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The Westmorelands

Breaking Bailey's Rules / Reclaimed by the Rancher

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In New York Times bestselling author Brenda Jackson's novel, a Westmoreland learns that rules are meant to be broken!

Rule number one for Bailey Westmoreland: Never fall for a man who would take her away from her tight-knit family's Colorado home. So why is she following rancher Walker Rafferty all the way to Alaska? Bailey tells herself she owes the sexy loner an apology, and once she gets there, it's only right to stay and help him when he's injured…isn't it? Before long, Bailey realizes home might be where you make it—if Walker is ready to take all she has to offer.

177 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 16, 2015

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754 people want to read

About the author

Brenda Jackson

892 books3,560 followers
In 1994, Brenda Jackson’s first novel, Tonight and Forever, was released. Since then she has had more than 100 novels and novellas published (the first African-American author to accomplish such a feat) and has over 3 million books in print.

A native of Jacksonville, Florida, Brenda is the first African-American author to have a book published by Harlequin Desire and the first African-American romance author to make the New York Times and USA TODAY bestseller lists within the series romance genre.

In 2012, Brenda received the Romance Writers of America’s Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award—one of the highest literary awards a romance author can receive. In 2013, she was recognized by the mayor and the city of Jacksonville as being a Trailblazer in the literary field.

In 2010, she collaborated with Five Alive Films to turn her Truly Everlasting title into a feature film. Brenda’s 2011 novel A Silken Thread is scheduled to be filmed with Debbie Allen attached as director in 2015.

Email Brenda at authorbrendajackson@gmail.com or visit her on her website at brendajackson.net.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
Profile Image for Jennifer Schultheis.
1,316 reviews6 followers
August 18, 2015
Breaking Bailey’s Rules is another excellent addition to the Westmoreland Series. I’ve always wondered what kind of man would win the heart of the youngest female Westmoreland and now I know. I adored both characters, their sizzling attraction to each other, and the feelings I felt while reading.

I adored Bailey. She’s sassy, curses like a sailor, and isn’t afraid to step up to the plate when needed. She also loves her family and where she comes from very much. To me, Walker was a perfect match for her.

Brenda Jackson continues to shine. I won’t spoil anything, but if you’re a fan of the author and have read the previous Westmoreland books, don’t miss out on this one! We’re introduced to the Outlaws, plus Bane makes an appearance….and just wait to hear the bomb he drops on Dillon towards the end.
Profile Image for Tamara.
279 reviews41 followers
November 10, 2015
3.5 Stars! The youngest Denver Westmoreland female finally gets her chance at love.

If you follow the series, there's not much new happening with the exception of the Outlaws discovering that they are in fact Westmoreland's. This is the back story used in getting Bailey and Walker to make a connection. Bailey is her typical opinionated and sometimes filthy mouthed self until she get knocked down by love. Walker is a man filled with past hurts that he hasn't really dealt with, and surprisingly Bailey doesn't push him as much as I thought she would've.

As I've stated in previous reviews, it's always a little tough to rate and review books like this series because it almost feels like you're just catching up with a family member, there's never enough of a new story line to make the book feel "different", but it's absolutely still enjoyable and I will patiently wait for the release of Bane.
26 reviews2 followers
October 27, 2015
First let me say Brenda Jackson writes some of the best romances that just warm your heart. Yes, there is always a handsome man and a beautiful woman, but there is so much more going on between the characters. She always finds a way to make each story intriguing and fulfilling and it’s no difference with this one. There are very touching moments that pull at your heart, fun moments between the two characters where you laugh and say “really”, and then there is the HOT stuff that Mrs. Jackson is known for in all her books. You know when you first see someone and you tell yourself they are cute or handsome, but then you say, I am not interested, but you keep thinking about them and you find a way to keep them around you while you are still telling yourself – I’m not interested. Well, welcome to the world of Bailey and Walker. Sparks ignite, feelings revealed and rules go out the window. Are rules meant to be broken? They do if you want them too.

Pick up your copy of this new Westmoreland Family Novel to discover how Bailey and Walker learn that rules are definitely meant to be broken.
Profile Image for KBeautiful1.
690 reviews67 followers
August 24, 2016
Lord Have Mercy!!!!! What do you say as your coming to the end of the "Westmorelands" era as we all know it!!! I am telling you author Brenda Jackson has been turning the furnace up way high where my Kindle pages have deep singed marks on them LOLL!!!

