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Kenzie Gilmore #2
Dead Heat
An undercover assignment turns into a deadly race for survival…
When the key witness in a high-profile trial is shot and killed the day before he can testify, Kenzie jumps at the chance to investigate.
She infiltrates the loan shark’s inner circle, only to find she’s in deeper than she intended.
When her cover is blown, Kenzie is not only racing to stop a killer, but also to stay alive.
Reid had no idea when he separated two brawling men in bar that one of them was going to turn up dead — or that he’d become the prime suspect in his murder.
Now, tasked with finding the real killer, he delves into the murky world of racketeering, as well as an unsolved mystery that might have links to the case.
Then Kenzie goes missing…
...and everything falls apart.
Reid must use all his skills and ingenuity to find her before it’s too late. But with the killer still on the loose, every second counts…
When the key witness in a high-profile trial is shot and killed the day before he can testify, Kenzie jumps at the chance to investigate.
She infiltrates the loan shark’s inner circle, only to find she’s in deeper than she intended.
When her cover is blown, Kenzie is not only racing to stop a killer, but also to stay alive.
Reid had no idea when he separated two brawling men in bar that one of them was going to turn up dead — or that he’d become the prime suspect in his murder.
Now, tasked with finding the real killer, he delves into the murky world of racketeering, as well as an unsolved mystery that might have links to the case.
Then Kenzie goes missing…
...and everything falls apart.
Reid must use all his skills and ingenuity to find her before it’s too late. But with the killer still on the loose, every second counts…
314 pages, Paperback
First published February 7, 2022
1121 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Biba Pearce
45 books252 followersBiba Pearce is an award-winning, internationally published crime author, known for crafting gripping, atmospheric mysteries. She is the bestselling author of multiple series including DCI Rob Miller, Kenzie Gilmore and Shrap Nelson. Her work has been recognized by the Feathered Quill and the CWA Debut Dagger awards, and The Marlow Murders was named Best Crime Fiction Book at the 2024 Indie Excellence Book Awards.
Website: bibapearce.com
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Website: bibapearce.com
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Facebook: @authorbibapearce
TikTok: @authorbibapearce
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Facebook Reader Group: facebook.com/groups/bibasthrillseekers
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
December 29, 2023
I LOVE THIS SERIES!
March 16, 2024
This is my favorite book (of these legal thrillers). Excellent writing and excellent character development.
February 10, 2022
“Breath-Taking and Addictive!”
Another great story in the Gilmore Kenzie thriller and this one is the second one in the series which continues to develop the relationship between Kenzie and Reid.
It is a gripping story about a very high profile trial in which the main witness is shot dead before he can reach the trial and Kenzie picks up on the story. To do this she has to infiltrate a loan sharks inner circle with disastrous results as her cover is blown. At the same time Reid is caught up with the murder as he is involved with separating two men fighting in his local bar with one of the men turning up dead the following day and becomes the number one suspect despite having a reliable witness to say otherwise. Whatever Reid does to prove his innocence the local police seem to disregard and try to fabricate and prove otherwise.
When the two cases collide and seem connected to racketeering with police and wealthy locals all connected both Kenzie and Reid lives are in real danger.
When Reid then suddenly disappears Reid has to use all his skills and contacts to save not only Kenzie but himself. Not n easy task especially when the cards dealt are all against them.
The tension and action is from page one to the end and it has got a very unexpected ending too! You are drawn into the story from the very first page, turning page after page to get to the truth. Brilliant read as always from Biba and a must read and highly recommended.
Another great story in the Gilmore Kenzie thriller and this one is the second one in the series which continues to develop the relationship between Kenzie and Reid.
It is a gripping story about a very high profile trial in which the main witness is shot dead before he can reach the trial and Kenzie picks up on the story. To do this she has to infiltrate a loan sharks inner circle with disastrous results as her cover is blown. At the same time Reid is caught up with the murder as he is involved with separating two men fighting in his local bar with one of the men turning up dead the following day and becomes the number one suspect despite having a reliable witness to say otherwise. Whatever Reid does to prove his innocence the local police seem to disregard and try to fabricate and prove otherwise.
When the two cases collide and seem connected to racketeering with police and wealthy locals all connected both Kenzie and Reid lives are in real danger.
When Reid then suddenly disappears Reid has to use all his skills and contacts to save not only Kenzie but himself. Not n easy task especially when the cards dealt are all against them.
The tension and action is from page one to the end and it has got a very unexpected ending too! You are drawn into the story from the very first page, turning page after page to get to the truth. Brilliant read as always from Biba and a must read and highly recommended.
