What do you think?
Rate this book
Bluegrass #3
Dead Heat
Things are starting to heat up...
Paige Davies is the only girl in a family with five brothers. She can shoot, fight, and ride with the best of them. When she gets drawn into the battle for her two best friends' lives, she knows she might end up being the next target. Paige may be a proud, independent woman, but even she knows that she must find help to stay alive. But does that help really have to come from the sexy and equally confident Cole Parker?
Cole Parker is an FBI agent in Lexington, Kentucky and doesn't have time for some tough-acting country girl with killer legs after ending up in the middle of a national scandal. Neither Paige nor Cole can decide whether to strangle or kiss each other as the tension builds. As they work through the case of his career, both find that love can be tougher than bringing down some of the most powerful men in America.
This exciting conclusion to the Bluegrass Series is filled with romance, humor, and plenty of action. Make sure to pick up Bluegrass Undercover, Book One in the connected Bluegrass Brothers Series, which tells the stories of Paige's brothers.
Paige Davies is the only girl in a family with five brothers. She can shoot, fight, and ride with the best of them. When she gets drawn into the battle for her two best friends' lives, she knows she might end up being the next target. Paige may be a proud, independent woman, but even she knows that she must find help to stay alive. But does that help really have to come from the sexy and equally confident Cole Parker?
Cole Parker is an FBI agent in Lexington, Kentucky and doesn't have time for some tough-acting country girl with killer legs after ending up in the middle of a national scandal. Neither Paige nor Cole can decide whether to strangle or kiss each other as the tension builds. As they work through the case of his career, both find that love can be tougher than bringing down some of the most powerful men in America.
This exciting conclusion to the Bluegrass Series is filled with romance, humor, and plenty of action. Make sure to pick up Bluegrass Undercover, Book One in the connected Bluegrass Brothers Series, which tells the stories of Paige's brothers.
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2011
293 people are currently reading
1309 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen Brooks
122 books2,649 followersKathleen 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.
Email Notice of New Releases: www.kathleen-brooks.com/new-release-n...
Kathleen's Website: www.kathleen-brooks.com
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/KathleenBrooksAuthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/BluegrassBrooks
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/5101707...
Fb Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Kathl...
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
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.
Email Notice of New Releases: www.kathleen-brooks.com/new-release-n...
Kathleen's Website: www.kathleen-brooks.com
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/KathleenBrooksAuthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/BluegrassBrooks
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/5101707...
Fb Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Kathl...
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
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 288 reviews
January 16, 2016
These are my reasons why I gave this a one star.
1. The writing is too immature.This feels like a bad fanfiction or God forbid, feels like a teenager writes this story in Wattpad.
2. I know that this is the third book in the series, but is it too much to ask for a proper introduction?
3. The heroine is an idiot. She acts without thinking and easily jumps to conclusions. The hero just got a call and she immediately accuses him of being married.
4. The hero feels fake. No Feebie acts that way, honey. You told the heroine to act devasted when you went out of the hospital so that the killer (who you thinks may be watching) will get the idea that his targets are dead and that you can put your arm over her shoulder? Smooth, fuckboy, smooth.
5. Flat characters. Flatter than my cleavage.
You know what, I'm not going to read any of the books in this series. I'm done. I have enough of idiots for a day.
June 10, 2016
This was my first and last visit to the small town of Keeneston, Kentucky. The summary looked interesting and the rating was up there so I picked it up for one of my challenge books. I knew I was in trouble early on. Let's start with the very unrealistic characters.
Paige is a small town shopkeeper who designs hats and other accessories for women. She's also a too-good-to-be-true heroine who does everything perfectly...shooting, riding horses, administers first aid, drives like Daisy Duke, etc., etc. She takes a lunch break and walks toward the local diner to meet her friends when she sees a gun barrel appear on a roof across the street. Her mega-super vision sees the shooter's finger move to the trigger and she screams to warn her two friends who've just exited the courthouse, but it's too late. Instead of ducking for cover or running to check on her friends, she runs toward the shooter. Why? How in the world did she plan to stop him? Maybe she was going to sell him a hat to stall him, or dazzle him with her polka dot hair bow...who knows. By the time she caught up with him, I was too flabbergasted by the other characters that I no longer cared.
