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Kat & Mouse
Katrina Brooks is a gifted photographer and an excellent roller derby referee. When she's wearing her stripes, she's focused and professional—and she rarely misses a call. Problem is, Kat's got her eye on a “Mouse” who has a knack for getting into trouble.
Dorothy Mauser (Dot) is a trash-picking junk artist with a big heart but a volatile temper. She’s also the most penalty-heavy skater in Crosscannon Roller Derby. Far from realizing our ref has a thing for her, Dot thinks Kat has it in for her.
As Kat prepares her work for display at Crosscannon Pridefest, Dot gets a chance to see her true colors. A tentative collaboration between these two artists quickly reveals a mutual attraction. But with playoffs on the horizon, their newfound connection may not survive their on-the-track tension—or the deeper insecurities it brings to light. Can Kat & Mouse overcome the instincts driving them apart? Or, for them, is animosity just the nature of the game?
(Author's Note: Crosscannon fiction contains occasional gameplay scenes, which aim to feel authentic to those who know the sport. As some readers will be less familiar with roller derby rules and terminology, an FAQ is included as an on-hand reference, explaining the basics of derby in lay terms.)
394 pages, Paperback
Published May 31, 2019
57 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 20, 2020
**'Dialogue is a construct; it is artificial; it is much more efficient and believable than real conversation...'
Good read!
A bit long but it's an enjoyable told story. Recommended to all interested readers!
Good read!
A bit long but it's an enjoyable told story. Recommended to all interested readers!
April 11, 2020
The book wasn't exactly about Roller Derby but how it affected Kat & Mouse's relationship.
Kat had a crush on Dot/mouse who was under the impression that Kat hates her. Initially they were so shy with each other, it was really adorable. They even got matching rainbow friendship bracelets. They had such an innocence about them, it was refreshing. Even their art complemented each other. Sometimes I had to take a break because cuteness overload!
Even after they got together the book just kept getting better. While the first half was sweet, the second was serious and a little heartbreaking. Their issues were realistic and not just drama for the sake of drama. Even though they both made mistakes it was impossible not to love them. There was some real angsty stuff here. Sometimes I just wanted to give them a hug. Overall it was a utterly heartwarming read.
Kat had a crush on Dot/mouse who was under the impression that Kat hates her. Initially they were so shy with each other, it was really adorable. They even got matching rainbow friendship bracelets. They had such an innocence about them, it was refreshing. Even their art complemented each other. Sometimes I had to take a break because cuteness overload!
Even after they got together the book just kept getting better. While the first half was sweet, the second was serious and a little heartbreaking. Their issues were realistic and not just drama for the sake of drama. Even though they both made mistakes it was impossible not to love them. There was some real angsty stuff here. Sometimes I just wanted to give them a hug. Overall it was a utterly heartwarming read.
September 17, 2019
Rejoice Roller Derby Fans - Jacquelyn Heat, a player herself had written this book specifically for all of you and for me, a beginner in this everyone should get their feet in sport.
I generally don’t do well with stories that have tons of angst, but this book really surprised me. The characters were frustratingly endearing, the type where no matter what mistakes or bad choices they made, I loved them through it all. The romance was shaky and borderline toxic, but I nevertheless wanted them to be together. The plot was dark and heavy, balanced by the fun, sweet moments, and tonnes of (IMO) roller derby.
I do have to warn you though, this book tackled sensitive topics and they definitely added the melancholic sorrow to the story. The characters made really bad choices and I admit, I was quite mad. Their actions can’t be justified but I did understand why they did what they did based on their sad home life/upbringing/prejudices of others/ insecurities. I found it exciting to read a story where any and all dramas and conflicts were realistically portrayed, not one ounce of exaggeration to it. The author did a splendid job of showcasing the leads' individual traits and how well they complemented each other together. It made me root for them even more.
I had to think about my rating a little. My gut instinct was to go with a 4 stars rating but after a night’s sleep and rereading some parts, I had to bump it up. This story left a deep mark on me, and it’s a book I won’t be forgetting anytime soon. Plus, it gave my heart such a workout and made me feel so many emotions I can’t give it any less. So while I did have a few issues with the story, they’re nothing compared to the immense love I have for these characters, the romance and the roller derby setting. Heart over mind this time, so I can’t give it less than 4⅜ stars. Congratulations on your firstborn, JH. Keep them coming, I'm a fan.