May 23, 2024
Still like the characters, but this one was sloppy
I still enjoyed the main characters in this story, but the was a lot of convenient coincidence, even though the characters often say they don't believe in such. There was also some factual sloppiness that detracted from the story. For example, one of the settings involved a bowling alley that was named "Bill's Bowling Alley." That would never be the case, was such establishments are almost always called either "Lanes" or "Bowling Centers." Also, the participants were repeatedly referred to as having "played" such isn't appropriate either. One doesn't "play bowling"; instead, they "bowl". Also, at a party where there were a lot of well known people, one of them was referred to as a "football manager." While that is a correct title for the leader of a soccer team, such an individual would not be considered well known in the U.S. The American version of football hasn't "coaches" not "managers". Finally, the leader character's old contact in the police department, who had gotten a fellow officer killed and then covered up evidence of a murder by has partner in another case, later gave in to a rather lame appeal to do the right thing by dropping a charge he had filed against the secondary lead character. That seemed extremely unlikely.
After a thoroughly enjoyable first entry in this series, I really hope the next one is more solidly researched and written. If not, I'll probably be moving in from this author.
I still enjoyed the main characters in this story, but the was a lot of convenient coincidence, even though the characters often say they don't believe in such. There was also some factual sloppiness that detracted from the story. For example, one of the settings involved a bowling alley that was named "Bill's Bowling Alley." That would never be the case, was such establishments are almost always called either "Lanes" or "Bowling Centers." Also, the participants were repeatedly referred to as having "played" such isn't appropriate either. One doesn't "play bowling"; instead, they "bowl". Also, at a party where there were a lot of well known people, one of them was referred to as a "football manager." While that is a correct title for the leader of a soccer team, such an individual would not be considered well known in the U.S. The American version of football hasn't "coaches" not "managers". Finally, the leader character's old contact in the police department, who had gotten a fellow officer killed and then covered up evidence of a murder by has partner in another case, later gave in to a rather lame appeal to do the right thing by dropping a charge he had filed against the secondary lead character. That seemed extremely unlikely.
After a thoroughly enjoyable first entry in this series, I really hope the next one is more solidly researched and written. If not, I'll probably be moving in from this author.
January 15, 2022
Absolutely brilliant!
Great second book in the Kenzie Gilmore series. The characters really draw you in, with the sometimes reckless but always determined, Kenzie and the smouldering, efficient (ex) detective Reid Garrett, as the main ones that make me love to read this series.
Some new leads on Kenzie's mother's disappearance, have her and Reid finding out what actually happened to her - it is not what I expected, complex doesn't do it justice!
Separately, Kenzie is investigating a powerful business man, come loan shark, who seems to navigate his way out of any legal case brought against him - Kenzie is like a dog with a bone, will she ever learn to stay away from danger, methinks not!
A page-turning, exciting and thrilling book, with great characters - what more do you need?
I received an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Great second book in the Kenzie Gilmore series. The characters really draw you in, with the sometimes reckless but always determined, Kenzie and the smouldering, efficient (ex) detective Reid Garrett, as the main ones that make me love to read this series.
Some new leads on Kenzie's mother's disappearance, have her and Reid finding out what actually happened to her - it is not what I expected, complex doesn't do it justice!
Separately, Kenzie is investigating a powerful business man, come loan shark, who seems to navigate his way out of any legal case brought against him - Kenzie is like a dog with a bone, will she ever learn to stay away from danger, methinks not!
A page-turning, exciting and thrilling book, with great characters - what more do you need?
I received an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 19, 2023
not good
How many times do the characters “run their hand through their hair”? Answer: every chapter.
The main cop protagonist complains every chapter of corrupt rule breaking cops, meanwhile, he violates every possible crime scene rules and lets the journalist he has a crush on join them on executing a search warrant, and gives her inside information on ongoing investigations. Total hypocrite.
Journalist protagonist runs around making accusations with zero evidence.
Bad guys basically just “roll over” and admit they did it even though nobody can prove it without their admission.
How many times do the characters “run their hand through their hair”? Answer: every chapter.
The main cop protagonist complains every chapter of corrupt rule breaking cops, meanwhile, he violates every possible crime scene rules and lets the journalist he has a crush on join them on executing a search warrant, and gives her inside information on ongoing investigations. Total hypocrite.
Journalist protagonist runs around making accusations with zero evidence.
Bad guys basically just “roll over” and admit they did it even though nobody can prove it without their admission.
February 9, 2022
Suspenseful and twisty plot.This was a great read. Kenzie and Reid have really good chemistry and their characters are realistic. Multiple storylines will pull you in from the first page. Reid is arrested for murder and has to prove his innocence. Kenzie is still searching for the answers to her mother’s disappearance. Together they are investigating a powerful man who continues to allude justice. Powerful and taut ending with a huge surprise. Loved this book and recommend the series. Actually recommend all the books written by Biba Pearce!
November 30, 2021
This is my first book of this author, but it certainly not my last, I have already purchased more books. It's a very strong story line, good descriptive and full of twist and turns and surprises. The book certainly has you captured from the beginning. A book you just want to sit and read to the end, very well written. A book I enjoyed reading.
This is my non biased honest review of a arc book I was pleased to receive.
This is my non biased honest review of a arc book I was pleased to receive.
March 8, 2022
Fast-paced! Riveting! Emotional! Suspenseful! Compelling! Complex! This book brings it ALL! It was an artful melding of twisted psychological thrills and nail-biting suspense. THIS is how you successfully keep a series interesting and keep your readers wanting more!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
April 9, 2023
One of my fave murder mystery series.
So good. Love that we get a case of the “week” in each book but also that Kenzie and Reid also has their own personal mysteries they want solved.
I’m a huge romance reader so I love romantic suspense. And I’m not usually a slow burn romance reader but I’m liking the slow burn in this since they have major chemistry and I love the plots and what’s going on with them individually.
So good. Love that we get a case of the “week” in each book but also that Kenzie and Reid also has their own personal mysteries they want solved.
I’m a huge romance reader so I love romantic suspense. And I’m not usually a slow burn romance reader but I’m liking the slow burn in this since they have major chemistry and I love the plots and what’s going on with them individually.
January 8, 2024
Torn
2.5 overall - There were a couple of parts of this story I really enjoyed. The majority, however, just fell flat for me. The dialogue is so juvenile (Reed was so angry. He just wanted to punch his lights out.....) He is a grown man, not a teenager... Then, once again, you have what is supposed to be a super smart character (Kenzie), making such poor and stupid decisions simply to move the plot forward.
2.5 overall - There were a couple of parts of this story I really enjoyed. The majority, however, just fell flat for me. The dialogue is so juvenile (Reed was so angry. He just wanted to punch his lights out.....) He is a grown man, not a teenager... Then, once again, you have what is supposed to be a super smart character (Kenzie), making such poor and stupid decisions simply to move the plot forward.
January 30, 2024
CAUTION: AUTHOR ADDICTION
I'd love to be in this Author's head, just to meet all her characters!! But, I'm very happy that she lets them tell their stories, in their own words and timing. WHEW!
I've stayed up late...until dawn! Read with a morning coffee, and used time for this book as a 'treat' for finishing a 'task'..LoL
TOTALLY WORTH IT!! THANKS, BIBA!!
(AMAZON says my husband read it, and he probably will, but this was a "CHICK-PICK"!
Bobi
I'd love to be in this Author's head, just to meet all her characters!! But, I'm very happy that she lets them tell their stories, in their own words and timing. WHEW!
I've stayed up late...until dawn! Read with a morning coffee, and used time for this book as a 'treat' for finishing a 'task'..LoL
TOTALLY WORTH IT!! THANKS, BIBA!!
(AMAZON says my husband read it, and he probably will, but this was a "CHICK-PICK"!
Bobi
March 13, 2025
The final Victory
How Kenzie attracted Reid was a coup de grace, maneuvering him and became his right arm with little effort. He rescued her several times and she repaid him in kind by using her knowledge to give him more insight in his recovery. She humanized him and Had faith in him accomplishing his own battles. Well written with much insight into the worlds of print and law. Enjoyed the play between the two main characters.
How Kenzie attracted Reid was a coup de grace, maneuvering him and became his right arm with little effort. He rescued her several times and she repaid him in kind by using her knowledge to give him more insight in his recovery. She humanized him and Had faith in him accomplishing his own battles. Well written with much insight into the worlds of print and law. Enjoyed the play between the two main characters.
November 10, 2021
This series is my absolute favourite. I have loved each book. This one is so amazing. I loved every word. Kenzie and Reid are so perfect together. He as a detective and she as an investigative reporter. There is lots going on in this book but the Author seamlessly ties everything together. Please write the next instalment quickly! Thanks to the Author for my ecopy. This opinion is my own.
February 10, 2022
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review
February 23, 2022
great teamwork
Working three separate cases, some active and some cold. Many threads to the story, but it all comes together in one great ending. Loved the action and crime solving. The friendship and team developments. The secrets they found were some doozies and the characters fantastic. A great story that I could not put down. Loving this series!
Working three separate cases, some active and some cold. Many threads to the story, but it all comes together in one great ending. Loved the action and crime solving. The friendship and team developments. The secrets they found were some doozies and the characters fantastic. A great story that I could not put down. Loving this series!
January 22, 2024
Dear Heat heating up
Bona Pearce writes a believable, current story. Pearce writes a story that you want to continue. Dead Heat has multiple story lines that are plausible and are interesting enough to keep you turning pages. I can' t wait to see how Reid and Kenzie's relationship progresses!
Bona Pearce writes a believable, current story. Pearce writes a story that you want to continue. Dead Heat has multiple story lines that are plausible and are interesting enough to keep you turning pages. I can' t wait to see how Reid and Kenzie's relationship progresses!
September 21, 2024
Love fictional journalist mysteries
I've read the first 2 books of this series. They are extremely good. Well defined characters and logical plotting leading to surprising results. I really enjoy fiction involving fictional journalists as the feature character. I've already purchased the entire series and look forward to Kenzie and Reid's next adventure.
I've read the first 2 books of this series. They are extremely good. Well defined characters and logical plotting leading to surprising results. I really enjoy fiction involving fictional journalists as the feature character. I've already purchased the entire series and look forward to Kenzie and Reid's next adventure.
February 4, 2022
Dead Heat is the second book in the Kenzie Gilmore Thriller series. This book has strong characters and is filled with action, danger, and suspense. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this gripping series.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
May 16, 2022
Ten stars for this one
This was very organized and flowed very smoothly from one scene to the next. It was easy to understand and follow. I was glued to this one from start to finish. A very good book!
This was very organized and flowed very smoothly from one scene to the next. It was easy to understand and follow. I was glued to this one from start to finish. A very good book!
December 12, 2022
Started the Kenzie series after reading the Rob Miller books and have to say, enjoying these just as much!
Very easy to read, lots of twists and surprising endings!
Can't wait to read the next one!
Very easy to read, lots of twists and surprising endings!
Can't wait to read the next one!
December 27, 2022
The ex-detective and the investigative journalist look into Kenzie's mother's disappearance cold case is interrupted by a cold-blooded murder almost in Reid's back yard. Fast-paced action with twists I didn't expect. I'm liking this series!
July 30, 2023
It was a good, easy read. The building attraction between the two main characters is a plus. I’m not analyzing the police work at this point. I think Reid is a really good cop, Kenzie is somewhat annoying in that reporter type of way. I am hoping Reid finds his niche.
March 27, 2025
Several mysteries in one all connected
It was a very exciting book. Enjoyed the characters and their interactions. The areas enforced were areas I recognized which made the stories more real.
It was a very exciting book. Enjoyed the characters and their interactions. The areas enforced were areas I recognized which made the stories more real.
June 6, 2025
Another Interesting Storyline
I really like these two main characters, Kenzie and Reid... A good dynamic and engaging characters! I was a little dismayed at the easy reveal of the culprit but overall very enjoyable!
I really like these two main characters, Kenzie and Reid... A good dynamic and engaging characters! I was a little dismayed at the easy reveal of the culprit but overall very enjoyable!
November 9, 2025
Great series
I didnt.think i was going to like it as.I was reading the first book but here I am loving the 2nd story and moving on. The story has all the elements of criminals, police, a love story beginning and lots of drama..
I didnt.think i was going to like it as.I was reading the first book but here I am loving the 2nd story and moving on. The story has all the elements of criminals, police, a love story beginning and lots of drama..
January 12, 2026
Great read!
I love a good Who Done It and this author has provided it. The first book, Afterburn, had me hooked from the start. This book didn't disappoint either. The next one, Heatwave, is waiting for me! Happy reading to any who read them!!
I love a good Who Done It and this author has provided it. The first book, Afterburn, had me hooked from the start. This book didn't disappoint either. The next one, Heatwave, is waiting for me! Happy reading to any who read them!!
January 24, 2026
This was the 2nd book in the series and, although I still like the pairing of Kenzie and Reid to work on cases, there wasn’t much character development and their cases in this book weren’t as interesting.
November 9, 2021
I'm really loving this series. The characters are great but it's the intricate ongoing plotlines that really keep me reading. Not your typical detective thriller!
November 29, 2021
A well written mystery that I couldn’t put down. Great cast of characters, full of action with an unexpected ending. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews