the chat stream between Ruby and Grant and Grant and his brothers, it is one of my favorite parts of the story. I love the perfect ending of Ruby and Grant’s love story, with my favorite part of the story Grant’s proposal to Ruby, and the significance of the engagement ring. Another favorite part of the story is the epilogue that is told from Ruby’s perspective, and the surprise between Grant and Sybil, it was truly a perfect moment. Layla Hagen always manages to create the "perfect" heroine, who is a strong woman on her own, to balance out the sexy, swoon worthy men. Not sure how she does it, but Layla Hagen has once again given her readers another amazing book. She has once again proven that she is an amazing storyteller and continues to be one of my favorite authors to read. I really enjoy how she writes her stories in the first person from the perspective of the main characters. I love knowing what the main characters are thinking and feeling. Breaking His Rules is filled with all those elements that I have come to love and expect in a Layla Hagen love story, especially the poignant and bittersweet moments and the plot twists and surprises that filled this page turner. My favorite moments are the ones that leave me laughing. Layla Hagen creates such wonderful and memorable characters and has once again done this in Breaking His Rules. I love Ruby and Grant’s story and the descriptions of the Seattle settings, the characters, and the family dynamic in Breaking His Rules, the characters feel like family and friends. I enjoy all the interactions among the Clifford brothers; it feels like real family love and makes me laugh at their teasing. I love Ruby’s relationship with Daphne and Sherry. I highly recommend this sizzling romance. I cannot wait to read the other Clifford brothers’ books. Highly recommend this incredible love story. Received an advanced copy from the author.
June 10, 2026
Another start of a good series by Layla. She rarely disappoints and this one was no exception. I feel like this one was similar to her other stuff. I think the stories will revolve more about losing routine and in accepting the unexpected by letting it roll and see where the cards fall. It feels like this series will be about disruptions in a carefully constructed life and embracing it but not without some pushing along the way. This is what I felt like Grant was doing in this book and what it seems Heath will be doing in the next book. The idea of love wasn’t a hard no for him, and it seems that’s how the rest of the brothers will roll too, though with Heath, I feel like there will be more resistance. Anyway, moving on to discuss this book. Grant and Ruby’s story starts off heading in the direction of a 5 rating. It’s your typical grumpy sunshine romance which I do enjoy. It’s an instant attraction for Ruby and Grant but he wasn’t so obvious about it at first. What gets him to finally relax and lose his guard with her is a comment she says to him one night after he walks her home. From there it was no holding back and the two of them jumping into a relationship. The book knew how to drag out the chemistry and make us as the readers feel it. We couldn’t wait for them to finally get together. The description called this a slow burn but it was anything but. I think of a slow burn as withholding the action of sex for a long time, or any discussion really of attraction. This one didn’t do that and for that I was happy. It all happens in the normal time of the book, the 45-50% mark. There was no waiting until the 60-70% mark that some books do. I was really vibing and enjoying the story. I loved how sweet and tender Grant was but also knew when things called to be more intense and passionate. My only annoyance with the book, and why I gave it a 4 instead of the 5 like it was originally heading down is because Grant got to be too clingy. I was also thrown off by his complete 180 of a personality from when you first meet him in the beginning. It seemed like he was an entirely different person, and while it was a good thing, I could have done with a less drastic change. It seemed too sudden and I didn’t know how to take it. I thought he was joking, that’s how off putting it was. I couldn’t take him seriously which is funny because he starts off completely serious in the beginning. I didn’t know if it was because he was caught in a passionate moment with Ruby or if that was the real him. I quickly find out that it is, in fact the real him. It was just hard to wrap my head around. The other part of this story that bothered me and also played a factor in the 4 rating is how closed off Grant was. He didn’t even want to talk about things that were going on between Ruby and himself when things got hard, or even when they were good. His brothers had to corner him about a conversation Ruby had with her best friend, only because her best friend blabbed to her fiancée who is close to the family about it. Even then, he still refused to talk about what happened or what was bothering him. I don’t understand why he wouldn’t embrace what his brothers had to say or seek advice from them. It wouldn’t have made a difference anyway because Grant is going to do what he wants to do but I wish he didn’t brush off their questions and advice the way he did. It’s good to have second opinions on things and plus it helps get things off your chest but Grant wanted nothing from that. He was stubborn and too set in his ways for that. I understand wanting to keep things private but sometimes if things are eating at you, it’s better to talk to someone about it. Grant refused and that was also hard to unpack. Overall, this could have been an excellent book but Grant’s clingyness and refusal to open up, pushed the rating down for me. I didn’t really have any complaints about Ruby. If anything, she was the opposite of Grant and relished asking for help and wasn’t afraid to open up. The only thing she was stubborn for was overworking. It gets me excited for their story to continue, but to also see where the series takes these men.
May 28, 2026
Amazing Story & Narration🎧Engaging & Heartfelt!
Breaking His Rules
The Clifford Brothers, Book 1
By: Layla Hagen
Narrated by: Aiden Snow, Savannah Peachwood
Layla Hagen does it again and pens another amazing novel, and it is a fantastic start to her new “Clifford Brothers” series, starting with the eldest, Grant, who is controlling and intense. This book swept me right in, captivating my attention and tugging at my heartstrings the entire time. Grant and his brothers built a successful security company from the ground up, sought after by some of the most influential clients. When his friend asked him to secure a location for his engagement, he said he would check it out and, taking security seriously, he found the owner of said restaurant, Ruby, to not be very accommodating. Ruby found Grant’s demands to be unreasonable, and was not going along or giving in, and he would have to compromise. A frustrating start to their relationship, but it was admirable that Ruby stood up to him and stood her ground. I loved everything about this wonderful opposites-attract romance, from watching these two getting to know each other and seeing their relationship morph into something so much more, to learning more about the characters, the two leads, Grant and Ruby, and his brothers, all of whom are intriguing. This masterfully crafted, multi-layered story has the perfect balance of drama, angst, witty dialogue and banter, heartwarming moments, heartfelt emotions, and a slow-burn but so worth the wait romance. As always, Hagen’s writing, plot, and world-building are incredible, as are the depth and complexity of the characters, their growth and development. Laya Hagen, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional roller coaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Aiden Snow and Savannah Peachwood, a perfect pairing and cast to bring these characters to life, and they did so with a complete understanding of who they were portraying. Both embodied their characters completely, with Snow nailing it as Grant, a controlling alpha, who softens up and shows his caring and loving side, and Peachwood was just as amazing showcasing Ruby’s personality, from her sunny demeanor to her fierceness and determination. Both were fantastic at performing the roles of the side/secondary characters too, young and old. They set the ideal tone for the story, and their expressive performance conveyed all the characters’ emotions, making you feel them all. Listening to these two voice artists is delightful. They are entertaining storytellers, and their engaging performances have you hooked to the narrative and the story.
Breaking His Rules
The Clifford Brothers, Book 1
By: Layla Hagen
Narrated by: Aiden Snow, Savannah Peachwood
Layla Hagen does it again and pens another amazing novel, and it is a fantastic start to her new “Clifford Brothers” series, starting with the eldest, Grant, who is controlling and intense. This book swept me right in, captivating my attention and tugging at my heartstrings the entire time. Grant and his brothers built a successful security company from the ground up, sought after by some of the most influential clients. When his friend asked him to secure a location for his engagement, he said he would check it out and, taking security seriously, he found the owner of said restaurant, Ruby, to not be very accommodating. Ruby found Grant’s demands to be unreasonable, and was not going along or giving in, and he would have to compromise. A frustrating start to their relationship, but it was admirable that Ruby stood up to him and stood her ground. I loved everything about this wonderful opposites-attract romance, from watching these two getting to know each other and seeing their relationship morph into something so much more, to learning more about the characters, the two leads, Grant and Ruby, and his brothers, all of whom are intriguing. This masterfully crafted, multi-layered story has the perfect balance of drama, angst, witty dialogue and banter, heartwarming moments, heartfelt emotions, and a slow-burn but so worth the wait romance. As always, Hagen’s writing, plot, and world-building are incredible, as are the depth and complexity of the characters, their growth and development. Laya Hagen, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional roller coaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Aiden Snow and Savannah Peachwood, a perfect pairing and cast to bring these characters to life, and they did so with a complete understanding of who they were portraying. Both embodied their characters completely, with Snow nailing it as Grant, a controlling alpha, who softens up and shows his caring and loving side, and Peachwood was just as amazing showcasing Ruby’s personality, from her sunny demeanor to her fierceness and determination. Both were fantastic at performing the roles of the side/secondary characters too, young and old. They set the ideal tone for the story, and their expressive performance conveyed all the characters’ emotions, making you feel them all. Listening to these two voice artists is delightful. They are entertaining storytellers, and their engaging performances have you hooked to the narrative and the story.
June 6, 2026
Breaking His Rules by Layla Hagen is book one in her new series about The Clifford Brothers. We
are introduced to the three brothers who run Clifford Security and this is the romance between the oldest one Grant and restaurant owner, Ruby Ward. These two are complete opposites in every way and their interactions are entertaining and their banter amusing. He is very protective of his brothers and lives by his rules until Ruby makes him break them.
Since the age of eight Grant has been looking out for his brothers because when their parents died in a car crash they ended up in a group home. Life was hard and he protected them the best he could. Having this responsibility has left him with scars and he has built up walls so no-one can get close to him. Their lives changed when they were adopted but he still works hard and is set in his ways. He is very intense, has a gruff exterior and takes his job very seriously.
When his best friend Roger asks him to provide security for his engagement party, he never expects the events that happen. He can’t believe how someone can have such an effect on him and impact his life in such a short period of time. Roger’s fiancee Daphne wants the party held at her best friend’s restaurant but Grant tries to persuade her to change her mind. Roger has a high profile job and Grant thinks the restaurant will be a security nightmare. Grant’s first interaction with Ruby doesn’t go well when he tries to arrange a meeting. He is frustrated because she’s not taking it seriously and reluctantly arranges to meet her to assess the situation.
Ruby left the corporate world and opened The Cosy Place two years ago. She knows she is working too hard but it’s her business and wants it to succeed. She is looking forward to holding the party for Daphne and is annoyed when Grant starts to find issues with her place. She is determined to fight him over things, however, she is conflicted because she finds him extremely handsome. She finds it fun provoking him as he so uptight and leaves no stone unturned.
She gets under his skin which annoys but intrigues him. He is so confused because she
manages to rile him up then leaves him wanting her. He can’t understand what is happening and
has never experienced any like it before. He convinces himself he has to keep going back to check on things but really he wants to spend time with her and all he can think of is kissing her.
Daphne warned him not to get involved with Ruby because he’s not boyfriend material especially for Ruby who is looking to settle down, but he doesn’t listen. She is shocked at the change in him and his uncharacteristic behaviour. Ruby knows he is a womaniser but is excited to see him again after an amazing kiss. She is so funny when tired as has no filter and he surprises himself bantering with her. He decides she is his to protect and take care of so tells her things he’s never spoken about to other people. I liked how he opened up and told her about his life.
We find out a bit about his brothers and their adoptive parents. Heath is a widower with a daughter, Evie who is adorable and so funny. I laughed so much when she tells Grant off for calling Ruby his friend when she catches him kissing her. Cameron, the youngest is very jovial and loves teasing the others. The family dynamics are great and I liked how each brother has his own personality and unique attributes, even though they all look alike. The bowling trip which becomes a family outing instead of a date is so funny when everyone is shocked that they are together.
I found it sweet how their relationship develops and they have such a positive effect on each other. An incident rattles Grant and he realises if anything happened to Ruby he would never forgive himself so is it time to break his rules. Heath Clifford is next in Bending His Rules. He refuses to bring anyone into Evie’s life or his after his heartbreak, as can’t do it again so who is going to be able to change his mind?
are introduced to the three brothers who run Clifford Security and this is the romance between the oldest one Grant and restaurant owner, Ruby Ward. These two are complete opposites in every way and their interactions are entertaining and their banter amusing. He is very protective of his brothers and lives by his rules until Ruby makes him break them.
Since the age of eight Grant has been looking out for his brothers because when their parents died in a car crash they ended up in a group home. Life was hard and he protected them the best he could. Having this responsibility has left him with scars and he has built up walls so no-one can get close to him. Their lives changed when they were adopted but he still works hard and is set in his ways. He is very intense, has a gruff exterior and takes his job very seriously.
When his best friend Roger asks him to provide security for his engagement party, he never expects the events that happen. He can’t believe how someone can have such an effect on him and impact his life in such a short period of time. Roger’s fiancee Daphne wants the party held at her best friend’s restaurant but Grant tries to persuade her to change her mind. Roger has a high profile job and Grant thinks the restaurant will be a security nightmare. Grant’s first interaction with Ruby doesn’t go well when he tries to arrange a meeting. He is frustrated because she’s not taking it seriously and reluctantly arranges to meet her to assess the situation.
Ruby left the corporate world and opened The Cosy Place two years ago. She knows she is working too hard but it’s her business and wants it to succeed. She is looking forward to holding the party for Daphne and is annoyed when Grant starts to find issues with her place. She is determined to fight him over things, however, she is conflicted because she finds him extremely handsome. She finds it fun provoking him as he so uptight and leaves no stone unturned.
She gets under his skin which annoys but intrigues him. He is so confused because she
manages to rile him up then leaves him wanting her. He can’t understand what is happening and
has never experienced any like it before. He convinces himself he has to keep going back to check on things but really he wants to spend time with her and all he can think of is kissing her.
Daphne warned him not to get involved with Ruby because he’s not boyfriend material especially for Ruby who is looking to settle down, but he doesn’t listen. She is shocked at the change in him and his uncharacteristic behaviour. Ruby knows he is a womaniser but is excited to see him again after an amazing kiss. She is so funny when tired as has no filter and he surprises himself bantering with her. He decides she is his to protect and take care of so tells her things he’s never spoken about to other people. I liked how he opened up and told her about his life.
We find out a bit about his brothers and their adoptive parents. Heath is a widower with a daughter, Evie who is adorable and so funny. I laughed so much when she tells Grant off for calling Ruby his friend when she catches him kissing her. Cameron, the youngest is very jovial and loves teasing the others. The family dynamics are great and I liked how each brother has his own personality and unique attributes, even though they all look alike. The bowling trip which becomes a family outing instead of a date is so funny when everyone is shocked that they are together.
I found it sweet how their relationship develops and they have such a positive effect on each other. An incident rattles Grant and he realises if anything happened to Ruby he would never forgive himself so is it time to break his rules. Heath Clifford is next in Bending His Rules. He refuses to bring anyone into Evie’s life or his after his heartbreak, as can’t do it again so who is going to be able to change his mind?
August 1, 2026
It’s been done before …. Better
Breaking His Rules
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🚨-spoilers
🎙️: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
If Aiden Snow read the whole book, I’d give it 5 stars. But Savannah Peach-Wood’s slow pace and what I perceived as inability to manipulate her voice as other characters was annoying. I know I’ve listened to her other work, but it nearly made me give up.
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
It’s been done before. Security expert needs to secure a facility for an event. The romantic female owner of the event space won’t budge. And she’s beautiful with great tits so of course the hunky hyper-vigilant body guard “breaks his rules” for her.
But Layla Hagen doesn’t really spell out what the rules are. Normally, I would applaud this. But the title makes you think there are way more spicy rules that Grant will break for Ruby. Instead, it’s actually a mundane story of how Grant and Ruby go from two frustrating encounters to soul mates in the course of a few weeks.
Smut: 🔥🔥
Ok. Look, I like a good XXX read, but the “sexy time” was basically PG, unless you think the words cock, pussy or clit are racy enough for “R” level. These days you hear little kids use them as insults. 🤦🏻♀️
Anyway- the sexy time is that…. More romantic with random dirty talk spread in. So, if you’re just starting your smut journey, this might be a good book to get your feet wet. If you’re already fully immersed in it, maybe use this one as a reset between hard core material.
Character Development: ⭐️⭐️
It felt 100% forced. Maybe because the entire book is like a trope, but you’re kinda waiting for the “bad thing” to happen. And in this book, it wasn’t even that “bad” but Grant made it seem like the end of the world.
Ruby had no development. I think Hagen wanted Ruby to come across as no longer the lady wanting the picket fence and all the romance, but at the end of the day, it’s still what Grant gave her.
Sooooooo….. honestly, I’m not sure I’d recommend anyone pick this one up (or the remaining two in the series of brothers). But, if you’re out of Audible credits OR your next TBR is on a Libby wait list, this one is a quickie option to drown out the noise!
Breaking His Rules
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🚨-spoilers
🎙️: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
If Aiden Snow read the whole book, I’d give it 5 stars. But Savannah Peach-Wood’s slow pace and what I perceived as inability to manipulate her voice as other characters was annoying. I know I’ve listened to her other work, but it nearly made me give up.
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
It’s been done before. Security expert needs to secure a facility for an event. The romantic female owner of the event space won’t budge. And she’s beautiful with great tits so of course the hunky hyper-vigilant body guard “breaks his rules” for her.
But Layla Hagen doesn’t really spell out what the rules are. Normally, I would applaud this. But the title makes you think there are way more spicy rules that Grant will break for Ruby. Instead, it’s actually a mundane story of how Grant and Ruby go from two frustrating encounters to soul mates in the course of a few weeks.
Smut: 🔥🔥
Ok. Look, I like a good XXX read, but the “sexy time” was basically PG, unless you think the words cock, pussy or clit are racy enough for “R” level. These days you hear little kids use them as insults. 🤦🏻♀️
Anyway- the sexy time is that…. More romantic with random dirty talk spread in. So, if you’re just starting your smut journey, this might be a good book to get your feet wet. If you’re already fully immersed in it, maybe use this one as a reset between hard core material.
Character Development: ⭐️⭐️
It felt 100% forced. Maybe because the entire book is like a trope, but you’re kinda waiting for the “bad thing” to happen. And in this book, it wasn’t even that “bad” but Grant made it seem like the end of the world.
Ruby had no development. I think Hagen wanted Ruby to come across as no longer the lady wanting the picket fence and all the romance, but at the end of the day, it’s still what Grant gave her.
Sooooooo….. honestly, I’m not sure I’d recommend anyone pick this one up (or the remaining two in the series of brothers). But, if you’re out of Audible credits OR your next TBR is on a Libby wait list, this one is a quickie option to drown out the noise!
June 9, 2026
⭐️ 4.75/5
Layla Hagen knows exactly how to pull me into a new series, and this book was the perfect introduction to the Clifford family.
Grant and Ruby couldn't be more different when they first meet. Grant approaches life with logic, structure, and caution, while Ruby leads with passion, determination, and heart. Their first interactions were filled with friction, and I loved every second of it. The tension between them felt natural because neither was willing to back down, yet there was an undeniable attraction simmering beneath the surface.
What impressed me most was Grant's character development. He's not your typical emotionally expressive romance hero. Instead, he's someone who has spent years keeping his feelings locked away and relying on facts rather than emotions. Watching him slowly step outside his comfort zone and learn how to trust someone was one of the strongest aspects of the story.
Ruby was exactly the kind of heroine Grant needed. She challenged him, understood him when others didn't, and never tried to change who he was. Their relationship developed at a pace that felt believable, making every breakthrough and vulnerable moment feel rewarding.
I also loved the family dynamics. The Clifford brothers immediately made me excited for future books, and every scene featuring Evie completely melted my heart. She brought so much warmth and light to the story.
Beyond the romance, I appreciated how the story explored healing, personal growth, and learning to let others in. Grant's journey wasn't always easy, but it felt authentic, and that made the emotional moments hit even harder.
This was a heartfelt, character-driven romance with wonderful chemistry, emotional depth, and a family I'm already eager to revisit.
✨ Tropes:
🤍 Opposites Attract
🤍 Security Expert MMC
🤍 Strong Independent Heroine
🤍 Slow Burn Romance
🤍 Emotional Character Growth
🤍 Protective Hero
🤍 Family-Centered Story
🤍 Small Found Family Moments
🤍 Grumpy x Sunshine Vibes
🤍 Workplace Adjacent Romance
🤍 Forced Collaboration
🤍 First in Series
Layla Hagen knows exactly how to pull me into a new series, and this book was the perfect introduction to the Clifford family.
Grant and Ruby couldn't be more different when they first meet. Grant approaches life with logic, structure, and caution, while Ruby leads with passion, determination, and heart. Their first interactions were filled with friction, and I loved every second of it. The tension between them felt natural because neither was willing to back down, yet there was an undeniable attraction simmering beneath the surface.
What impressed me most was Grant's character development. He's not your typical emotionally expressive romance hero. Instead, he's someone who has spent years keeping his feelings locked away and relying on facts rather than emotions. Watching him slowly step outside his comfort zone and learn how to trust someone was one of the strongest aspects of the story.
Ruby was exactly the kind of heroine Grant needed. She challenged him, understood him when others didn't, and never tried to change who he was. Their relationship developed at a pace that felt believable, making every breakthrough and vulnerable moment feel rewarding.
I also loved the family dynamics. The Clifford brothers immediately made me excited for future books, and every scene featuring Evie completely melted my heart. She brought so much warmth and light to the story.
Beyond the romance, I appreciated how the story explored healing, personal growth, and learning to let others in. Grant's journey wasn't always easy, but it felt authentic, and that made the emotional moments hit even harder.
This was a heartfelt, character-driven romance with wonderful chemistry, emotional depth, and a family I'm already eager to revisit.
✨ Tropes:
🤍 Opposites Attract
🤍 Security Expert MMC
🤍 Strong Independent Heroine
🤍 Slow Burn Romance
🤍 Emotional Character Growth
🤍 Protective Hero
🤍 Family-Centered Story
🤍 Small Found Family Moments
🤍 Grumpy x Sunshine Vibes
🤍 Workplace Adjacent Romance
🤍 Forced Collaboration
🤍 First in Series
June 24, 2026
Layla Hagen's newest series The Clifford Brothers book 1 is Breaking His Rules and is so good, I loved it!! Grant and Ruby are fun with s*xy and steamy banter. Grant is a dirty talker and a H.O.T. co-CEO of Clifford Security who is tasked to plan security for his best friend’s engagement party at Ruby’s restaurant. Wondering if he can keep his hands to himself? Read and/or listen to find out! I think Grant ranks in Layla’s top 3 of dirtiest talkers. Ruby happens to own the restaurant where her best friend wants her engagement party. Here is where the good stuff begins between Grant and Ruby because these two do not agree on how best to set up security for the party. The s*xual tension between these two is so thick you could cut it with a knife! Breaking His Rules has ALL the feels. Will Grant and Ruby find the balance they both want and/or need between both of their work and personal lives? I totally enjoy Layla's writing style, always have, because her characters are so real, lovable, a bit stubborn at times, and just downright fun! Layla is so talented when it comes to writing steamy between-the-sheets scenes and wow does she bring the steam in Breaking His Rules! Now, let’s discuss the audiobook! Aiden Snow and Savannah Peachwood narrate Breaking His Rules. Oh wow, do these two bring their “A” game to this audiobook. Aiden Snow has one of the s*xiest voices EVER!! Savannah Peachwood has a beautiful voice and her performance is just as amazing as her counterpart! These two narrators make a great duo. I could hear the passion and emotion they brought to Grant and Ruby’s characters. These two narrators do an amazing job of bringing the characters to life in your ears. Both narrators are so talented. They bring all the feels especially for those between-the-sheets scenes, 5 jalapenos steamy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love, love, love Ms. Hagen's books - loved every story. I love the characters, the stories, the world building, the emotions, everything. Just fabulous to me.
I had a unexpected experience with this book. This is not a negative, this is actually a super positive. As I was reading, I kept getting frustrated because I couldn't emotionally connect with Grant. I even stopped and went back to the beginning to start over thinking maybe I missed something. However it was just Ms. Hagen doing an amazing job writing this character. I couldn't connect emotionally because Grant struggled to connect to his emotions. The writing is brilliant.
Grant says things like
“It was bizarre that I was talking about this with her.”
“It was unusual for me to take a woman out to a movie with the sole intention of spending the evening with her just so we could get to know each other better. Yet here I was. It made me question everything I knew about myself.” - that one made me think he was a complete jerk but he really isn't.
“My entire life, I’d never had the inclination to do that for anyone”
He is so very analytical about what he is experiencing, it just took me time to realize it was really the character. Not me, not a bad character, just brilliant character development. I was just into the story, feeling the story moment by moment. Not thinking ahead, not drawing conclusions and seeing the where the story was headed, just right in that moment, in that experience, fully in the story. Brilliant!! Loved it!!
I found this story quite compelling and I am very much looking forward to experiencing the other brothers' stories.
I had a unexpected experience with this book. This is not a negative, this is actually a super positive. As I was reading, I kept getting frustrated because I couldn't emotionally connect with Grant. I even stopped and went back to the beginning to start over thinking maybe I missed something. However it was just Ms. Hagen doing an amazing job writing this character. I couldn't connect emotionally because Grant struggled to connect to his emotions. The writing is brilliant.
Grant says things like
“It was bizarre that I was talking about this with her.”
“It was unusual for me to take a woman out to a movie with the sole intention of spending the evening with her just so we could get to know each other better. Yet here I was. It made me question everything I knew about myself.” - that one made me think he was a complete jerk but he really isn't.
“My entire life, I’d never had the inclination to do that for anyone”
He is so very analytical about what he is experiencing, it just took me time to realize it was really the character. Not me, not a bad character, just brilliant character development. I was just into the story, feeling the story moment by moment. Not thinking ahead, not drawing conclusions and seeing the where the story was headed, just right in that moment, in that experience, fully in the story. Brilliant!! Loved it!!
I found this story quite compelling and I am very much looking forward to experiencing the other brothers' stories.
June 9, 2026
meh.. if you have ever read an LH book before, you know the drill. this one is a grumpy/sunshine type. Vanilla, low angst, no ow drama, at times eyeroll inducing from second hand embarassment from the fmc behaviour and inner monologues, the relationship is boring and forced, banter and conversation that doesn't feel natural, its all very one dimensional and tropey... It doesn't make sense to me that these two had never met prior to their best friends engagement, not even once at a party or an event, the best friend literally warns her away because this guy does not do commitment but that's like waving candy in front of kid, challenge accepted because of course this fmc will be the one to change him... you really have to look past all the 5 star arc reviews..
anyways, the male lead is the usual suit wearing, business oriented, ceo type, so nothing new here. He's had a troubled childhood and despite being adopted by a very loving and caring couple he doesn't do commitment, so naturally that means he's a playboy until he meets the fmc, there's just something about her sassy personality that gets to him, not to mention her blonde hair and perfect body, and something about how she's only does commitment.. insert the eye roll here. anyways.. its all very vanilla, low angst because the male lead takes no time to decide to change his ways and not even Aiden Snow with a voice that could read an obituary and make it sound sexy could save this book.. save yourself some time, I wish i did. I'm really glad it was available on audible and didn't have to waste a credit. i had it on in the background while working and doing chores.
anyways, the male lead is the usual suit wearing, business oriented, ceo type, so nothing new here. He's had a troubled childhood and despite being adopted by a very loving and caring couple he doesn't do commitment, so naturally that means he's a playboy until he meets the fmc, there's just something about her sassy personality that gets to him, not to mention her blonde hair and perfect body, and something about how she's only does commitment.. insert the eye roll here. anyways.. its all very vanilla, low angst because the male lead takes no time to decide to change his ways and not even Aiden Snow with a voice that could read an obituary and make it sound sexy could save this book.. save yourself some time, I wish i did. I'm really glad it was available on audible and didn't have to waste a credit. i had it on in the background while working and doing chores.
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