I generally don’t do well with stories that have tons of angst, but this book really surprised me. The characters were frustratingly endearing, the type where no matter what mistakes or bad choices they made, I loved them through it all. The romance was shaky and borderline toxic, but I nevertheless wanted them to be together. The plot was dark and heavy, balanced by the fun, sweet moments, and tonnes of (IMO) roller derby.
I do have to warn you though, this book tackled sensitive topics and they definitely added the melancholic sorrow to the story. The characters made really bad choices and I admit, I was quite mad. Their actions can’t be justified but I did understand why they did what they did based on their sad home life/upbringing/prejudices of others/ insecurities. I found it exciting to read a story where any and all dramas and conflicts were realistically portrayed, not one ounce of exaggeration to it. The author did a splendid job of showcasing the leads' individual traits and how well they complemented each other together. It made me root for them even more.
I had to think about my rating a little. My gut instinct was to go with a 4 stars rating but after a night’s sleep and rereading some parts, I had to bump it up. This story left a deep mark on me, and it’s a book I won’t be forgetting anytime soon. Plus, it gave my heart such a workout and made me feel so many emotions I can’t give it any less. So while I did have a few issues with the story, they’re nothing compared to the immense love I have for these characters, the romance and the roller derby setting. Heart over mind this time, so I can’t give it less than 4⅜ stars. Congratulations on your firstborn, JH. Keep them coming, I'm a fan.
November 2, 2019
Lesbian Roller Derby Romance. Go girls!
#1 in the Roller Derby series. To really enjoy this book you have to understand at least a little bit about Flat Track Roller Derby as it’s a rather big part about this sport. I knew nothing about except it’s on roller skates. At the end of the book are about five pages with an explanation about Roller Derby which was very helpful. Jacquelyn Heat is a Roller Derby player herself, so she knew what she was writing about.
The story is told from both MC's POV. Katrina had a difficult time as a teenager back home and is still running from her family. Now she lives with her best friend Lonny and tries to make a life with her photographic work. In her free time, she’s an excellent referee in Roller Derby. She has a crush on Dot Mauser (Mouse), the most penalty-heavy skater in Crosscannon Roller Derby (CRD).
Dot has a bad temper, which isn’t helpful when she’s playing, and she thinks Kat has a thing for her, but not in a good and fair way. She is a great trash artist, but she’s the only one who can’t see this. After Kat made the first step to meet with Dot outside Roller Derby, for the first time, Dot sees Kat for real. The attraction is mutual and soon they are spending a lot of time together.
The characters are great, both struggling with baggage from the past which still influences them today. Slowly we learn why they are acting the way they do. I loved them both, even though, sometimes I could have slapped them on the head for making some bad decisions. As the author tells her story about Kat&Mouse the fictional characters, we learn a lot about some tough issues. I don’t want to spoil too much, but it is a very emotional roller coaster ride. The themes are self-awareness, angst, homophobia, and mental issues, but also friendship, trust, love, photographic- and trash-art and about the great sports Roller Derby. The secondary characters are fantastic and added much to the story too. Real women power.
The romance is realistic with all the ups and downs, the emotions are palpable in good and in bad times. They have good chemistry and the few love scenes are hot. The pace and flow of the story are great, although I think the middle part is a bit long. And I would have loved to know more about Kat's upbringing and Dot's struggle as a young woman.
It looks like this is the author's first novel, I’m impressed by her writing and the depth of the story. I sure will read more from Ms. Heat. On her GR site, she says, she’s now working on #2 in this series and the story is about one of the other skaters from CRD. I'm looking forward to the second book.
My rating 4.25 stars.
ARC provided by the author and LezReviewBooks.com in exchange for an honest review.
#1 in the Roller Derby series. To really enjoy this book you have to understand at least a little bit about Flat Track Roller Derby as it’s a rather big part about this sport. I knew nothing about except it’s on roller skates. At the end of the book are about five pages with an explanation about Roller Derby which was very helpful. Jacquelyn Heat is a Roller Derby player herself, so she knew what she was writing about.
The story is told from both MC's POV. Katrina had a difficult time as a teenager back home and is still running from her family. Now she lives with her best friend Lonny and tries to make a life with her photographic work. In her free time, she’s an excellent referee in Roller Derby. She has a crush on Dot Mauser (Mouse), the most penalty-heavy skater in Crosscannon Roller Derby (CRD).
Dot has a bad temper, which isn’t helpful when she’s playing, and she thinks Kat has a thing for her, but not in a good and fair way. She is a great trash artist, but she’s the only one who can’t see this. After Kat made the first step to meet with Dot outside Roller Derby, for the first time, Dot sees Kat for real. The attraction is mutual and soon they are spending a lot of time together.
The characters are great, both struggling with baggage from the past which still influences them today. Slowly we learn why they are acting the way they do. I loved them both, even though, sometimes I could have slapped them on the head for making some bad decisions. As the author tells her story about Kat&Mouse the fictional characters, we learn a lot about some tough issues. I don’t want to spoil too much, but it is a very emotional roller coaster ride. The themes are self-awareness, angst, homophobia, and mental issues, but also friendship, trust, love, photographic- and trash-art and about the great sports Roller Derby. The secondary characters are fantastic and added much to the story too. Real women power.
The romance is realistic with all the ups and downs, the emotions are palpable in good and in bad times. They have good chemistry and the few love scenes are hot. The pace and flow of the story are great, although I think the middle part is a bit long. And I would have loved to know more about Kat's upbringing and Dot's struggle as a young woman.
It looks like this is the author's first novel, I’m impressed by her writing and the depth of the story. I sure will read more from Ms. Heat. On her GR site, she says, she’s now working on #2 in this series and the story is about one of the other skaters from CRD. I'm looking forward to the second book.
My rating 4.25 stars.
ARC provided by the author and LezReviewBooks.com in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2020
DAMN. This is everything I love - derby, art, Pennsylvania, romance, characters that act like real people, super and relatable portrayal of mental health issues, flea markets and heckin’ gay besides. Jacquelyn/Rita, I absolutely cannot wait to read more!
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August 22, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/22/2019)! 🎁
June 7, 2019
Jacquelyn Heat popped my roller derby romance cherry. I have never seen roller derby but now have a better understanding of the game. Granted, I did have to take pause to remember what some of the terms meant, but it was worth it during the derby scenes.
The one thing I will say while reading this book was that I wanted more from Kat and Dot. We really started to get to know them a little over halfway through the book and I was left with wanting more. I wanted to see more about Kat and her upbringing that made her the woman she was today. I wanted to see more of Dot’s battle with borderline. There were times that I thought that the relationship was rushed.
The secondary characters were amazing. I loved how they interacted with each other and moved the story along. I loved the camaraderie between the women. They all came together and stood by one another, which is wonderful to see. Girl power!!
The love scenes were steamy and there was definitely emotion between Dot and Kat. There was no denying that they had a natural chemistry. I particularly loved the last full steamy scene in the book. It was the first time I really felt the love between them. It was written perfectly.
This was a solid book for Jacquelyn Heat. I would like to see a growth in voice and more character development, but there stories are there. I would definitely pick up the next book by Jacquelyn Heat, especially if it was about some derby girls.
The one thing I will say while reading this book was that I wanted more from Kat and Dot. We really started to get to know them a little over halfway through the book and I was left with wanting more. I wanted to see more about Kat and her upbringing that made her the woman she was today. I wanted to see more of Dot’s battle with borderline. There were times that I thought that the relationship was rushed.
The secondary characters were amazing. I loved how they interacted with each other and moved the story along. I loved the camaraderie between the women. They all came together and stood by one another, which is wonderful to see. Girl power!!
The love scenes were steamy and there was definitely emotion between Dot and Kat. There was no denying that they had a natural chemistry. I particularly loved the last full steamy scene in the book. It was the first time I really felt the love between them. It was written perfectly.
This was a solid book for Jacquelyn Heat. I would like to see a growth in voice and more character development, but there stories are there. I would definitely pick up the next book by Jacquelyn Heat, especially if it was about some derby girls.
August 31, 2019
Not being a sporty person, the very existence of roller derby is something I've only noted briefly in passing. While watching a it casually for 30 seconds, one might assume it's a "sport" with one rule: bash the other women aside real hard. It always seemed like a rather violent contact sport for women with awesomely grin-making nicknames. (I love the nicknames! And don't miss this article or Sausage Roller's totally squee name website if you also like clever names.)
Anyhow, nearly-zero on the geiger counter is where things stood with my roller derby knowledge, until I got about one chapter into this story about two young artsy women, Dot and Kat, who are both like fancy chocolates: roller derby on the outside with soft squishy hearts that are oozing delicious emotion. Haha, yeah: this is a roller derby romance.
There was a moment in chapter three where I couldn't help crying; not over Dot's minor injury, but over that sparky moment of eye contact with Kat. A tiny moment, but wow. The story continued to ramp up the emotional impact; and you know there's going to be some major hiccup because romance is a bumpy ride...
Kat is an exceptional photographer, with a day-job; Dot is a sculptor who utilizes mostly found materials, and she partners in a small T-shirt business. So, aside from the developing relationship and the roller derby scenes, there is a lot of writing about art: conversation, description, musing. It all feels quite authentic; I've had similar conversations in my own life, so a lot of this resonates. The characters and their back stories are both deep and pretty scarred. Slightly romantiziced, sure, but that's part of what we love about romance! Overall, this was a great ride with interesting, passionate characters, and I loved the book from start to finish.
This appears to be an indie publication; or at least Metal Heart Press seems to only publish one book by one novelist. The writing here is really solid, especially for a first novel, I think. The copy-editing is excellent and I didn't spot a single typo. Full disclosure: I don't know the author. I obtained a copy of this for free during a Bookbub promo, but in hindsight I would gladly have paid full price. So let's say this rodent totally owes Ms Heat #54 at least one fancy coffee beverage the next time she rolls through Santa Banana.
Oh also... Before starting this book, I flipped to the e-back and read the introductory cheat-sheet about roller derby rules and jargon. If you aren't already a roller derby fan and want to read this book, you might want to check that. Or try a 20 minute documentary: Skate Fast, Hit Hard.
Anyhow, nearly-zero on the geiger counter is where things stood with my roller derby knowledge, until I got about one chapter into this story about two young artsy women, Dot and Kat, who are both like fancy chocolates: roller derby on the outside with soft squishy hearts that are oozing delicious emotion. Haha, yeah: this is a roller derby romance.
There was a moment in chapter three where I couldn't help crying; not over Dot's minor injury, but over that sparky moment of eye contact with Kat. A tiny moment, but wow. The story continued to ramp up the emotional impact; and you know there's going to be some major hiccup because romance is a bumpy ride...
Kat is an exceptional photographer, with a day-job; Dot is a sculptor who utilizes mostly found materials, and she partners in a small T-shirt business. So, aside from the developing relationship and the roller derby scenes, there is a lot of writing about art: conversation, description, musing. It all feels quite authentic; I've had similar conversations in my own life, so a lot of this resonates. The characters and their back stories are both deep and pretty scarred. Slightly romantiziced, sure, but that's part of what we love about romance! Overall, this was a great ride with interesting, passionate characters, and I loved the book from start to finish.
This appears to be an indie publication; or at least Metal Heart Press seems to only publish one book by one novelist. The writing here is really solid, especially for a first novel, I think. The copy-editing is excellent and I didn't spot a single typo. Full disclosure: I don't know the author. I obtained a copy of this for free during a Bookbub promo, but in hindsight I would gladly have paid full price. So let's say this rodent totally owes Ms Heat #54 at least one fancy coffee beverage the next time she rolls through Santa Banana.
Oh also... Before starting this book, I flipped to the e-back and read the introductory cheat-sheet about roller derby rules and jargon. If you aren't already a roller derby fan and want to read this book, you might want to check that. Or try a 20 minute documentary: Skate Fast, Hit Hard.
December 31, 2020
Beautiful, intense, inspirational story
What was the book about?
The story is told in both main characters point of view and is about Katrina Brooks “kat” who is a brilliant and very talented photographer, as well as an outstanding referee in Roller Derby. She has had a difficult life and has been basically on her own since running away from home at a young age. She has big dreams of living on what she has envisioned of her photographic work. She has a bit of a crush on Dorothy Mauser (Dot Mouse), who happens to be the most penalty-heavy skater in Crosscannon Roller Derby. Dot is a junk artist, who has the heart in the right place but a very short temper that always gets her in trouble. She believes Kat is against her and always picking on her in the games.
In an unexpected turn of events they see themselves collaborating to prepare Kat’s work for display at Crosscannon Pridefest. Dot gets to see a very different side of Kat and get to know her better. Her conception changes and a mutual attraction reveals. Will their insecurities and baggage tear them apart? Or their newfound connection will survive?
Featured Tropes: lesfic/romance/sports
ARC provided to Les Rêveur for an honest review
Full review at https://lesreveur.com/2020/02/04/kat-...
What was the book about?
The story is told in both main characters point of view and is about Katrina Brooks “kat” who is a brilliant and very talented photographer, as well as an outstanding referee in Roller Derby. She has had a difficult life and has been basically on her own since running away from home at a young age. She has big dreams of living on what she has envisioned of her photographic work. She has a bit of a crush on Dorothy Mauser (Dot Mouse), who happens to be the most penalty-heavy skater in Crosscannon Roller Derby. Dot is a junk artist, who has the heart in the right place but a very short temper that always gets her in trouble. She believes Kat is against her and always picking on her in the games.
In an unexpected turn of events they see themselves collaborating to prepare Kat’s work for display at Crosscannon Pridefest. Dot gets to see a very different side of Kat and get to know her better. Her conception changes and a mutual attraction reveals. Will their insecurities and baggage tear them apart? Or their newfound connection will survive?
Featured Tropes: lesfic/romance/sports
ARC provided to Les Rêveur for an honest review
Full review at https://lesreveur.com/2020/02/04/kat-...
September 1, 2019
Way above & beyond my expectations
“Things were going so well. She was happy, mostly. She felt safe and accepted and loved. How had this become her life?
And when was the other shoe going to drop?”
• ~ • ~ • ~ •
Definitely not the story I was expecting after reading the description… but like, wow, was this a really, really, really good book!!
This book resonated so deeply with me. As a person who has BPD & a always struggled with anxiety, emotional extremes, self-harm behaviors & dysfunctional coping with-, disproportionate responding to-, & simply existing in- every life since I was a high school teen.
I am appreciative for bringing this story to life & introducing a prohibitive & pervasive yet unknown & unappreciated disorder. It genuinely touched my heart & made me beyond grateful even moreso for the people who loved me enough to support me, stand up to me, stick with me & save me from myself—in spite of ALL my s*%t!! Thank you so much!!
“Things were going so well. She was happy, mostly. She felt safe and accepted and loved. How had this become her life?
And when was the other shoe going to drop?”
• ~ • ~ • ~ •
Definitely not the story I was expecting after reading the description… but like, wow, was this a really, really, really good book!!
This book resonated so deeply with me. As a person who has BPD & a always struggled with anxiety, emotional extremes, self-harm behaviors & dysfunctional coping with-, disproportionate responding to-, & simply existing in- every life since I was a high school teen.
I am appreciative for bringing this story to life & introducing a prohibitive & pervasive yet unknown & unappreciated disorder. It genuinely touched my heart & made me beyond grateful even moreso for the people who loved me enough to support me, stand up to me, stick with me & save me from myself—in spite of ALL my s*%t!! Thank you so much!!
August 25, 2019
Compelling!
I remember watching roller derby on TV when I was a young kid - late 50s, early 60s? Anyway, that’s all I knew about the sport, until this book. So, I still don’t understand it too well, but I do understand that I LOVED this book, which I read in one day! The characters are so well-developed, complex, and engaging. The story itself is compelling, and brought me close to tears (which I don’t do) several times. This is a great read!
