Forever Lasting

Forever Bluegrass #23

by Kathleen Brooks

Cassidy Davies is used to being seen as the youngest in the huge Davies family. She’d grown up with too many overprotective brothers and cousins to count. So, she learned how to be invisible. That is, after she learned from her family how to be a spy, how to be an elite soldier, and how to bat her eyes and smile while taking a person down.

Now a government asset, Cassidy gathers information for the government or is a lone assassin. Whatever the government needs, she delivers. But this case is personal. She’s been called to help an old friend stave off a coup. Only this time, she may need some help. She just doesn’t know who it is that keeps showing up exactly when she needs it or how to find him when things go sideways. He’s always just a shadow in the night, but she’s beginning to feel as if he might be more than that.

He’s always in the shadows. No one can know his involvement with government missions or the fact that he has one Cassidy Davies. He first saw her when they both went to rescue the same person, yet she doesn’t even know he’s always got her back or that he even exists since she’s never seen him. She has no idea he’s the one who clears the way for her escapes, when she needs it. But when Cassidy’s life is in danger, it’s time for him to step from the shadows to save the woman he loves.

Genres: Romance, Romantic Suspense, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Suspense

338 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 17, 2025

About the author

Kathleen Brooks is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author. Kathleen's stories are romantic suspense featuring strong female heroines, humor, and happily-ever-afters. Her Bluegrass, Bluegrass Brothers®, Forever Bluegrass®, and Shadows Landing Series feature small-town charm with quirky characters while her Women of Power Series shows that behind every sexy billionaire is a man strong enough to love her! Then hang onto your seat for the wild and mysterious ride in the thrilling Web of Lies Series and a little magic in the Moonshine Hollow Series.

Kathleen is from Kentucky, where she graduated from Centre College and then later received her J.D. from the University of Kentucky College of Law. Kathleen still resides in Kentucky with her family and houseful of animals.


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Book Order:
(Bluegrass Series-complete series)
Bluegrass State of Mind
Risky Shot
Dead Heat

(Bluegrass Brothers Series®-complete series)
Bluegrass Undercover
Rising Storm
Secret Santa, A Bluegrass Series Novella
Acquiring Trouble
Relentless Pursuit
Secrets Collide
Final Vow
All Hung Up, Novella
Bluegrass Dawn, Novella
The Perfect Gift, Novella
The Keeneston Roses

(Forever Bluegrass Series®-complete series)
Forever Entangled
Forever Hidden
Forever Betrayed
Forever Driven
Forever Secret
Forever Surprised, Novella
Forever Concealed
Forever Devoted
Forever Hunted
Forever Guarded
Forever Notorious
Forever Ventured
Forever Freed
Forever Saved
Forever Bold
Forever Thrown
Forever Lies
Forever Protected
Forever Paired
Forever Connected
Forever Covert
Forever Burning
Forever Lasting
Forever Country
Forever Remembered

(Bluegrass Fire Series-ongoing)
Spark

(Shadows Landing-complete series)
Saving Shadows
Sunken Shadows
Lasting Shadows
Fierce Shadows
Broken Shadows
Framed Shadows
Endless Shadows
Fading Shadows
Damaged Shadows
Escaping Shadows

(Shadows Landing: The Townsends- ongoing series)
Face-Off
Targeted
Rescued
Heated
Escaped
Fractured
Claimed

(Paige Turner Bookworm Series- complete)
Adventures of a Bookworm
Misadventures of a Bookworm
The Adventurous Bookworm

(Moonshine Hollow- complete series)
Moonshine and Murder
Moonshine and Malice
Moonshine and Mayhem
Moonshine and Mischief
Moonshine and Menace
Moonshine and Masquarades

(Web of Lies- complete)
Whispered Lies
Rogue Lies
Shattered Lies

(Women of Powe-complete)
Chosen for Power
Built for Power
Fashioned for Power
Destined for Power

Reviews

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The spy who came out of the shadows.
Cassidy Davies keeps on top of her game in the CIA, but somebody keeps coming to the rescue and she doesn't need rescuing, in the shadows, until one night he invades her personal space and the chemistry between the two of them is off the charts. He sees her for who she really is, something she never had growing up in the family where she felt invisible, but her really the real Cassidy and he wants her for his very own, and she can't resist him. And when he revels who he truly is, she is stunned. Cassidy was in danger and he must show himself to her because he can't let anything happen to her.
Warrick had a mission, but he would do anything for Cassidy even if it meant revealing himself and trusting her and the good people of Keeneston, KY to help him in his mission to find out who killed his parents. An the good citizens like nothing better than to help someone find out the truth and take care of business....
Kathleen Brooks draws her readers in to this small unique town and you want to be part of the gang from the Rose Sisters, to the Davies and the royalty who act like they are just small town southern people who show you that great southern hospitality. So stop in at the Blossom Cafe, have someone of the Rose Sister's special sweet tea, and enjoy this wonderful ending to a fantastic series. I know that one day we will return to Keeneston, KY for the 4th generation will be wanting their stories told.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's more to life than revenge

Cassidy may drag him from the shadows kicking and screaming...but the eagle eyes in Keeneston already knew who he was....or at least who the world thinks he is and they know exactly what he has done for Cassidy. The fear of discovery almost cripples him, but his feelings for Cassidy force him to continue. His deepest darkest secret is still safe...until Cassidy asks him to trust her, to trust Keeneston, to trust Birch. Trust doesn't come easily to her protective shadow, but Cassidy knows he needs to be reminded of just how good the unconditional love of family feels and be shown that having a team doesn't mean he loses control, it means he has the support he needs to move forward effectively. And whilst Cassidy shows him how to open his heart again....he shows her she is seen. He sees her, he supports her without reservation and he protects her on the rare occasion she needs it.
This may be the end of an era, the last of the Davies cousins falling for her man, they finally take down a long looming threat....but uncover a bigger and wider reaching nest of vipers and the presidential election looms signalling changes ahead. But thankfully it won't be the end of our visits to Keeneston, there are still plenty of unmarried "victims" for the matchmakers to target and a whole new black ops team going forward.
Keeneston cannot be compared to anywhere else, it is unique, it is crazy, it is brilliant and it is the best escape. I look forward to more..... everything.

[Victoria Sturlini · Rating 5 out of 5]

FANTASTIC STORY AS USUAL!❤💙💚💛💜

Kathleen is such a master story teller! This book was so awesome.....I really enjoyed how all of the people from past books were in this book!.. I have read every book featuring Keeneston more than once so it was like getting to visit with family!! How she does it I don't know but she always hits it out of the ballpark with her books and this one seemed exceptionally heartwarming, humorous, and suspenseful. The storyline was interesting and unique. I really enjoyed how the relationship between Warrick and Cassidy was portrayed... with such cute humor, swooney romance, deep commitment and understanding right from the start... Every time Cassidy called him one of those cutie affectionate names I smiled!! It was so heartwarming how Warrick loved Cassidy for all those years and helped keep her safe without her realizing who it was. The Sunday dinner scenes were hilariously written... I love, love, love how much that family sticks together and genuinely loves each other with a caring and loyalty that is so beautiful to read about! I could go on and on but suffice it to say that this was a perfect book...every part of it was entertaining and wonderfully balanced so you got every thing your heart could ever desire while visiting Keeneston again!!!

[Carmen Alicea · Rating 5 out of 5]

If spy games and shadowy protectors get your heart racing, Kathleen Brooks' Forever Lasting is the perfect read. Cassidy Davies is a no-nonsense, butt-kicking heroine who's equal parts charm and lethal skill.

Tasked with a personal mission, she finds herself unknowingly protected by a brooding, mysterious hero who steps out of the shadows just when she needs him most.

The chemistry? Off the charts. The action? Nail-biting. And the romance? A slow-burn delight that'll have you hooked. Brooks delivers a thrilling mix of sass, suspense, and steamy tension.

Add this one to your TBR pile ASAP!

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassidy and her guy in the shadows... this book was so good. Kathleen Brooks has the ability to tease readers all while overtaking the bad guys and shutting down the attempt to overthrow democracy. That's just in the first few chapters.
So many cross over characters, but not in a confusing way. This book is another trip to the family of Keeneston and so many little tidbits that touch me and make me feel at home. Loved!!!!

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series!

This was a great book about the "last" Davies cousin. I have been waiting for Cassidy's story for so long. I love how Brooks brought in the connection to the Web of Lies series (which is fantastic). As always, a totally fun read.
I can't say enough about this series. This book was a nice ending of the Davies series (and jumping point for the next). I love the stories. They are sweet, action filled, and funny. There's just enough reality to each story. I will definitely keep coming back to Keeneston.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 - 3.5 Stars

Forever Lasting is Book #23 in the Forever Bluegrass series (Bluegrass Book #37) by Kathleen Brooks. ‘Bluegrass’ combines romance and suspense, with a touch of Southern charm.
A few years ago a friend recommended this author, and her many series, to me - as she had devoured every book and absolutely loved them, singing the author’s praises from high from the hilltops. So, being an avid reader who loves discovering new authors and enticing reads, I took my friends recommendations seriously, and started amassing Ms. Brooks many books, with the plan to have a huge binge session/buddy read with my friend. But with so many books on my TBR, and new, exciting ones releasing every week, I always seemed to get pulled into other books- as these just kept piling up.
Since part of my yearly reading challenges for the past few years has been to dust off my TBR pile/s and read the books that have been languishing there the longest, I decided to finally dive in and get the series read. While I did ‘enjoy’ the books for the most part- I didn’t fall madly in love with them as my friend promised that I would. But that’s ok, I am really happy that she loves them as much as she does. But for me, they were just an ‘okay’ read.
With plenty of small-town drama, intrigue, angst, chemistry, humour, community, family, friendship, charm, mystery, tension, danger, emotion, and suspense- the stories are about finding love unexpectedly and love conquering all.
The books can all be read as standalones if you wanted, without feeling ‘lost’ or like you are missing big pieces of the picture. This is because each instalment introduces its own ‘couple’- providing plenty of romance, a dash of suspense, and some sweet development to make your heart flutter.
But I have to be honest, I found there were a few issues which detracted from my overall enjoyment of the stories/series. Such as the ‘wordiness’ which really slowed the flow of the storyline at times, as there was such an overwhelming amount of detail which didn’t really ‘add’ to or propel the story in any way, except to perhaps distract from the plot. I love details, normally- but not when there are pages of descriptions, as things tend to ‘bog’ down and the flow/pace/plot gets lost amongst the detritus- and also leads to some ‘wandering’ storylines. There were also many loose ends, for me- threads that were left hanging, or not fully woven into the storyline- which I found a bit frustrating.
I really wanted to love this series as much as my friend did…. but instead, I was left a little disappointed.
Happy reading! 📚💙

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Trope(s): Romantic Suspense
Spice Level: 🔥.75

Synopsis: Cassidy Davies isn’t just the little sister anymore—she’s a top government operative with serious skills. When she gets pulled into stopping a coup, danger follows, but so does the mysterious protector who’s been watching over her for years. When The Boogeyman” finally steps out of the shadows, sparks fly.

Thoughts: I love going back to this small, quirky town. Even though the plots are outrageous and there’s no way all these types of characters are a part of this family and this town, it’s still a good ride. All the characters are all special in their own way. Some moments felt predictable, and the pacing dragged at times, but action, tension, and just enough to keep me reading.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I cannot believe all the kids (except Cricket) are done! I really like this book and I liked the twist when I thought I had it figured out then I was made to change my thoughts with a twist only to realize I was right! The banter between Ahmed and Warrick it is funny to watch those two and their bromance! The Rose sisters and Marcy and the moms now throw in the guys thinking they are all matchmaking and they were the correct matchers was funny not to mention the slingshot thong was hysterical. We still don't know who the dropper is!!! I was slightly disappointed with the climax it fell a little flat as in everything just fell into place so easy. That being said it was still a good book full of all the Keeneston antics! Now bring on the firefighters!

[Michele A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cassidy's story was really interesting. We see her step out of the shadows and stand up for herself with the help of the new man in her life. Since he has chosen to remain in the shadows and not make himself known, I will not say who it is. I will say that they fit each other really well. He makes her brothers see that she is a lot more than the little sister they push to the side all of the time. She is more than their babysitter. She is a very competent woman who does her job very well. When she learns all about the mystery man's past, she knows she needs to help him overcome his past. Their story was very entertaining. Keeneston really steps up again to help them when needed.

[Lisa Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always loved this series and this one did not disappoint. Warrick and Cassidy were absolutely perfect for each other. Both working with CIA but Cassidy believes he was just Warrick, someone she found attractive but her co worker, probably not a good idea to date. Warrick did know if she was trustworthy but once he knew she was he fell in love with her. Working together brought them closer but all the secrets reveal a lot. Yes meddling parents and grandparents are definitely involved. LMBO!

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this book! There were so many twists, surprises, and unexpected turns! I also really loved how the sense of family is present in all of her books but especially this book. Your true family will always sees you for who you are, support you, accept you for yourself, and fight your battles with you. They do not have to be related to you to be your family. The action is also awesome! The Davis family dinner!!!!!!

[Brittany Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing

What an amazing finish to this generation of the Davies family. Cassidy is a strong female character and I love how she got her happily ever after with someone she didn't expect. The entire family had me laughing and I loved seeing just how involved Jake and Marcy were in match making. I was laughing from start to finish. Amazing book. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars.

[Marie Vayer · Rating 4 out of 5]

an amazing story!

This entire series has been one great read after another. I am a bit disappointed in the quality of this one as far as mistakes and editing goes. Sentences with extra words or missing words - really? This author is usually perfect, which means her editor rushed to get the book published. Sloppy mistakes that weren’t caught make the author look bad. I give it a 4 star due to editing only.

[Melissa’s Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassidy’s happy every after

No spoilers, so no names. It was Cy “the spy” who trained Cassidy, it’s Cassidy’s turn to have an adventure or two. The story also updates characters of this series and future Keeneston female pregnancies. I love Kathleen’s style to tell a story and this series with multi character adventures…. Will there be another series start within this book, we’ll see.

[Rebecca Goss · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Cassidy discovers there is more to her workmate then she knew, the plot thickens. Her huge family are, of course, involved in her job and her love life. It is always fun to visit Keeneston and all the characters faithful readers have loved for so long. Having grown up in Kentucky, I love hearing about local places and it feels like a home visit. I especially love how the author makes female characters intelligent and powerful in their own right.

[AMG · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!

Another fantastic installment in the Forever series, one I never get tired of reading.
Strong female characters, men who are strong protectors who can admit when they are wrong.
Humor, love, intrigue, covert missions and revenge, what more could you want?!
A happily ever after… this book brings it all!
But beware of slime… it can lead to lego building… hahahah

[Mayas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun heartfelt read.

This book was SO much fun. Warrick fit right in with the Davies family. My heart broke for him, though. Being alone for years seeking revenge can be taxing on someone's soul. His love/protectiveness of Cassidy is what saved him. Helped him get the answers he needed and a family who will always have his six.

[Andrea Akers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forever Lasting

A,past threat comes back in a different manner leaving Cassidy and Warrick to look for the source. As with the Davies family and Keenston as a whole, Cassidy brings Warrick home to Keenston in order to plan the op. Will the town find the source before it is too late ? Will Cassidy and Warrick find their happily ever after? It

[Julie Morton · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite author!!

I have read every book written by Ms. Brooks. She is my favorite! I laugh, and cry throughout her books.
Cassidy is a badass as the rest of her family. Her uncle trained her to be the best CIA agent. You won’t believe who the boogie man is… no spoilers… must read!!! One of my favorites of her collection. I love Keenston! Please continue!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glad its not over

Read every book you have written. But following through the series and having the whole family playing a part really makes it fun. And having family from your shadow landings involved makes sense as well. I read you when I get quiet time. Thank you such great and entertaining stories.

[Dorothy Crocker · Rating 5 out of 5]

OUTSTANDING!

Kathleen Brooks really outdid herself with the last book in the Forever Bluegrass series. It has everything you can think of in it. The family dinners are the best, especially the tie breaker. Cassidy and her mystery man were made for each other. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the President’s Guard.

[Suzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though Cassidy is a successful CIA agent she always feels invisible around her siblings and cousins. They all see her as the younger family member not a grown up woman. But there is one person who sees the real Cassidy and he will do everything he can protect her. Enjoyable story, a lot of funny moments along with intrigue and tons of family.

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pet Names

I was in giggles without how many pet names come up in this wonderful addition to the Forever series. The conclusion to this series was wonderful done and while closed the door but for sure opened those bay windows in the future!! Move world building and Kathleen Brooks has that down to an art. I also now have Bonnie Tylor stuck in my head.

[Heather Berg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kathleen Brooks does it again!

Once again, Kathleen Brooks has given us an engaging and heartwarming book. She managed to include everyone from Keeneston without it feeling overwhelming or confusing. The gasps, tears, and laughter crop up steadily. "Grandpa Ahmed" made me chuckle every time. Thank you, Ms. Brooks, for continuing to include us in your creative world!

[Savannah Womble · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tears. Chills. Nostalgia. OBSESSED.

The best in the Forever series to date. maybe tied with Greer and Sebastian.
The twists, turns and character reveals were top notch and the romance, as always, integrated into life and death situations so seamlessly!

I'll never recover from this book, but I can't wait to see whose stories we get based on all the new information in this book!

[ellen symonds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best one ever.

Book 23 in Ms Brooks's Bluegrass series is arguably her best to date. Cassidy is the last Davis to find her forever love (not counting Cricket, but she is 6). No spoilers, but her love turns out to be as fierce as her family, and just as loving. Not to be missed.

[libertyhoundmac.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Book

Kathleen Brooks, you have done it again. Loved, loved, loved the book. You are such a great writer. I feel like the characters are real people, family and friends. You bring out all the feels.

[Sondra Wayman · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always a great book with twists and turns and Keeneston to the rescue! This book had a few more twists than usual…but it was all sown together….and don’t we all wish we could live in Keeneston. I totally recommend this book and the entire series.

[Kathy Brickert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adventure

What a rush! I was on the edge of my seat with all the who done its surfacing! But Keeneston never fails to come to the rescue. Lots of familiar faces in this story and laugh out loud moments! Loved it!