Bailey Westmoreland is a full grown woman now, when we were first introduced to her in the "Denver Westmorelands" stories in Dillon's story, she was young and as with each release she has grown and matured into a great person who is fiercely loyal to her family. So when the Westmorelands discover that they may have cousins, whose last name are the "Outlaws" everyone is excited but before the Outlaw family agrees to meet with them, they send Walker Rafferty (best friend to Garth Outlaw) and family confidant. Everyone is excited about meeting Walker except for Bailey and being the outspoken one finds it insulting that they don't want to meet them in person. Dillon Westmoreland the oldest of the Denver clan appoints Bailey to welcome Walker by picking him up from the airport and bringing him to meet the family.

Walker Rafferty a Bison farmer, loves Kodiak, Alaska, he has his ranch, his friends and life couldn't be any better. When his best friend Garth asks him to go and meet with the Westmorelands he agrees and only because Garth asked him, and Garth knowing that is the only way Walker would leave Kodiak Island. Walker goes to meet the Westmorelands and is greeted by a spitfire by the name of Bailey which he already got a glimpse of through Facebook. Bailey isn't warmed up to the idea and Walker doesn't have a clue as to why but he's there to do a job and Bailey is easy on the eyes from his estimation. But what Walker wasn't expecting is the explosive and intense attraction that him and Bailey would have towards each other. Although they would prove to have intense moments of anger with one another there was no denying the attraction whatsoever.

But what happens when Walker suddenly leaves the Westmorelands and not stick around for one of the weddings and meet the other Westmorelands? And what happens when they find out it was because of Bailey opening up her mouth one too many times? Now Bailey is desperate to try and fix it and get back in the good graces of Dillon and Ramsey, so Bailey heads to Kodiak, Alaska and arrives on the doorstep of Walker Rafferty. Well these two will either finally work out their differences with each other or forget they ever met but which ever way it rolls, you better believe Bailey and Walker's ride will be one you will not soon forget. The passion and fire between these two are scorching hot, you will definitely be clutching your pearls and looking for your own man in the process.

Oh but how I loved how author Brenda Jackson, snuck in that bombshell and mic drop. My mouth fell to the floor and I was gasping for air LOLLL!!!

Bane's story which is next will wrap up the Westmoreland series. To say I am sad to see it end is an understatement but I do believe that author Brenda Jackson will be getting ready to tell the story of the Outlaws maybe? I will keep you posted.

Well Until My Next Review Ciao Bellas!
Profile Image for Tia.
826 reviews294 followers
December 31, 2016
Mrs. Jackson knows how to draw you right into a story; have a feisty stubborn spoiled character who will challenge and irritate the male interest until someone submits. Bailey and Walkers story was a good one. I love the Westmoreland clan and all the relatives and friends. It always makes for a warm read. I can't wait for the next Westmoreland or Granger novel.

Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Profile Image for Isha Coleman.
8,748 reviews168 followers
October 25, 2015
THE PERFECT GIFT-THE WESTMORELANDS!!!  
 
 
 
READ AND REVIEW
 
AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER!
 
BREAKING BAILEY'S RULES (THE WESTMORELANDS)
BY BRENDA JACKSON
 
Release Date:  November 1, 2015
 
SYNOPSIS 
 
In New York Times bestselling author Brenda Jackson's novel, a Westmoreland learns that rules are meant to be broken! 
 
Rule number one for Bailey Westmoreland: Never fall for a man who would take her away from her tight-knit family's Colorado home. So why is she following rancher Walker Rafferty all the way to Alaska? Bailey tells herself she owes the sexy loner an apology, and once she gets there, it's only right to stay and help him when he's injured…isn't it? Before long, Bailey realizes home might be where you make it—if Walker is ready to takeall she has to offer.
 
 
BUY LINKS
 
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REVIEW:  BREAKING BAILEY'S RULES (THE WESTMORELANDS)
BY BRENDA JACKSON
 
 
Breaking Bailey's Rules by Brenda JacksonMy rating: 5 of 5 starsBrenda Jackson's stories are always provocative, noteworthy and uplifting reads. I have been a fan of hers since I was eighteen and know that every word she writes, every story she creates genuinely means something to her and her many fans around the world. Myself included. Family, friendships and love are focal points in every story she writes. That is one of the things I like most about the Westmorelands. Breaking Bailey's Rules was bittersweet to read because getting to know the Westmorelands of Denver is on the verge of ending. I liked Bailey. With the love and support of her family she has grown up to be her own woman. She speaks her mind and loves her family. What's interesting about Bailey is even though she has plenty of family that she knows can be counted on, she is still looking for a place to call her own. Walker is the complete opposite of Bailey. He's a loner that has been dealt a rough hand by life. He loves hard but grieves hard also. It took many false starts and missteps but Bailey and Walker finally got it right. Knowing that the Denver Westmorelands are winding down saddens me but Ms. Jackson did supply A beacon of light with the Outlaws. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Breaking Bailey's Rules is full of surprises, romance and family. What more could any reader ask for?View all my reviews
 
 

 
AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER!
 
BANE (THE WESTMORELANDS) BY BRENDA JACKSON
 
Release Date:  December 1, 2015
 
SYNOPSIS
 
New York Times bestselling author Brenda Jackson's last Westmoreland bachelor is a navy SEAL on a mission to protect the woman who got away… 
 
After five years, navy SEAL Brisbane Westmoreland is back home on his ranch and ready to reclaim the woman he left behind. But when he tracks her to Dallas, he's in for a shock. 
 
Crystal Newsome isn't ready to forgive Bane for saying he loved her then vanishing from her life. Only now the beautiful chemist needs his protection. As their own irresistible chemistry takes over once again, can Bane keep Crystal safe and convince her they can have the second chance they both deserve?
 
BUY LINKS
 
Amazon   Barnes and Noble  Google Play Books  Harlequin   Ibooks   Kobo  
 
 
REVIEW:   BANE (THE WESTMORELANDS) BY BRENDA JACKSON
 
Bane by Brenda JacksonMy rating: 3.75 of 5 starsFrom the minute I read the first Denver Westmorelands story, I knew I just had to read Bane and Crystal's journey back to each other. Through ever book since Dillon's(YES I OWN THEM ALL) I have tried sometimes in vain to find out little snippets of what was going on with this couple. So imagine how overjoyed I was to discover that their love story was on it's way. Crystal and Bane's reunion was one of surprises, thrills, love and a visit with past familiar faces. I am sad to see the end of another Westmoreland series but who knows what the future holds. I received an ARC of bane in exchange for an honest review. A good end to a wonderful series. View all my reviews
Profile Image for Isha Coleman.
8,748 reviews168 followers
October 1, 2015
Brenda Jackson's stories are always provocative, noteworthy and uplifting reads. I have been a fan of hers since I was eighteen and know that every word she writes, every story she creates genuinely means something to her and her many fans around the world. Myself included. Family, friendships and love are focal points in every story she writes. That is one of the things I like most about the Westmorelands. Breaking Bailey's Rules was bittersweet to read because getting to know the Westmorelands of Denver is on the verge of ending. I liked Bailey. With the love and support of her family she has grown up to be her own woman. She speaks her mind and loves her family. What's interesting about Bailey is even though she has plenty of family that she knows can be counted on, she is still looking for a place to call her own. Walker is the complete opposite of Bailey. He's a loner that has been dealt a rough hand by life. He loves hard but grieves hard also. It took many false starts and missteps but Bailey and Walker finally got it right. Knowing that the Denver Westmorelands are winding down saddens me but Ms. Jackson did supply A beacon of light with the Outlaws. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Breaking Bailey's Rules is full of surprises, romance and family. What more could any reader ask for?
Profile Image for Tamara.
11 reviews3 followers
November 17, 2015
Bailey Westmoreland has grown in to a wonderful and headstrong woman. Being the baby of the family has not always been easy but she has managed to come into her own. She has a set of rules that she is determined to live by!. How do you continue to keep the rules you have had for so many years while at the same time letting someone in? And how does and outgoing say anything she wants to lady deal with a loner who is happy never leaving his land? Only Mrs. Brenda Jackson can take us on a journey into 2 of the coldest places and make us hot!!! You will not be disappointed with the Bailey & Walker story of family, hurt, anger, love and healing!!
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,898 reviews13 followers
November 3, 2015
Not a single grammatical error is the first thing I noted. A great storyline and a very sentimental love story. I'm so glad Bailey matured and found true love with Walker. I really enjoyed this novel and I still want to know what Bart Outlaw is trying to hide? So glad there are more Westmorelands found, that means more stories yayyyyy! Great job Brenda Jackson read it in one day. Thx for the extra story as well. I can hardly wait for Band's story!!!!!
Profile Image for Whit.
3,598 reviews49 followers
August 24, 2016
I really like the settings of this story: Denver, Colorado and Kodiak, Alaska. These super icy places really contrast with the heat between Bailey and Walker. But Walker's wife betrayed him in the worst possible way and robbed him of his son. So there's no way he's allowing Bailey near his heart. Is Bailey tough enough to persuade Walker to change his mind?
Profile Image for Mary.
910 reviews3 followers
November 19, 2015
After getting to know Bailey through all of the Westmoreland stories, her long-awaited story did not disappoint.
Bailey was just as sassy and out spoken but Walker could handle her. This was a very sweet story.
Profile Image for Victoria.
399 reviews55 followers
October 2, 2015
It was very enjoyable..... I love the chemistry between Bailey and Walker
Profile Image for Rob Imes.
119 reviews14 followers
August 14, 2020
BREAKING BAILEY'S RULES by Brenda Jackson was book #29 in the Westmorelands series, published as Harlequin Desire #2407 (Nov. 2015) and I enjoyed it much more than the previous installment. The reason I liked it more may be due to the likability of the main characters. Unlike Aidan in The Secret Affair, the hero Walker Rafferty is a confident but quiet man, not arrogantly manipulating the heroine in order to get his way. Bailey Westmoreland is a feisty and blunt heroine who is able to stick up for herself, at one point saving Walker with her rifle when he is attacked by a bear. As with Aidan, Walker has an interest in the "taste" of the heroine, so the initial sex scenes involve him satisfying her pleasure before his own. This enables the author to prolong the characters' sexual involvement, allowing them to be intimate to keep things "hot" for the reader earlier in the book while saving the actual sex scene for later on.

Another reason I liked this book more than the previous one in the series is that there was less bombardment of family history to distract me, or perhaps I had become more familiar with it now, so that it was less confusing. Walker has been sent by his friend Garth Outlaw to investigate the claim that the Outlaw family is related to the Westmorelands, which leads to Walker falling for Bailey and then Bailey subsequently going to visit Walker at his home in Alaska. There is a typical misunderstanding between the two where each one thinks the other doesn't truly love them, despite the frequent sex they are having together. The story ends by setting up the plot of the next book in the series, concerning the Westmoreland brother named Bane, whose adventurous military lifestyle sounds intriguing. Anyway, either this series grows on the reader the more that they read it, or else I just happened to like this one better than the previous one. The back of the book also contain a short story titled "Reclaimed by the Rancher" by Janice Maynard which involves a misunderstanding between two former lovers that eventually gets straightened out. The short story is a quick read (running 20 chapters, but each chapter is only 2 to 3 pages long) that is fairly forgettable. (If I were rating that on its own, I'd only give it 2 stars.)
Profile Image for Susan.
4,794 reviews123 followers
December 29, 2015
Very good book. Bailey is the youngest of the Denver Westmorelands and deeply attached to her family, to the point where she refuses to consider falling for a man who would take her away from them. That resolve is tested when she meets Walker Rafferty.

In previous Westmoreland books, the family discovered that their grandfather had another brother. As family is so important to them, they have been searching for that brother and his family. They discovered that he had been adopted by a family named Outlaw who run a successful business in Alaska. When the book opens, the Outlaw patriarch has informed his five sons that he wants nothing to do with the Westmoreland's claims. Those sons, however, are not so quick to dismiss the obvious connection and ask their friend Walker to meet with the Westmorelands and see what he thinks.

The first meeting between Bailey and Walker has the sparks flying right away. Bailey is not pleased that some stranger is coming to essentially spy on them and makes her displeasure known. As the youngest in the family, she and her three youngest cousins had been considered hellions when they were younger. She still tends to be blunt in her opinions and Walker rubs her the wrong way. There is also an undeniable attraction between the two of them, demonstrated by a hot kiss that nearly gets out of hand. Bailey is upfront about her rules with men, and that one like Walker, who is tied to his own property in Alaska, would never fit in with her plans.

Both Bailey and Walker have things in their pasts that drive their attitudes toward those of the opposite sex. Bailey has seen many relationships come and go, many in heartbreaking ways, but family is always there for you. She has sworn that no man will tempt her away from her home. Walker was betrayed in the worst way by the woman that he changed his life for, and lost that which was most important to him. Now he is content with his solitary life on his ranch, with a few close friends, and no intention of allowing another woman that kind of power over him.

As the youngest in the family, Bailey is a bit spoiled. She also tends to be outspoken and judgmental. Her attraction to Walker has her somewhat discombobulated, and she finds herself being less than polite to him. One encounter leads to a misunderstanding that angers them both, though Bailey freely admits it when she finds she's wrong and apologizes. A second argument occurs when Bailey makes a request of him that shows that she really doesn't understand him or his motivations. This time he leaves Colorado before she can apologize, and she feels the only thing she can do is follow him to Alaska and make amends.

Walker is not happy when Bailey shows up uninvited at his ranch. He can't get rid of her immediately because of an incoming storm, so he is stuck with her for a few days. The tension continues to build between them, though both are determined to resist. Forced together by circumstances, they begin to get to know each other a bit, but Bailey will be leaving as soon as the storm passes. Then a ranch emergency has them rushing off to rescue a ranch hand. This event is intense and Bailey plays a huge and unexpected part in it. Walker is injured and Bailey is determined to take care of him, keeping her in Alaska for awhile longer.

I loved seeing Bailey fall under the spell of both Alaska and Walker. Though her rough edges are still there (I loved the descriptions of what happens when she loses her temper), there's a bit of maturing that goes on. Walker also begins to realize that though he enjoys his solitude, there is also some loneliness that he doesn't want to admit to. I loved seeing his friend Garth Outlaw calling Walker out on his refusal to own up to his feelings. When Bailey overhears something that makes her feel that Walker's feelings don't match her own, she runs for home, leaving Walker to decide if he cares enough to go after her. I loved seeing his big moment and how he went about making it happen.

There are several things I am looking forward to in future books. First is the last of the Denver Westmorelands, Bane, comes home. It is time for him to go after the woman he loves and has been apart from for years. There have been bits of their story mentioned in previous books, but this one ends with a surprising revelation that should make Bane's story even more interesting.

There is also the new branch on the Westmoreland family tree, The six Outlaw/Westmorelands are puzzled by their father's refusal to admit the connection between the two families. There seems to be some mystery behind it, and they are determined to find out what it is. I loved the little bits we learned about the new family members and I'm really looking forward to finding out more.
Profile Image for Wsb.
149 reviews
July 9, 2019
Another solid read from Brenda Jackson. While things did happen pretty fast between Bailey and Walker I don't feel like it was insta love. Again what bothers me about all of these stories is that lack of communication.

"I'm in love with this person but I'm not going to tell them I'm just going to keep having sex with them and hopefully things will work out without me talking. But now this person is leaving me so I have to chase them and profess my love before it's too late"

That's the formula. Obviously it works because I keep reading.
Profile Image for Natalya | TheIslandReader.
283 reviews11 followers
November 19, 2015
One of my favorite families, the Westmorelands, are back with Breaking Bailey’s Rules. In the latest story, we witness baby girl Bailey fall in love with an Alaskan rancher.

We finally get to briefly meet the Outlaws; the family Rico tracked down that are relatives of the Westmorelands. This Alaskan family is skeptical about meeting the Denver clan and initially respond to an invitation by sending family friend Walker Rafferty to Denver instead. The Outlaws want to make sure the Westmorelands are on the up and up though we know they have nothing to worry about.


Walker doesn’t have an ulterior motive when going to Denver and genuinely just wants to feel out the Westmorelands for his friends. Everyone is looking forward to meeting him and is welcoming, except Bailey. Longtime Westmoreland fans know she is perhaps the most hardheaded out of the bunch. She thrives off of getting under her family’s skin and is perhaps the most outspoken. She is very protective of her family and everyone has to convince her to be on her best behavior while Walker is visiting.

The attraction was instant between Bailey and Walker. However, Bailey put her foot in her mouth a couple times and it wasn’t until she visited him in Alaska that things really started to take off.

Despite Bailey’s missteps and sometimes childishness ( I thought), she was one of my favorite Westmorelands. She was fiercely loyal to her family, ambitious, and had just the right amount of spunk and rebellion in her.

There were many layers to Walker Rafferty, he had a painful past and needed someone like Bailey in his life. There was definitely more than meets the eye with him. Someone needed to show this loner that it was okay to want company every once in a while; Bailey was the right one for the job. Both Walker and Bailey knew quite a bit about pain and they were able to break down each other’s defenses.

Of course, with any Brenda Jackson novel, there were quite a few twists and turns. Walker was very hard headed and Bailey was a bit inconsiderate in the beginning. However, we all know that the turmoil was temporary. Walker Rafferty turned out to be the man that got Bailey to break a few of her longstanding rules.

If you are a fan of the Westmorelands, like I assume some of you are, Breaking Bailey’s Rules was a solid read. The Alaskan backdrop was a new change and I hope we get to read a bit more of it in future books.

New to Brenda Jackson? There’s probably no better way to start than with the Westmoreland saga. While it would be nice to read the previous books, it isn’t necessary in order to enjoy Breaking Bailey’s Rules.

Next up in December is the final Westmoreland hero (Brenda Jackson’s words – not mine) when Bane and Crystal are reunited. While he may be the last of the Denver brood to get his happy ending, something tells me this won’t be the last we see of them. I’m sure we’ll get at least five stories with the Outlaws and with Rico still looking for more family, who knows how many more eligible men and women are out there related to the Westmorelands?
Profile Image for Les Romantiques.
575 reviews20 followers
October 23, 2015
Posted on Les Romantiques - Le forum du site
Reviewed by Fabiola
Review Copy from the Publisher

Breaking Bailey’s Rules is the 30th volume in the Westmorland series from Brenda Jackson, author and series I don’t present anymore. Suffice to say it’s the second to last chapter about these Westmorland cousins. The last volume of this chapter, Bane, will be published in December, and I’ll talk more about it in my review which will be consecrated to it.

The story features Bailey Westmorland and Walker Rafferty. Bailey grew up surrounded by her family, and she always was a bit of a spoiled child. Imagining for a second that she could one day leave her home town is impossible. She wishes to marry a man ready to move in with her on the familial land, in the house she intends to have built. Meanwhile Bailey goes back and forth in her different cousins’ homes.
Walker Rafferty has a quite painful past, he lives in Alaska and doesn’t plan to leave his ranch, for reasons the reader will learn gradually. His friend Garth Outlaw asks him to meet Bailey’s family and they are immediately attracted to each other.

Breaking Bailey’s rules is a classical contemporary romance, with the meeting of the two heroes, the fighting against their attraction, the evolution of their feelings and the happy end. The novel is enlivened by well described sex scenes. And when we close the book, we don’t doubt for a moment of their feelings.
Bailey is a bit raw in her way of expressing herself, but she’s honest and nice. And even if she doesn’t understand that not everyone has grown up like she did, and doesn’t aspire to live surrounded by lots of people, she acknowledges her faults and doesn’t hesitate to apologize. Walker is rather solitary, so he will have some trouble with Bailey’s ideal, and will try to flee. Fortunately Bailey is a Westmorland. LOL.

The secondary characters are always very present without overriding the main love story. We meet the Outlaw, cousins of the Westmorland, who are 6 (5 boys and 1 girl) all single. It’s logical to say they will be the next Brenda Jackson’s heroes. I won’t linger over these cousins because the reader will have enough information about them in Breaking Bailey’s rules. One thing is sure, I’ll be there when their stories are published.

Meanwhile, I leave you to enjoy Breaking Bailey’s rules, which ends on a very very important and unexpected information about Bane, our next hero.
Profile Image for Amaryllis Turman.
59 reviews
October 17, 2015
I received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at my blog The Opinionated Woman's Musings

First, I must say that I think Brenda Jackson is one of my favorite romance authors and that is not just because she writes African-American romance novels. Of all of her different series (she has SEVERAL), the Westmoreland series is the best. She had a plan when she developed this family because there are so many siblings and cousins and everyone gets their story. Just when you think the series is over, the family finds another branch of Westmorelands to keep it going. Seriously, if you have not read any of the Westmoreland series, there are enough books to fill a couple of months’ worth of weekends. It more of a saga than a series :D

Okay now I got that out-of-the-way. Back to the story.

I like Bailey. She may be a little spoiled but that is because she is the youngest of a very tight family where the brothers try to seem chill but are overprotective.

Walker is doing his friend a favor and really likes the Denver Westmoreland guys. He sees the attraction to Bailey as unexpected. Plus his adherence to the “bro code” will not allow him to get physical with their little sister.

Good thing that Bailey knows what she wants and is going to do her best to get it.

Even after reading so many of Jackson’s books, you would think that I would not be surprised by her plot twists. But one of the things that Bailey did in Alaska really surprised me. It had me seeing her with a newfound respect. I went from ambivalent to “This chick is cool!” and “She needs a happy ending!”

While I decided early how much I liked Bailey, I could tell that Walker was being hardheaded. He has a lot of making up to do when he finally realizes that Bailey is the one for him. He does it in grand style. All I can say is that it is good to have friends in high places.

Overall, I loved this book because Bailey’s multi-faceted character added so much the story. If you like the Westmoreland series, this book should definitely be on your list. If you are new to Brenda Jackson, this is a great author and book to add to your list.
Profile Image for Dafort.
613 reviews19 followers
November 10, 2015
CONCEPT
The concept of the story the next installment in the Denver Westmoreland series finds a woman willing to break her own rules for love.

STORY
Rule number one for Bailey Westmoreland: Never fall for a man who would take her away from her tight-knit family's Colorado home. So why is she following rancher Walker Rafferty all the way to Alaska? Bailey tells herself she owes the sexy loner an apology, and once she gets there, it's only right to stay and help him when he's injured…isn't it? Before long, Bailey realizes home might be where you make it—if Walker is ready to take all she has to offer.

CHARACTERS
Bailey Westmoreland has been very independent ever since she was one of the hellions with her cousins causing havoc after their parents’ death. She has been adamant that she would never leave Westmoreland country for anything or anyone, yet when she meets Walker Rafferty, he has her singing a different tune. Bailey is portrayed as the independent, bossy and nosy little sister/cousin of the Denver Westmorelands and when Walker appears on the scene to come and check out the family, she as the outspoken person she is, tells him how she really feels about the visit. Walker Rafferty’s visit to Denver is to gather information but he doesn’t bargain on the little spitfire Bailey, nor the attraction he instantly feels for her. When Bailey finds out Walker’s past and a secret is revealed, Walker cuts his visit short and travels back to Alaska. Bailey, willing to admit she is wrong follows Walker to Alaska to apologize. The chemistry between these two is obvious and it is obvious that Walker was able to make Bailey rethink her rules.

DIALOGUE
The dialogue was appropriate for this story and allowed the story to follow.

STRUCTURE
The structure of the story flowed and engaged the reader. The chemistry between the characters is on point and readers will experience the characters feelings throughout the story.

OVERALL
Breaking Bailey’s Rules was a good read. Readers will see Bailey meet her match with Walker and realizes that he is the one to make her question her rules and even break them. This was a good read.
Profile Image for Tanielle.
Author 0 books38 followers
February 10, 2017
In this one we get a glimpse into the long-lost cousins the family has been slowly tracking down. Not sure what the deal is with their uncle but it seems something is going to come out in the future with why he’s so against being related to the Westmorelands. The Outlaws are skeptical about why the Westmorelands want to meet them so they send a good friend, Walker, down to check them out. I didn’t see the point in that and was hoping that they all made the trip but they sent him instead. Him and Bailey clash and Walker returns home. Bailey ends up spending time with him and they both start developing feeling s. Walker says some things that has Bailey running home but in the end the two work and fix the issues. The ending of the book is what really makes it good though. All this time we’ve heard of Bane and now we actually get his story coming soon. I hope it’s as good as the others.
Profile Image for Shay.
187 reviews9 followers
March 9, 2016
I saw my sister reading this and fell for the guy on the cover... I'd move to Alaska for him! Bailey and Walker are great characters.. They are great together and their relationship is effortless.. Bailey comes from a huge family and decided to go forge her own path rather than stay in the family business.. She's knows what she wants and is going after it... Her attraction to Walker was immediate.. And she fought her feelings.. But she'd always found a reason to have to speak to him.. Which I thought was cute.. Their banter I loved.. Walker was a loner.. Lost his wife and child a few years back and kept to himself ever since.. He lives a basic life but is ok with it.. He's a simple man.. He was unsure about his attraction to Bailey but he went with it... And once they came together it was hot..

What I loved about this book was how well written it was... It was easy to follow and understand.. And I was sucked in... I finished it in day... The author has a way of explaining scenes that paints such a perfect picture in your mind.. I am also a big fan of no curse words in books.. I know all the smut and no curse words.. WHAT!? I feel like it takes away from the book.. There is none (that I remember) in is book.. And I personally loved that.. And the sexy scenes.. Can I have a Walker please!? Tall.. Dark and Handsome cowboy!

I'm going to have to go back and read this series.. There are 31 books so far I doubt I get through the them all but this one was easy to pick up and read without being lost.. Great read!
Profile Image for Judith.
1,226 reviews
October 19, 2015
Brenda Jackson does it for me every time. She has this uncanny ability to keep on writing about family in a way that keeps the main characters sharp and lean while connecting it all together with the wider context of family. So it has been with her Westmoreland Clan and this book is no exception. Bailey is a woman who has watched relationships come and go, mostly go, and mostly in hurtful and heartbreaking ways. Not going to happen to her. And she is more than willing to have a brief encounter with a hunky sexy man, but don't even think about forever. One of Bailey's unbreakable rules. And her whole life is guided by these rules. This book is about the heartbreak two strong people have endured, about their fears and insecurities, about their unwillingness to undergo any further assault to their emotions and both guarding their hearts with inpregnable walls. Yet there is a different set of circumstances waiting for Bailey and when she is out of her comfort zone she also finds that her rules don't always apply. Good book, excellent writing, great story and character development, and another winner for Ms Jackson.
Profile Image for Mychele.
100 reviews30 followers
September 18, 2015
I loved this book!!! Bailey has been one of my favorite Westmoreland's since her character was introduced. Why? Because she reminds me a lot of myself. She's smart, sassy and to the point, but she loves her family more than anything. As you read through the Denver Westmoreland' stories you get glimpses of Bailey and her tough no-nonsense personality which makes you wonder what man has the ability to not only pique her interest but capture her heart.

Brenda did good when she choose Walker for Bailey, he's silent but firm, protective but gentle and lets not forget sexy. Poor Bailey fell head in before she could talk herself out of it and Walker was different. Although the scenario used to get them together has been done before by other authors and Ms. Jackson herself, it felt unique to this book. I strong suggest reading this book and if you haven't read from the beginning of the series to get to know Bailey.

And for those waiting on Bane's story ( Meeeee!!!) Make sure you read the epilogue (wink)
Profile Image for Vondetta Carter.
824 reviews8 followers
November 21, 2015
Wow, this was a tear jerker for me. Bailey who has fought so hard to not get attached met her match in Walker Rafferty. In Rafferty's quest to help his friends the Outlaws, he finds his match. Both main characters have encountered deep loss and hurt. Each has a set of standards they implemented to protect themselves from additional hurt. However, the heat between them is intense. Bailey says whatever she thinks, no matter the consequences. Walker is trying so hard to hold on to his past, he may lose his future.

Their journey has many bumps and bruises but its funny how shooting a grizzly brings the two together. The cliffhanger comes with a call from Bane to locate his lost love...

Ms Jackson, I cried right along with them in the snow at Conner's headstone...thank you for a great read..
Profile Image for Denise Palma.
326 reviews11 followers
November 11, 2015
I was going to give 4 stars then thought about it and no I have to give 5 because like all the others in the Westmoreland series I have loved each and every one! Bailey is my kinda girl who used to be a trouble maker with a potty mouth but now is all grown up and Walker even though he chooses to be a loner he knows how to treat a woman's body (fanning myself in the steamy parts!). This story was about two people that of course didn't want to fall in love but couldn't deny their attraction to each other even when the other made the other mad. I just love the way you wright and put together each story Brenda and I hope we get more books about the Alaskan Outlaws or should I say Westmorelands?? Pretty PLEASE!! :)
Profile Image for DivasoftheSerengeti_Lioness.
566 reviews
November 16, 2015
Mrs. J does it again!!!  This is an excellent read.  When a book has attraction at first sight, it is always a winner in my book.  Bailey was once known as one of the Denver Westmoreland trouble makers.  Well she's grown up and matured into a lovely person.  Walker Rafferty has endured hurt and unimaginable pain in his life.  These two needed each other to be complete.    Their story is wonderful! There is excellent chemistry, great character in interaction, strong willed personalities and love making that is out of this world.  As always, the happy ending makes it worthwhile. Great job Mrs. Jackson and I HIGHLY recommend this read, 5 + stars!  BRAVO!!!!!
Profile Image for Nicole.
179 reviews3 followers
November 16, 2015
Big fan of Brenda Jackson. I've read all of the Westmoreland Series and I can say this one was the most anticipated simply because of how she developed Bailey's character through her other Westmoreland tales. Bailey's story was certainly not a disappointment. Lastly, I have to say that I really can't wait for Bane's story coming soon. The little snapshot of his plans for his one true love, Crystal, created some serious excitement. I was shocked at the one detail Bane mentioned and I won't spoil it here, but if you've been following Mrs. Jackson, you must read this story to find out.
Profile Image for Tanya Mayes.
710 reviews23 followers
November 3, 2015
I love this story. Brenda Jackson did her thing again. When you find love you just have to go for it. What Bailey found was that home is where your heart is and her heart was with Walker. This is a new start for the both of them. This story had my emotions all over the place. My heart went out to Walker as I know Bailey's did. I can't wait to read more. On the edge of my seat for Bane's story and Bailey's new life in Alaska with her new cousins.
Profile Image for Kelly Murphy.
321 reviews
February 12, 2016
OMG it's so sad to see this series coming to an end. But in true Brenda Jackson fashion we are going out with a bang. Walker was definitely the right man for our Bailey. We knew from witnessing her grow through the years that she needed a man who was strong willed and wouldn't take her mess. Although she wrapped walker around her finger, like the rest of the men he balanced it out by making her break her own rules. Excellent job Mrs. Jackson, now bring on BANE.
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