I remember watching roller derby on TV when I was a young kid - late 50s, early 60s? Anyway, that’s all I knew about the sport, until this book. So, I still don’t understand it too well, but I do understand that I LOVED this book, which I read in one day! The characters are so well-developed, complex, and engaging. The story itself is compelling, and brought me close to tears (which I don’t do) several times. This is a great read!
October 4, 2019
Inspirational story.
I actually had tears in my eyes on parts of this story. I learned a lot about mental health disorders which unfortunately are becoming a reality in today's society. I also learned about roller derby which was big in the 70's. The main characters in this story were meant for each other and learned to adjust to their flaws. Great first story Jacquelyn Heat!
I actually had tears in my eyes on parts of this story. I learned a lot about mental health disorders which unfortunately are becoming a reality in today's society. I also learned about roller derby which was big in the 70's. The main characters in this story were meant for each other and learned to adjust to their flaws. Great first story Jacquelyn Heat!
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June 12, 2020My favorite thing about this novel was how flawed the main characters were. Real women learning to love and to be who they want to be. It was awesome watching Kat and Dot grow both as individuals and as partners.
I also loved the drama of pitting a passionate player with an impartial ref. The dynamic was so interesting and watching them balance these conflicting parts of themselves was a delight to read, if not an emotional roller coaster as well.
I also loved the drama of pitting a passionate player with an impartial ref. The dynamic was so interesting and watching them balance these conflicting parts of themselves was a delight to read, if not an emotional roller coaster as well.
August 25, 2019
WOW!
I loved Kat & Mouse. What a raw, emotional, exciting, beautiful love story. I decided not to worry to much about the derby lingo, just treated it as a sport I vaguely know very little about. The art, the emotional trauma and it’s toll on all of the characters was what held my attention. I will read more by this author.
I loved Kat & Mouse. What a raw, emotional, exciting, beautiful love story. I decided not to worry to much about the derby lingo, just treated it as a sport I vaguely know very little about. The art, the emotional trauma and it’s toll on all of the characters was what held my attention. I will read more by this author.
September 13, 2019
My First Jacquelyn Heat
This was my first and favorite g/g 💕 book that I really enjoyed and appreciated. The chemistry between the two females where amazing. So far the books I've written didn't have much sexual encounters to be very detailed. The storyline was delightful and exciting. Thanks
This was my first and favorite g/g 💕 book that I really enjoyed and appreciated. The chemistry between the two females where amazing. So far the books I've written didn't have much sexual encounters to be very detailed. The storyline was delightful and exciting. Thanks
September 8, 2019
Fun, great world building, fast read
Characters are vulnerable, flawed and fun. Written around a roller derby team, the characters bond over their art outside the rink.
I hope there are more adventures in store for Kat, Mouse, Lynn, Jet and crew.
Characters are vulnerable, flawed and fun. Written around a roller derby team, the characters bond over their art outside the rink.
I hope there are more adventures in store for Kat, Mouse, Lynn, Jet and crew.
October 14, 2019
Roller derby and art provide a backdrop for the development of a serious relationship between two women with complicated issues. Kat's BPD is definitely the leading problem, but Kat's family situation is not minor either. A decent set of secondary characters help bring the story to life.
March 19, 2023
Being Home
Kat and Dot are an exceptional couple. The story does bring you on an emotional roller coaster. The best part about this story is it finds both Kat and Dot finding Home with each other.
Kat and Dot are an exceptional couple. The story does bring you on an emotional roller coaster. The best part about this story is it finds both Kat and Dot finding Home with each other.
April 29, 2020
Fun
Pretty good read. I didn’t find myself invested in the characters. I’m sure other readers would though ... Give it a try.
Pretty good read. I didn’t find myself invested in the characters. I’m sure other readers would though ... Give it a try.
September 11, 2020
A sapphic roller derby romance. I got lost a bit in the technical parts of the sport, even with the primer at the end of the book but I was cheering for Kat and Dot the whole time.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews