Dead Heat

Crossroads Queen #7

by Annabel Chase

It isn’t easy being the liminal deity of a multirealm crossroads, as Lorelei Clay can attest. There are the typical issues, of course, like a wayward god stumbling into Wild Acres, and then there are the more pressing ones…

Like an incubus who wakes up with a mysterious mark on his chest and a timer on his life.

And the demon with an urgent message for Kane.

And the mysterious flying monsters with vengeance in their hearts that threaten the peace and tranquility of Fairhaven.

And last, but definitely not least, a visit from The Corporation’s latest minion, who might finally make Lorelei an offer she can’t refuse.

Don’t miss Dead Heat , Crossroads Queen, book 7. For fans of quaint small towns chock full of vampires, fae, witches, werewolves, mage assassins, ghosts, and the clueless humans they protect.

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Paranormal, Vampires, Demons, Mythology, Magic

302 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 5, 2024

About the author

Annabel Chase is the author of urban fantasy and cozy mystery novels. She would love to live in a magical town where she can shop at Ready-to-Were for the the perfect outfit, flirt with hot angels and vampires, and cook gourmet meals without exerting any effort. Visit her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Annabel-Chas... or on her website at www.annabelchase.com.

Reviews

[Katyana · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @ 58%

The series took a really hard downturn over the last couple books imo. And the FMC became a ridiculous martyr, and honestly, a total asshole. Between her being a total bitch to Kane, who just wants to be her partner, and her volunteering to sacrifice herself for anyone with a stubbed toe, and finally her really dumb interactions with Corporation people, I can't take it anymore. Why doesn't she just start killing these Corporation people? Even better, signing up these other gods she keeps encountering to team up and kill them? When that chick in the library started threatening all the children in the building, Lorelei should have slapped a hand to her head and driven her insane. The end.

Nope, done.

[Khushi Gala · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a wrap on Dead Hear by Annabel Chase!

Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

I don't know how but Annabel's books are always very easy to read!

This is the seventh book in the series and I loved all the books so far!

She introduced new characters in all her books and it's still easy to keep track of the plot which is commendable!

This book was fast paced, easy, a little sad and left bread crumbs for the next book! I'm excited to read the series finale and have this sweet ending because I have come to love all these characters and can't imagine not looking forward to having a new book with these characters!

I'm wishing Annabel continues to write about a character from this universe itself so I have something to look forward to but we shall see what happens!

Happy Reading!

[Ashley Ed · Rating 3 out of 5]

The 7th book in the series and what a journey it's been! 

I enjoy this series because it has me at every turn. I'm slightly sad as I thought we'd get more answers in this book and whilst we got some, it still feels like I'm waiting. Additionally, I feel like we didn't get much Lorelei and Kane and I would of loved to see more of the pair together. 

I also had in my head this was the last of the series, but once I got 80% in and it wasn't wrapping up the series plot, I soon realised that there would be another. 

Overall, yes we got a few more answers, but then we also got more questions to go with the answers, which I love and hate at the same time - but it definitely keeps me guessing all throughout the series. 

Overall this book was enjoyable, and I will definitely read the 8th book because I'm truly invested now and NEED to know what happens. I'm just ready for answers like now. 

[Rianna Sankarpersad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series. Every book is something different yet still follows the overall big baddie Corp. My only complaint is I want to see more of Kane and Lorelei's tender moments and definitely more of their spice!

Absolutely love that the audio book is available with the book release.

[Susan1566 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lorelei is no longer the lone person in her life, she seems to keep accumulating friends. Kane brings her a problem with his newest bartender, an incubus named Alexander, who has been cursed. The Corporation has sent a new member, flying dogs and Cerebos from her original goddess Melinoe’s past. Things just never end. Along with West, they bring the sheriff and deputy into the knowledge of the supernatural world.
While trying to help Alexander, stay away from the Corporation, expand the wards on her land, Lorelei is keeping busy.
I love how the author brings in all the different creatures, gods and myths from the multitude of pantheons, I keep looking things up. They are so well done.
Per usual, Lorelei is unable to say no when someone needs help and is unwilling to accept help herself.
Things are building in her life, there is an offer from the Corporation, an ultimatum from the Greek underworld, and the growing affections of everyone in her life.
This series keeps getting more interesting as it goes along. Unfortunately I now have to wait a couple of months for the next installment.