The shooter gets away and everyone gathers around the injured women. These people include, Sheriff Red, the Rose sisters-Violet, Lily and Daisy, and Deputy Dinky. No lie. Deputy Noodle and Deputy Smalls were securing the scene. The names in this book were just as rediculous as the dialogue, which was forced and awkward. The author needs to do a bit more research on hospital & law enforcement procedures as well. Every time I turned the page there was something bizarre to take me out of the story. At one point I laughed so hard at the stupidity that I had tears rolling down my face, especially during the scenes in the ER while Will and Mo (Mo's a sheik...for reals) hold vigil with Paige and Cole for their significant others. Here's an example:
Okay. She was shot with what I'm assuming is a high powered sniper rifle. It would have to be to cover that kind of distance. Her shoulder would be blown apart, but no...he makes it sound like she was shot with a precision laser beam that left a perfectly clean hole from one side to the other. The doctor goes on to answer questions about the other girl and then as he's leaving, stops abruptly and announces:
Paige is a small town shopkeeper who designs hats and other accessories for women. She's also a too-good-to-be-true heroine who does everything perfectly...shooting, riding horses, administers first aid, drives like Daisy Duke, etc., etc. She takes a lunch break and walks toward the local diner to meet her friends when she sees a gun barrel appear on a roof across the street. Her mega-super vision sees the shooter's finger move to the trigger and she screams to warn her two friends who've just exited the courthouse, but it's too late. Instead of ducking for cover or running to check on her friends, she runs toward the shooter. Why? How in the world did she plan to stop him? Maybe she was going to sell him a hat to stall him, or dazzle him with her polka dot hair bow...who knows. By the time she caught up with him, I was too flabbergasted by the other characters that I no longer cared.
The shooter gets away and everyone gathers around the injured women. These people include, Sheriff Red, the Rose sisters-Violet, Lily and Daisy, and Deputy Dinky. No lie. Deputy Noodle and Deputy Smalls were securing the scene. The names in this book were just as rediculous as the dialogue, which was forced and awkward. The author needs to do a bit more research on hospital & law enforcement procedures as well. Every time I turned the page there was something bizarre to take me out of the story. At one point I laughed so hard at the stupidity that I had tears rolling down my face, especially during the scenes in the ER while Will and Mo (Mo's a sheik...for reals) hold vigil with Paige and Cole for their significant others. Here's an example:
Okay. She was shot with what I'm assuming is a high powered sniper rifle. It would have to be to cover that kind of distance. Her shoulder would be blown apart, but no...he makes it sound like she was shot with a precision laser beam that left a perfectly clean hole from one side to the other. The doctor goes on to answer questions about the other girl and then as he's leaving, stops abruptly and announces:
July 9, 2017
5 Dead Heat Stars
I loved that this series ended with Paige & Cole. I kind hoped it would be Mo’s body guard but you never know he might get his book yet.
I love that Paige has all these brothers and Cole was the first to not be scared off by them or by Paige, I say that because she is a tomboy in a lot of ways and a total girly girl in others.
I think I loved that Cole was always there for Paige even when she thought it was all for show for him it never was.
Again this town is fantastic. I love the blue hairs. I love the friendship the 3 girls have.
Its just a sweet romance with a kick.
And again Eric G. Dove kills this narration; he totally brings this whole series to life. Loved it.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
I loved that this series ended with Paige & Cole. I kind hoped it would be Mo’s body guard but you never know he might get his book yet.
I love that Paige has all these brothers and Cole was the first to not be scared off by them or by Paige, I say that because she is a tomboy in a lot of ways and a total girly girl in others.
I think I loved that Cole was always there for Paige even when she thought it was all for show for him it never was.
Again this town is fantastic. I love the blue hairs. I love the friendship the 3 girls have.
Its just a sweet romance with a kick.
And again Eric G. Dove kills this narration; he totally brings this whole series to life. Loved it.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
May 14, 2013
I am so glad I found this author. It's amazing how many really good authors are indies. This book is the third in the series and I am impressed by how much Kathleen has grown in so short a time as an author. I liked the first one, the second one was even better and this one the best. I'm looking foward to seeing what she has in store for us after this.
These books take place in Kentucky in a small town where everyone knows everyone else and looks out after each other. After reading these books, I want to live in a town like this. I loved all the main characters but liked this last couple the best. I loved Paige's brothers and how they tried to protect her. I even liked the three old busybody sisters and found them really funny.
This author has one tiny quirk that bothers me some. She very rarely uses contractions. It makes it awkard to read. But even some of my oldtime favorites had their quirks, it's what makes them who they are. Patricia Cornwell wrote in the present tense, that bothered me but I use to love her books, until she used up her main character, Kay Scarpetta. Johnathon Kellerman was one of my favorites but it bothered me the way he described, in detail, how the main character got from one part of L.A. to the other.
I guess if I had to sum up all three of these books, I would say that their characters are all lovable and compliment each other, so it is a fine study in character development that we could all learn from. It's hard to believe that this is only her third book!
These books take place in Kentucky in a small town where everyone knows everyone else and looks out after each other. After reading these books, I want to live in a town like this. I loved all the main characters but liked this last couple the best. I loved Paige's brothers and how they tried to protect her. I even liked the three old busybody sisters and found them really funny.
This author has one tiny quirk that bothers me some. She very rarely uses contractions. It makes it awkard to read. But even some of my oldtime favorites had their quirks, it's what makes them who they are. Patricia Cornwell wrote in the present tense, that bothered me but I use to love her books, until she used up her main character, Kay Scarpetta. Johnathon Kellerman was one of my favorites but it bothered me the way he described, in detail, how the main character got from one part of L.A. to the other.
I guess if I had to sum up all three of these books, I would say that their characters are all lovable and compliment each other, so it is a fine study in character development that we could all learn from. It's hard to believe that this is only her third book!
August 14, 2020
Paige Davies and FBI Agent Cole Parker can be infuriating at times, but I love both of them separate and together. There was humor in this one, suspense, romance (of course) and I thought that they each had a good balance.
Paige witnesses a murder so from there we can only imagine what she's going to go through, so the reader will likely find himself or herself going on this journey with Paige, gasping in parts, having heart-racing moments, and maybe even talking out loud telling her "NO!" or whatever.
Cole Parker? What's not to love? His past isn't the best but that's in the past. He's a hero in my book. He's hot, very sensual and sexual, and the romance is good between them. But I might add that they do have their roller coaster ride and it isn't all smooth to get to that good place.
Paige witnesses a murder so from there we can only imagine what she's going to go through, so the reader will likely find himself or herself going on this journey with Paige, gasping in parts, having heart-racing moments, and maybe even talking out loud telling her "NO!" or whatever.
Cole Parker? What's not to love? His past isn't the best but that's in the past. He's a hero in my book. He's hot, very sensual and sexual, and the romance is good between them. But I might add that they do have their roller coaster ride and it isn't all smooth to get to that good place.
August 4, 2023
This is the last of the Bluegrass Series books. The story is nicely wrapped up. This book is centered on the relationship of Paige and Cole (Agent Parker). It fast paced as the previous and I liked very much the character development and description of the forming relationship between the main characters.
It was again(!) a great read and I'm looking forward to the next books in the Bluegrass universe - following the stories of Paige's brothers.
It was again(!) a great read and I'm looking forward to the next books in the Bluegrass universe - following the stories of Paige's brothers.
March 19, 2013
final chapter in the crazy story. KB keeps the story flowing and not dragging it out so you don't get bored adding new twists to the situation. She also adds more characters in the book that you can read about in a separate series about Paige's brothers. Paige and Cole are great together love the chemistry! Love Chuck the dog! his scenes are great and made me laugh :)
January 13, 2017
Best of the trilogy. I actually teared up in the beginning. This romance was my favorite even if Cole never ended up being a very useful FBI protector.
(Although the overreacting crazy ex-prom-queen was a bit too cliche I wish I skipped her parts. They were eye-roll worthy and a had horrible dialogue.)
(Although the overreacting crazy ex-prom-queen was a bit too cliche I wish I skipped her parts. They were eye-roll worthy and a had horrible dialogue.)
July 19, 2019
I felt like the romance between Paige and Cole was so so, found Paige's reaction to Cole more fun than their romance. What really kept me going on this one was how things got resolved with the whole McKenna/Dani situation and how Paige was drawn in. I was glad to see that the girls were able to beat all the powerful men.
December 8, 2020
This is such a quick series to read. This book is probably my favorite in the first 3 books.
I really like the chemistry between Cole and Paige. I like how she isn't afraid of being herself, even if she still acts like she is in high school!
I like the suspend in to the story and how everything finally comes to an end for Paige, Kenna and Dani.
I really like the chemistry between Cole and Paige. I like how she isn't afraid of being herself, even if she still acts like she is in high school!
I like the suspend in to the story and how everything finally comes to an end for Paige, Kenna and Dani.
October 13, 2017
MYSTERY AND ROMANCE! I love it!
June 28, 2020
The third book starts where the second ended and we finally get to know what happens after the sniper shooting. When I started the trilogy, I knew the third book was about Paige and Cole but I was wondering what part Paige will be playing since only Kenna and Dani were witnesses to the crime in New York. Well, now I know and it was an interesting angle. I have to say that Paige was a bit annoying with her quick temper and always on the fence as soon as Cole says something but it was still a very good book and the New York crime is solved. I think I will read the brothers' stories soon because this setting and the writing is too good to leave behind. 4.5 stars for this finish.
January 3, 2016
Dead Heat is the 3rd book in the Bluegrass Series by Kathleen Brooks. The main storyline is continued from the previous two books and both the main characters were also introduced in the previous books. I really liked both Paige and Cole in the previous books and was really looking forward to their book.
I still like both the characters but the storyline was SO UNBELIEVABLE I just kept grimacing as I read it. A sniper who shot both of Paige's friends is after her because she can identify him. So Cole moves in with her pretending to be her boyfriend. Okay, but then she basically just goes on with her life and as long as Cole is with her they act like she's safe - FROM A SNIPER? It's not like he has to get up close and personal to kill her so I just don't get how she's safe because Cole is with her. Also for a professional killer who has killed 22 other people he sure does miss a lot! Not only that but he falls for a fake obituary and doesn't even check the hospital or wonder why the significant other's of the two women he "killed" are constantly at the hospital? I don't want my villain to be inept or stupid because then I never have suspense that the heroine is in any danger.
I also would have liked a bit more of the fun back and forth between Cole and Paige. However, I still enjoyed the book I just wanted more and a some more believability. I've heard good things about the Bluegrass brothers books so I'll probably try one of those books to see how they are before giving up on this author.
I still like both the characters but the storyline was SO UNBELIEVABLE I just kept grimacing as I read it. A sniper who shot both of Paige's friends is after her because she can identify him. So Cole moves in with her pretending to be her boyfriend. Okay, but then she basically just goes on with her life and as long as Cole is with her they act like she's safe - FROM A SNIPER? It's not like he has to get up close and personal to kill her so I just don't get how she's safe because Cole is with her. Also for a professional killer who has killed 22 other people he sure does miss a lot! Not only that but he falls for a fake obituary and doesn't even check the hospital or wonder why the significant other's of the two women he "killed" are constantly at the hospital? I don't want my villain to be inept or stupid because then I never have suspense that the heroine is in any danger.
I also would have liked a bit more of the fun back and forth between Cole and Paige. However, I still enjoyed the book I just wanted more and a some more believability. I've heard good things about the Bluegrass brothers books so I'll probably try one of those books to see how they are before giving up on this author.
March 12, 2012
This is the third book in the Bluegrass series. After reading the first book I bought the next two in this romantic suspense series. I enjoyed reading all the books. This on ties up the story of Kenna & Dani's New York experience along with letting us get better acquainted with Paige & Agent Cole. Now if we could just get more of Ahmed's story...
Paige Davies finds her world turned upside down as she becomes involved in her best friends' nightmare. The strong-willed Paige doesn't know which is worse: someone trying to kill her, or losing her dog to the man she loves to hate.
FBI Agent Cole Parker can't decide whether he should strangle or kiss this infuriating woman of his dreams. As he works the case of his career, he finds that love can be tougher than bringing down some of the most powerful men in America
Paige Davies finds her world turned upside down as she becomes involved in her best friends' nightmare. The strong-willed Paige doesn't know which is worse: someone trying to kill her, or losing her dog to the man she loves to hate.
FBI Agent Cole Parker can't decide whether he should strangle or kiss this infuriating woman of his dreams. As he works the case of his career, he finds that love can be tougher than bringing down some of the most powerful men in America
April 12, 2012
I am really enjoying this series, however, I don't like the cussing, and sex. The sex is always just the brief start, and then the morning after. These books are not well edited, and it kind of bugs me. I love the characters. Not for my teen daughter. Paige and Cole fight it, but they are very much in love. Will they survive an assassin trying to kill her because she witnessed him shoot two of her friends? Will Cole last through the interrogation from her brothers?
August 8, 2012
The third book in this series brings it all home!
The book starts off literally a few seconds before the last book ended.
The characters make you laugh, cringe and genuinely love to watch them as Paige and Cole spar through out the book.
I'm sad to see this aspect of the series come to an end. But - Bluegrass now begins with the stories of the Davies brothers!
Definately glad I grabbed the 1st in the series and have been more than pleasantly suprized.
The book starts off literally a few seconds before the last book ended.
The characters make you laugh, cringe and genuinely love to watch them as Paige and Cole spar through out the book.
I'm sad to see this aspect of the series come to an end. But - Bluegrass now begins with the stories of the Davies brothers!
Definately glad I grabbed the 1st in the series and have been more than pleasantly suprized.
June 4, 2012
I liked this one even more than the second book. Paige is quite funny, but her brothers are hilarious. Cannot wait for their stories! Still no word on Ahmed's love interest but I hope it comes in the Bluegrass Brothers series.
While this story could have been flushed out more...it was quick and I did laugh quite a bit.
While this story could have been flushed out more...it was quick and I did laugh quite a bit.
June 17, 2012
After the big cliffhanger at the end of book two, I HAD to get book three. I liked the chemistry here. And Agent Cole Parker sounds yummy. But I wanted to wring Paige's neck for all the chances she took, constantly leaving her aparmtment alone, knowing there was an assassin loose! And if she owns a gun and she's such a good shot, why would that gun be in her truck instead of at her side?
May 11, 2012
The third book in the series, it is good to see all the pieces come together, finally sees the sparks from Paige and Cole, and meet Paige's 4 brothers. A quick read, great characters, but not a series I would recommend jumping into midstream - read the books in order!!!
June 4, 2012
Excellent conclusion to the trilogy. Keeps you on the edge of your seat and tugs at your heart at the same time.
July 28, 2014
Love this author. Love this series.
December 5, 2015
Review to follow.
December 22, 2021
Re-Read 2021
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loved how Paige and Cole were like cats and dogs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loved how Paige and Cole were like cats and dogs.
September 14, 2020
Loved it! Great story! Loved the characters and the town. Especially the Rose sisters!
June 29, 2021
Kathleen Brooks is back with her third book from Bluegrass Series. Her first two books included Bluegrass State of Mind and the Risky Shot. Her stories usually revolve around strong female protagonist with a blend of romance and thriller and a pinch of humor and happy-endings. Her Bluegrass Series and Bluegrass Brothers Series feature small town charm with quirky characters while her Women of Power Series depict that behind a sexy billionaire is a man strong enough to love her!
This book is about Paige Davies who finds her world turned upside down when she gets involved in her best friend Mc Kenna’s controversy. The strong-willed Paige doesn’t know which is worse: someone trying to kill her, or losing her dog to the man she loves to hate. FBI Agent Cole Parker gets into the jargon of protecting Paige from the assassin. In the due course of events , he falls in love with Paige Davies , but it is usually difficult to express his affection for her openly. As he works the case of his career, he finds that love can be tougher than bringing down some of the most powerful men in America.
Dead Heat begins with Paige Davies witnessing an attempted murder to her chasing the shooterand being the only person who can identify him. Kathleen Brooks does a fine job of getting your heart racing right from the start in this book and pretty much keeps it up throughout. With Paige in danger, FBI agent (and Paige’s nemesis), Cole Parker, must protect her so she’ll be able to identify and testify once he’s caught.
I love, love books where the hero/heroine have had a less than stellar past and then all of a sudden they can’t seem to keep their hands off each other. Keep in mind this is a romance so while we don’t “see” the loving’, it’s there and these two spend a lot of time making up for lost time.
Paige is another tough, smart heroine. She owns her own business and even though it’s somewhat “girly”, after being raised with five brothers she’s no slouch. She can out run, out shoot and out maneuver most anyone and she has no problem showing that side of herself. What I love is that Cole embraces both sides of Paige and even compliments her when she beats him. You have to admire a man who’s not afraid of a strong woman. Cole also holds his own against her parents and her brothers and if you think the FBI are good at interrogating; you should meet the Davies family!
During this story the case against Kenna and Dani’s ex-employers and their associates comes to a head and this puts all three women in a lot of danger. This of course drives their very alpha men to the edge and back especially since their women are all determined and strong willed. These women, despite all they’ve been through don’t back down, they fully intend to see these people brought to justice.
I’d like to say that Paige and Cole have an easy road to their happily ever after but given Paige’s independence and Cole’s tendency to smother her, that isn’t the case. But, they do manage to work through their problems and in the end head towards a happily ever after. While that is satisfying, I was even happier that the ongoing case was finally brought to trial and justice prevailed. I didn’t realize I’d been holding my breath until that case was settled.
Dead Heat is a fantastic wrap-up to this series. Not only were the bad guys dealt with, but three wonderful women met the men of their dreams and together they will all enjoy life in this little Kentucky town.
This book is about Paige Davies who finds her world turned upside down when she gets involved in her best friend Mc Kenna’s controversy. The strong-willed Paige doesn’t know which is worse: someone trying to kill her, or losing her dog to the man she loves to hate. FBI Agent Cole Parker gets into the jargon of protecting Paige from the assassin. In the due course of events , he falls in love with Paige Davies , but it is usually difficult to express his affection for her openly. As he works the case of his career, he finds that love can be tougher than bringing down some of the most powerful men in America.
Dead Heat begins with Paige Davies witnessing an attempted murder to her chasing the shooterand being the only person who can identify him. Kathleen Brooks does a fine job of getting your heart racing right from the start in this book and pretty much keeps it up throughout. With Paige in danger, FBI agent (and Paige’s nemesis), Cole Parker, must protect her so she’ll be able to identify and testify once he’s caught.
I love, love books where the hero/heroine have had a less than stellar past and then all of a sudden they can’t seem to keep their hands off each other. Keep in mind this is a romance so while we don’t “see” the loving’, it’s there and these two spend a lot of time making up for lost time.
Paige is another tough, smart heroine. She owns her own business and even though it’s somewhat “girly”, after being raised with five brothers she’s no slouch. She can out run, out shoot and out maneuver most anyone and she has no problem showing that side of herself. What I love is that Cole embraces both sides of Paige and even compliments her when she beats him. You have to admire a man who’s not afraid of a strong woman. Cole also holds his own against her parents and her brothers and if you think the FBI are good at interrogating; you should meet the Davies family!
During this story the case against Kenna and Dani’s ex-employers and their associates comes to a head and this puts all three women in a lot of danger. This of course drives their very alpha men to the edge and back especially since their women are all determined and strong willed. These women, despite all they’ve been through don’t back down, they fully intend to see these people brought to justice.
I’d like to say that Paige and Cole have an easy road to their happily ever after but given Paige’s independence and Cole’s tendency to smother her, that isn’t the case. But, they do manage to work through their problems and in the end head towards a happily ever after. While that is satisfying, I was even happier that the ongoing case was finally brought to trial and justice prevailed. I didn’t realize I’d been holding my breath until that case was settled.
Dead Heat is a fantastic wrap-up to this series. Not only were the bad guys dealt with, but three wonderful women met the men of their dreams and together they will all enjoy life in this little Kentucky town.
May 6, 2025
3 Stars
Dead Heat is the third book in the Bluegrass series 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! 📚💙
Dead Heat is the third book in the Bluegrass series 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! 📚💙
May 30, 2020
Audio book review.
Alright, I still enjoy these characters and this town, and I would be interested in reading on, but I'm sort of hesitant to, because the book ended on a nice happy ending note. No real loose ends.
However, let me list all the ways this book is bad. The main characters have an assassin after them from the very beginning, yet they are completely idiotic in their actions regarding personal protection. Failed assassination attempt? Whew, glad that's over. The guy got away, but let's take the dog for a walk. Or let's go on a romantic date out to a restaurant or to a horse racetrack. Idiotic. There is someone literally trying to kill you, came very close a few times, and you have no regard for staying in and taking extra security measures?? Oh, and the assassin is totally incompetent. Probably a dozen shots fired on the main character at a fairly close range, even stopping to aim, and nothing hits....I'm not looking for anyone to get their head blown off, but who the hell hired this guy?? Oh, but the cherry on top of everything wrong with this book, the main character is so completely tone-deaf, she actually says something like "Who knew getting shot at would boost sales. No wonder rappers do it." I can't even....
Like I said, there are things I enjoy about this book, the characters in general (both major and minor), the setting, the story, but the specifics of these characters and their choices, it just falls apart under scrutiny. And I've had about enough masculine posturing and jealousy to last a lifetime. I would recommend if you can get past the glaring flaws in this installment. Would recommend the series as a whole. The mystery arc through the three books was entertaining. Ooh, and so was Candy, probably my favorite snarky love-to-hate character in a while. Right up there with Whitney from book 1. I just love to see a horrible bitchy character fall flat on her face.
Alright, I still enjoy these characters and this town, and I would be interested in reading on, but I'm sort of hesitant to, because the book ended on a nice happy ending note. No real loose ends.
However, let me list all the ways this book is bad. The main characters have an assassin after them from the very beginning, yet they are completely idiotic in their actions regarding personal protection. Failed assassination attempt? Whew, glad that's over. The guy got away, but let's take the dog for a walk. Or let's go on a romantic date out to a restaurant or to a horse racetrack. Idiotic. There is someone literally trying to kill you, came very close a few times, and you have no regard for staying in and taking extra security measures?? Oh, and the assassin is totally incompetent. Probably a dozen shots fired on the main character at a fairly close range, even stopping to aim, and nothing hits....I'm not looking for anyone to get their head blown off, but who the hell hired this guy?? Oh, but the cherry on top of everything wrong with this book, the main character is so completely tone-deaf, she actually says something like "Who knew getting shot at would boost sales. No wonder rappers do it." I can't even....
Like I said, there are things I enjoy about this book, the characters in general (both major and minor), the setting, the story, but the specifics of these characters and their choices, it just falls apart under scrutiny. And I've had about enough masculine posturing and jealousy to last a lifetime. I would recommend if you can get past the glaring flaws in this installment. Would recommend the series as a whole. The mystery arc through the three books was entertaining. Ooh, and so was Candy, probably my favorite snarky love-to-hate character in a while. Right up there with Whitney from book 1. I just love to see a horrible bitchy character fall flat on her face.
March 3, 2020
Dead Heat was actually a pretty decent finale of the storyline setup in the first two books. The author did a good job of getting the story to focus on Paige while still maintaining a connection to Kenna and Danielle. My biggest issue with the book is just how much of a total spaz Paige was in the book when it came to Cole. I didn’t feel like it was within the character that was developed in the first two books.
Goodness does this book start to drag and drag hard in the middle of the book. The books starts right where book two ended and then it hits a very huge yield sign and just kind of trudges along. Not only does the story trudge on but so does any progress in the relationship between Cole and Paige. The author then decides to do a quick wrap up with one heck of an action scene and then does a couple of chapters to wrap up the Cole and Paige issues.
I also liked getting to know Paige’s family a little more and her brothers’ stories will make a great book series.
I’m glad the narrator stayed the same throughout the book it really helped to get me back in the story after a long break from the first two books.
Goodness does this book start to drag and drag hard in the middle of the book. The books starts right where book two ended and then it hits a very huge yield sign and just kind of trudges along. Not only does the story trudge on but so does any progress in the relationship between Cole and Paige. The author then decides to do a quick wrap up with one heck of an action scene and then does a couple of chapters to wrap up the Cole and Paige issues.
I also liked getting to know Paige’s family a little more and her brothers’ stories will make a great book series.
I’m glad the narrator stayed the same throughout the book it really helped to get me back in the story after a long break from the first two books.
December 13, 2019
Late summer I started my Kathleen Brooks book spree reading all her Bluegrass series.
I have to say that these books are highly entertaining, there was never a dull moment because although Keenston is a small town, it's the capital of high crime - assassins, drug rings, dog fighting groups, spies, corporate takeovers and so on and so on. The stories were totally unrealistic but at the same time extremely addictive. I needed to know what would happen to other family members, their friends and relatives. I loved how almost every story had a dog, again sometimes totally unrealistic, but at the same time the most memorable character of the book.
I've read other reviews and know other readers have had problems with these books. Well, I don't know anything about firearms, so I didn't notice any of the mistakes.
Would I live in Keenston? - No way. The town was under siege so many times I lost count but the people were great - nosy, friendly, and supportive.
I have to say that these books are highly entertaining, there was never a dull moment because although Keenston is a small town, it's the capital of high crime - assassins, drug rings, dog fighting groups, spies, corporate takeovers and so on and so on. The stories were totally unrealistic but at the same time extremely addictive. I needed to know what would happen to other family members, their friends and relatives. I loved how almost every story had a dog, again sometimes totally unrealistic, but at the same time the most memorable character of the book.
I've read other reviews and know other readers have had problems with these books. Well, I don't know anything about firearms, so I didn't notice any of the mistakes.
Would I live in Keenston? - No way. The town was under siege so many times I lost count but the people were great - nosy, friendly, and supportive.
May 8, 2018
2.5 rounded up
This review will have spoilery stuff.
So this book was okay. The reason I've rounded up is because there were enough laugh out loud parts that I wasn't overly frustrated. It was mostly just "okay" though. Some major eye rolling parts. IE: Paige jumping to the conclusion that Cole was married because of some phone call deal. I didn't get it. Nor did I understand what the big deal was about him buying her a vacuum as a gift.
Narrator:
Eric G Dove- 3 stars- Mostly he's good, until the female parts (OTT) or the male parts (he sounds extra gruff, why not just continue in your regular voice?). His grunts and chuckles just pull me right out of the story, so I could do without those sound effects. I don't feel he's right as the narrator for the series, I feel a female would've been better. There are a lot parts of the book that were more from the female POV.
This review will have spoilery stuff.
So this book was okay. The reason I've rounded up is because there were enough laugh out loud parts that I wasn't overly frustrated. It was mostly just "okay" though. Some major eye rolling parts. IE: Paige jumping to the conclusion that Cole was married because of some phone call deal. I didn't get it. Nor did I understand what the big deal was about him buying her a vacuum as a gift.
Narrator:
Eric G Dove- 3 stars- Mostly he's good, until the female parts (OTT) or the male parts (he sounds extra gruff, why not just continue in your regular voice?). His grunts and chuckles just pull me right out of the story, so I could do without those sound effects. I don't feel he's right as the narrator for the series, I feel a female would've been better. There are a lot parts of the book that were more from the female POV.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 288 reviews