[Jumms · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sigh

I've never seen an author see-saw so much. You get excited about certain progress and then bam 2 steps back. Finally, the passing and storytelling was getting ba ck or had the feel of the first book.

There was miniscule progress w Kane and Lorelai, but they are adulting. In the beginning it seems as if Lorelai isn't being reckless and jumping head first into trouble. The plan taken for their community makes sense and it's nice to see everyone bring brought into the fold.

Thennn of course she does things against her own self interest..as per usual. She is faced with two big decisions, one she makes even though there is absolutely nothing smart abt it. And the other Weare left hanging. We get a bit more of a glimpse into her past and there are hints of future issues. This feels a bit like a filler book. It's sad because this series had a potential to be amazing!

[D K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in LOVE with this series ❤️❤️❤️

It’s so captivating, engaging and unique. Lorelei is an amazing and complex FMC. She is smart, fierce, sarcastic, funny, a total kick-ass, as well as kind and very loyal to those she cares about. Annabel Chase always manages to bring the characters to life and write such diverse and entertaining stories. This series is no exception. It is great to see the growth in Lorelei and how the story progresses in such an organic way. If you are into supernatural characters, great humor, action and a bit of romance, you will definitely fall in love with this series! There are always surprises, new characters and plenty of adventure. Nana Pratt and Ray are such a stroke of genius and add so much more to the story. I think book 8 is suppose to be the last book, but I do hope the author reconsiders and continues with a few more books.. I usually don’t like when authors drag a story or book for too long, but this is one of those stories that you cannot get enough of. As I mentioned in my previous reviews, the only hiccup is that I wish the author would also put a bit more effort into the MMC who sometimes feels like an afterthought. I am all for an independent, kick-ass, smart and amazing FMC, but it would be great to also have a MMC that plays a more significant role in the FMC’s life. Highly, very highly recommend!!!

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

Seven books in and I feel like this plot still hasn’t progressed. Why is Kane even there when he basically plays no role in the story? Why introduce Max just to sacrifice him at the end when we barely got to know him? Why is Lorelei repeating the exact same words and actions seven books into this series?

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

outstanding story

Rating: 5⭐️

Dead Heat really escalates the overall danger that’s been created and implies that the many serious threats towards Lorelei and her found family are more imminent and deadly.

There are a boatload of plot lines here, from an incubus bartender with a strange mark on his chest that needs a bit of investigation to a new visitor in need of a place to stay, and as always, The villainous Corporation wanting Lorelei and sending its minions after her. But of course, there’s more, and it’s Kane, her demon boyfriend, who might be in trouble.

Dead Heat (Crossroads Queen Book 7) by Annabel Chase superbly increases the level of danger, suspense and chaos for all the characters going forward. Chase has brought Lorelei into the Fairhaven fold, made her its guardian, and given her a found family of vampires, assassins, witches, werewolves, ghosts and the odd paranormal beings. Even a human sheriff and demon boyfriend.

And now the largest threat is to the very people and things she came there to avoid happening and having.

Great job and story.

I’m reading two books at a time. And I’ve heard that Half Dead #8 ends on a cliffhanger and Dead End #9 isn’t released yet. So I’ll wait until both are available and then read right through.

Until then, this is one amazing series. Binge them or just read them one by one. Fab stuff. Great character development and plotting. A true winner.

Cover by Trif Designs, which has changed to reflect the fact that the word has gotten out that Lorelei Clay is a demigod. So great touch with that head halo/crown addition.

Crossroads Queen series:
Dead to the World #1
Dead of Night #2
Dead Last #3
Dead Wrong #4
Dead Weight #5
Play Dead #6
Dead Heat #7
Half Dead #8
Dead End #9 - April 17,2025

[Nadia Shaik · Rating 5 out of 5]

dead heat

This has been on my TBR for a while and I finally got to it.

I’ve spent too much time reading series that are full of angst and cliff hangers.

This is, I’m so happy to say not in that category.

I love this series, the plots are crisp and clear and the characters well developed.

One of the best things about this series is the mythology. There’s a cross over between a host of different cultures and myths. It all weaves together wonderfully and I think the author has done a fantastic job.
Not only have I enjoyed reading the books but I’ve learnt a lot too.

It’s great to see that Lorelei is making a life for herself. She’s making friends and slowly becoming the person who she was meant to be.

I love Cam and Gun, but there wasn’t too much interaction with them in this book.
Kane’s feature time is also a lot less than in the previous books. There’s development in their relationship. They no longer hide their feelings for each other. Although I think that Lorelei is still struggling with the idea of being in a relationship. The romance between Lorelei and Kane is sweet and romantic.
This is a change from the usual romantasy where the characters meet, fall into bed and their interactions are essentially just sex scenes.

The book is so well written that the lack of spice doesn’t affect my opinion of the story as a whole.

I really enjoyed this book. Looking forward to the next one.

[Mike Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

extraordinary entertaining urban fantasy paranormal cozy mystery series

This is an extraordinarily entertaining urban fantasy paranormal cozy mystery series. A great cast of characters in an entertaining story on. Lorelei is a goddess of nightmares ghost and terror. She was reborn in human body and has been hiding her goddess powers all over her life. She traveled the world Talking to ghost and finding missing Wills missing objects etc. one day she decided to buy a worn down castle in a backwater town in Pennsylvania. This particular town happened to sally magical crossroads that led to many other realms and dimensions. After meeting some of the paranormal and having of the town she becomes the guardian of that said gate. She also has the corporation continually coming after her. The corporation is a group of people putting other God entities into humans. You can read more about that in the previous books. Once again she’s also helping out someone so that they do not have to suffer consequences. Read on and see where her adventure takes her this time. Always entertaining always plenty of action little bit of Snark and outright fun.

[Spinneretta · Rating 4 out of 5]

good

This is book seven of the series, and it’s not a standalone. Definitely read the preceding six first!

When Kane brings his new bartender to Lorelei for help, she finds herself dealing with some unusual consequences. Then there are the visitors from her family (the godly side) and the never ending shenanigans of the Corporation and the local town…

Lots happening in this book, which seems to be setting us up for an interesting showdown! I am actually looking forward to seeing what Lorelei does next, because we see so many interesting tidbits in this book that hint at something rather larger than we’ve seen yet.
It’s a bit difficult to describe simply because there are lots of little things happening in this book, but they are all part of a larger picture that began with earlier books in the series.
It’s an enjoyable read though, even if there is a lot going on, and I won’t spoil it, just know we get to see our favourite characters, and Kane and Lorelei seem to be doing quite well together!
It’s an enjoyable read for UF fans, particularly those who enjoy Greek myth inspired stories (though there is also something for the Norse fans in this book).

[Cheryl Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kane is a boyfriend, he doesn't appear in the story much except a few chaste times he is basically someone who isn't really that connected, the two ghosts at the house are helping her out, but again not really more than just a couple of connections who don't mean to her, a new rock being pops up, she helps him and he finds a new home eventually but hardly features in the book that much either and the corporation invite her to talk with them, which she spends the book pondering. She does go back to the underworld and reconnect with her aunt and dog for a short time but doesn't want to be there.
She runs around trying to save Alessandro, although once she does there is nothing further on that front, no angry witch popping up. We assume that's the end of that.
I do like the book, it just felt a bit less rewarding, the story is good and her life is interesting, but she basically spends the whole book not really doing a lot and is about to peek in to the corporation, again, with no real plan on how to deal with them or what to do. It feels a bit annoying and doesn't really have a move forward vibe. It is still a good read all the same.

[Jenntleh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Needing a comfort break before falling into a reading slump, I returned to a favorite cozy fantasy world—and Dead Heat welcomed me back like a warm hug.

In this book, we’re reminded that Lorelei now knows who her parents are, and that knowledge might come with certain... expectations. There are hints that a position could be demanded of her from a realm a bit farther south—shall we say, Down Under. Meanwhile, the Corporation is still lurking with recruitment tactics that don’t exactly hinge on her consent.

Lorelei also finds herself entangled in the life-or-death curse of an incubus, and because he’s part of her chosen magical world, she feels compelled to step in as his proxy. Her fiercely protective three-headed hellhound continues to pop in like a treasured, growling guardian.

She’s backed by all the usual suspects—her ghostly roommates, demon boyfriend, and loyal wolf clan. Even the local authorities lend a hand, and a mysterious new guest plays a key role. With heartfelt community moments, magical complications, and just the right touch of danger, this story delivers all the cozy charm and intrigue I’ve come to expect from the series.

[Starr Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing but love for the wild child reborn rebel goddess Lorelei and her magical adventures! Now that she put down roots and is the queen of the crossroads in her magical town that she has adopted, she has stopped running from her dark past and is making friends, even has a love, in bad boy demon hottie Kane.

Of course life becomes much more challenging when the past comes banging on the door - her aunt Hestia, her dad Hades and mom Persephone, her pet and beloved childhood companion Cereberus…and of course the nasty folks at The Corporation show up again (they just don’t seem to be very creative or inventive, but perhaps Evil incarnate doesn’t have to be!)

This is one of my favorite series in this genre. There is always great writing from Ms Chase every time, a hilarious immortal heroine, a hottie sweetie and a host of fascinating characters, intriguing archetypes - the elements that create magical books that bring me back over and over! A rolling good story and an absolutely worthwhile read

[Sara Henry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy this series. There is a lot of good personality to most of the characters.

Gun contemplated me. "Does this mean we can finally do our long awaited group hug?"
I looked from cousin to cousin. "I didn't realize that was on anybody's wishlist."
He flung his arms wide. "Get in here, both of you, and warm the cockles of an assassin's cold, dead heart."

My biggest issues with this series are always the same two things. The stories always feel shorter than they should and/because it always feels like more of what is going to happen or needs to happen soon gets shown than gets covered in each entry. It always feels like there is a backlog, that gets larger and larger, of what has to happen. And then the major points in the next book almost always seem to be going in a different direction than what feels like was previously broadcast.

I always enjoy these stories, and they come out with a quick turn-around. But I can't rate it higher than 4 stars due to these opinions that I hold.

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rock man, incubus, and the corporation

I enjoyed this book and all the new and interesting characters that came into our heroines life. We have an interesting rock creature who ended up being exactly what she needed to help in her main quest of the book. This is a common theme as I am sure you other readers have noticed. The main quest of this book is to help an incubus figure out why he has been hexed and then go deal with it. Where it takes us is quite the adventure. A side story with The Corporation is the other main stress for our girl and I believe we will finally figure this out in the next book where hopefully we will get the answers to where all the missing gods are and that includes her parents.

[Emilye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dies It Count If He wants To Stay?

CrossroadsQueen7

An incubus who no longer looks sexy. A human police chief who is learning the supernatural score in her town. Friendship benefits that lighten the load.

Lorelei is at heart a problem solver, though she used to be better at setting boundaries. When she ran her heir finding business, she at least would accept payment; not so in Fairhaven. She could use a little financial pragmatism, to be honest.

But, one of her strengths is refusing to be intimidated. Unfortunately, she can be manipulated, when her savior complex is evoked; empathy isn’t always convenient.

And, the Corporation is still sniffing around. The minions all share ruthless ambition to be the best shark in the tank. Guess someone needs to break the glass…

[JW USA · Rating 4 out of 5]

for fans

Dead Heat offers a mix of enjoyable moments, including a lively game night with Lorelei’s friends and a compelling date night with Kane that blends authentic conversation with seduction. Nana sewing her a dress adds a heartfelt touch to the story. However, despite these highlights, the overall plot feels somewhat thin. Even Lorelei’s brave decision to take Alessandro’s place and venture into hell doesn’t add enough weight to the narrative. The book feels more like a transitional interlude than a fully developed instalment, leaving readers craving more depth and progression.

[Lita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly fabulous! This was so much fun to read and it was so nice to "visit" the folks in Fairhaven again. There is a lot going on with The Corporation still trying to get Lorelei and now Hestia and the Furies are trying to get her to accept the throne and rule over Hades realm in her parent's continued absence. With more supernatural sightings in Fairhaven, the group decides to come clean with law enforcement and let them on the secrets. But when an incubus is cursed, Lorelei goes on a journey to Helheim to retrieve the spirit of a lover of the witch who cursed him in order to free him of his curse before he dies. In the midst of all this, the relationship between Lorelei and Kane deepens.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this series and read them all fairly quickly….until this one. I got bored with lack of progress and answers part way through and put the book aside for a week or so as a result.

The characters are enjoyable. As usual, a lot of the decisions made are questionable. I find myself truly annoyed with the failure to agree to being paid. One of the things I loved in the first few books was how she got things for the house each time…and that was missing here.

All the gods of death missing is clearly leading to seething but we are left with no answers at the end of the day.

I did rather enjoy Cerberus.

[Jinjre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm still loving this series' break from the traditional urban fantasy tropes!

I love that the characters act like adults. I love that characters consider the impacts their actions have on others before taking action. I love that we can have a romance that doesn't become the entirety of the plot line, and that improves the plot line rather than detracting from it.

I love that our main character has the ability to be a total badass, but would really rather just be left alone to do DIY home improvements. Perhaps I relate a bit to this aspect.

I just love that this is a very different (i.e., not same old tired recycled cliches) urban fantasy story.

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Parts of the book seemed to be filler but there was some forward movement and needed information as well. A major part of the story is just left unfinished in a very strange way. A few new characters were introduced. Some will have more impact moving forward than others. Lorelei is also slowly remembering some of her life as Melinoe - which has both positives and negatives. There is some forward movement with her relationship with Kane, but it's treated as a distant third in importance. She also is pretty dismissive of him multiple times which is frustrating. She makes a final decision that seems very poorly thought out, but it is the set up for the next book.

[Shannon · Rating 2 out of 5]

I get that a character must be "true to themself", but I also want to see character development. And in this book, unless you consider "game night" and Lorelei realizing she does have friends and people who care about her (and her them), it was just same ol' Lorelei offering to sacrifice herself for someone else, even when she has no attachment or strong connection to that other person.

Overall, this book felt like a big filler, barely moving the story along and only teasing the next steps what I am assuming if a final showdown with The Corporation. A step that seems to not be thought out at all and will only lead to disaster.

[Mooncat · Rating 3 out of 5]

This time, beside the usual, Lorelei has agreed to help Kane‘s new bartender. The succubus is losing his sex appeal, which means ultimately his death. So no time to waste.
Finally, Lorelei used the crossroads for the first time herself. I loved the trip into another realm and would have enjoyed seeing more of other realms in previous books. And we also got a bit more of Melinoe background, which is so interesting. But to be honest, this book felt incomplete, rather like a first part of a longer arch than a book. I‘m aware it’s heading towards the end, still, so far the previous books felt like a book on their own. This didn’t. And I fear, the next one won’t either. But we’ll see.

[GarbageTaste · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nothing much is happening in this book. I wouldn't say it's terrible, but it isn't the best either. I mean, if there is no significant progress with the main story plot, shouldn't the romance aspect see a development… But no, that didn't happen either. It appears that Lorelei isn't getting any character development but is, in fact, getting worse. Was she always this prickly? Is it because it's been a while since I read this series? I don't remember her being this touchy… Each time Kane makes a remark she doesn't like, she flips. It's weird; she's not four. Can't she self-regulate better than this??

[Julie Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Memories, a visit home and perhaps a lot less alone

All Lorelei thought she wanted was to be left alone, it seems even more so that this not the truth.
The Corporation doesn’t want to give up, wards need reinforcement, a surprise trip to the underworld and a deliberate one to Helheim. Topped by a first date with a certain prince of hell.
All in a typical day for a wannabe hermit.
And where has the comfy wicker chair on the porch come from?
Great read which was over too soon but comforted knowing there will be more.

[Josh Portwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was largely a book that connected several dots and offered a lot of filler. You see people start to grow and we are moving forward. We are definitely in the home stretch. It was good to see the relationship grow and it was interesting getting to see some of Melinoe's past and those who are a part of it. Like book, like always, had Lorelei juggling a lot of things and it introduced several more she will be handling as we move forward. It is clear the corporation is the big bad guy and they seem to be worse than we expected. I look forward to the next book

[The Man from DelMonte · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Control to Tower."
"Go ahead GoodReader."
"Book is on auto. Repeat. Book is on auto."
This instalment of Crossroads Queen will be my last as it's essentially 300 pages of filler. There's zero character development. Instead, we're treated to an ever-expanding list of supporting NPCs; none of whom have any actual personality. They're cardboard cutouts in different shapes that get wheeled on to deliver some dialogue, and then get wheeled off again.
Ms Chase's knowledge of mythological deities is impressive, but it doesn't make up for the fact that this is 75,000 words in search of a story.

[Deborah · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was so awful, it's hard to believe. I could tell exactly where it was going, and I wasn't interested in getting there. It felt like watching a washing machine do an entire wash cycle. In slow motion.

I looked for spoilers for this book and the final book to see if it was even worth the effort. The final book sounded just interesting enough to be worth some effort, so I did a skim to the end of this book.

Honestly speaking, I think you could skip this book entirely and not miss much.