Years ago, on the darkest night of Poppy and Zinnia’s lives, they got a letter. It was from three elderly sisters in the small town of Keeneston, inviting them to visit and if interested, take a job. The Rose Sisters had wanted to retire, but they’d wanted family to take over their small café. Poppy and Zinnia Meadows, orphaned, alone, and in danger, left in the dead of night and raced toward the hope of a future they knew may come crashing down at any moment. That moment is now.
Talon Bainbridge and Lucas Sharpe are teammates in the FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team based near Keeneston. The two friends have both fallen hard for the Meadows sisters, but suddenly the girls end what never had the chance to begin. Something was going on, but neither Poppy nor Zinnia would tell them what it was when all they wanted to do was to help the women they loved from afar.
Poppy had been hiding a secret from her older sister and everyone in Keeneston. Someone knew what happed that graduation night back in Alabama when their lives changed forever. They’d been taunting Poppy for almost a year. As they approached the anniversary of the night their lives changed, the threats had escalated. With no other option, Poppy comes clean to Zinnia. They turn to Talon and Lucas, the two men they trust most, to protect them from the past knowing they may have to sacrifice their future to do so.
Kathleen Brooks is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author. Kathleen's stories are romantic suspense featuring strong female heroines, humor, and happily-ever-afters. Her Bluegrass, Bluegrass Brothers®, Forever Bluegrass®, and Shadows Landing Series feature small-town charm with quirky characters while her Women of Power Series shows that behind every sexy billionaire is a man strong enough to love her! Then hang onto your seat for the wild and mysterious ride in the thrilling Web of Lies Series and a little magic in the Moonshine Hollow Series.
Kathleen is from Kentucky, where she graduated from Centre College and then later received her J.D. from the University of Kentucky College of Law. Kathleen still resides in Kentucky with her family and houseful of animals.
(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
The story of the Meadows sisters was different and well received in this series.
It has been said that the most feared animal is not an animal, but a human being. Sure, there are animals that inhibit fear in people, but it is the unpredictable nature that humans can possess that made this story almost seem dark. Fortunately, this story has a cast of strong characters to shine on the comfort of community and strength.
Not to offer spoilers, but I feel I need to share some thoughts...
Poppy and Zinnia Meadows were victims of a dark situation. Losing their parents by the hand of what I feel is true evil (murder), to the threat of a safe environment by an unhinged narcissist, and learning that the two were connected years later... I must say it was quite a story to tell. Throw in a corrupt power family of a small town and I have no doubt any sane person would be affected long term. Fortunately for the Meadows sisters, a small but mighty town and love managed to save the day.
If you haven't read any books in this series, this book will be better appreciated if read in succession. Take note that there are a lot of characters to keep track of, but once you immerse up yourself in the series, you become quite familiar with all the characters. Plenty of swoon worthy alpha characters, plenty of laugh out loud antics, a few moments that can bring a tear to your eyes, and an escape you will turn to with each installment. 5 stars... Highly recommended.
Forever Connected is the twentieth book in the Forever Bluegrass series (Bluegrass Book #34) 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! 📚💙
'Don't let the shadows of the past suppress the light of the future'
Lucas and Talon have their work cut out for them, Zinnia and Poppy are terrified and running from their past, from their fears and from love. Because of their past they don't understand exactly what being part of the family in Keeneston means, they cannot see past their fears to the love everyone has for them and the resources they are all more than willing to use to defend and protect them. I love how open Lucas and Talon are with their love, their hopes for the future and their support for the sisters who stole their hearts long ago, no matter what skeletons they have buried! This may not be Keeneston at it's craziest, but it is one of the best. Secrets are uncovered, corruption is unearthed and a Polar Bear is won over!
Loved, loved, loved this book! I was so glad to get back to the world of Keeneston and to all of my favorite book people.... Whose love, affection, loyalty, family quirkiness and entertaining characters have been part of my reading pleasure for many years. I was so happy to be reading Poppy and Zinnia's story at last....Kathleen Brooks' wonderful storytelling kept me glued to the story as usual! What a great book it was too...just like all her books are.. Such an uplifting, funny, heartfelt and beautiful book....filled with twists and turns, kindness, love and support, romance, some suspense, and the most amazing people. I highly recommend this book and all of her other books...all of which I have read over and over again....you will be so glad you read them too! 😇
Kathleen did an amazing job with this book. Often times, authors will lose the "shock" of the stories as they progress through a series. There is more than one moment of shock in this story. A few things I thought were coming, but a lot of things that threw me for a loop and then some. I laughed. I cried. I laughed harder. I cried more. I, also, went out and researched places mentioned in the book - it was THAT GOOD! You can't go wrong with any of Kathleen's books and won't be disappointed with this one. Oh - and for those who know - every book in this series is based in a small town with wonderful people who pick, joke, and love. The books are a great mix of humor, light suspense, light romance, and love - love of family, love of friends, and romantic love. That acceptance and friendship is probably my favorite part - after the humor. Gotta love humor!
Absolutely LOVE this author. I have read all her books. Her books suck you in from the beginning and this one is no different. I love Poppy & Zinnia and having their story together was perfect because they along with Lucas and Talon are pairs together. Their story was well kept and when it finally came out it brought the entire town together. It was so nice to see everyone together but not overpowering their stories. Like most of her books, I laughed, cried and was scared throughout the book. Not to give anything away but I think I stopped breathing at one point towards the end of the book. Thank God I was able to sigh a big relief!. I cannot wait for the next in the series. I will say I am still not convinced about Nikki I guess time will tell!
Loved this book! Zinnia and Poppy finally have to face the reason the ran from Daphne to Keeneston to take over from their aging cousins the Rose sisters. They had been there for 10 years making a new life for themselves falling in love with Lucas an Talon until their past comes calling. I have really loved this series from the very first book I read and am so happy the Rose sisters are back in action with their late in life husbands. If you love this series and spin-offs as much as I do I guarantee you won’t be disappointed! Thank you Kathleen for Zinnia’s and Poppie’s HEA and the Rose sisters. I don’t ever want them written out they are the glue for all the Keeneston stories …
Lucas is in love with Poppy and Talon is in love with Zinnia, but they can't get them to admit why they broke things off with them. Poppy has been keeping a secret from everybody. It soon becomes apparent that this secret is not going to remain hidden. When the truth comes out, Lucas, Talon and the town stand up for these 2. I had a hard time believing that with all of the abilities of the people in town, that no one had any idea what happened 10 years ago. It soon becomes apparent that Poppy and Zinnia are being targeted by sommeone from their past. They are very grateful and surprised at how much the town considers them family. Talon and Lucas get them to admit their true feelings and to depend on them to help them with this current situation.
This finally gives us the answers to so many questions we’ve been asking but some of them being, Zinnia and Poppy’s past, if Bertha was real, and can Nikki be tamed. So many parts of this story had me laughing out loud and once again wishing I could move to Keenston. I loved being able to see the flirty fun side of Talon while also seeing the serious side of Lucas. Getting to know Poppy and Zinnia on this level only made me love them more. Seeing the way theses couples were so drawn to each other even when they were broken up, showed just how real their love is. The way Talon and Lucas fought for the sisters and tried to protect them without knowing what was truly hurting them, swoon.
I love every visit back to Keeneston, but finally getting Zinnia and Poppy’s stories, yes please! And I’m so glad that their stories were done in one book, because ever since they showed up in town, my nosy self has need information!!!
This was what I wanted. We got their story, we got HRT scenes, there was an epic battle in town, Marcy used her apple pies again (IYKYK) and there was Bertha info!
There was so much going on, so many highs and lows, but it worked. These 2 have had so much happen, this story was going to be a bit crazy, but seeing certain side characters possibly changing their spots… I wasn’t expecting everything we got.
I keep thinking that these books of the people who live in Keeneston, KY can get any better, but I am once again surprised what Kathleen Brooks can do with the goings on in this town. I love Poppy and Zinnia's back story which we have been teased with in previous books when they came on the scene. It is always a quick read for me, once I start the book I can't put it down. I love that we got to visit Alaska and meet the famous 'Bertha'. Talon and Lucas are such wonderful hero's and they would not let go of the two women in their life and would battle anyone who was trying to harm them, along with all towns people.
Another wonderful story filled with romance, humor, suspenseful and mystery that is Keeneston, Ky with all its delightful town folk... I await the next book in this series!
Readers have been waiting for Zinnia and Poppy's story for a long time. They were found and brought to town to help the Rose sisters run the bed and breakfast and cafe. They were long lost relatives and fit in perfectly. Everyone suspects they have baggage but they have refused to share it and it is a doozy. My heart broke and was mended back together. The horror that was a part of their history is so sad but met with pure Keeneston triumph. I loved Nikki got her time to become a contributing community member. A few new characters have plenty of potential!
A wonderful addition from Kathleen. We get the backstory on Zinnia and Poppy and what a story. You will laugh, cry and just generally sit on you hands waiting for a conclusion. We also meet Bertha, surprises abound for Zinnia and Poppy. Talon and Lucas are two of the nicest guys and the love and protection they provide for their ladies is evident. Another successful visit to Keeneston and surprises still await several others. Looking forward to continuing stories from Kathleen.
As a reader you love a well written journey with characters you fall in love with. A book that pulls on your emotion. Has you turning each page excited to see what happens. But what is over the top is when you have 4 characters that captures you as the ultimate read of past present and future brings you to 2 hero and 2 heroines yes the all fought so the are all that. They get to feel the love all around them they get to find their true HEA. Thank you Kathleen Brooks
10 years is a long time to hide the kind of secret these two were hiding, the story finally comes out and a mystery is solved. With the whole town and the men who love them on their side, they find out that they do have a family to have their back. Loved this story and hearing about old friends in Keenston. Great job Kathleen Brooks, another winner!
They say men can't take what they dish out, and that has been proven in this book. We have waited patiently for Poppy and Zinnia's story, and it broke my heart. I wept for the disters who stuck together when others would have folded.
Zinnia was the hero because she knew what needed to be done and didn't think twice about doing it. Oh, the web was weaved, and it caught everything. Be prepared to love the connection of a lifetime and cry along the way.
If you've never read this series of books by Kathleen Brooks your really missing out. There is something for everyone, romance, comedy, mystery, family, macho military men and women. These books are my firs recommendation to anyone who asks me for a good book to read. Every one from a teen to a grandma can enjoy these books. They are simply the BEST!
I don’t know where to begin. Too many wonderful moments. I laughed and cried through this and loved how the town supported Zinnia & Poppy (though how they could have thought otherwise 🙄) I loved finding out more about Talon and Lucas too and how perfect they are for the girls. And we finally met Bertha!
This book was absolutely amazing. Poppy and Zinnia's story was soo good. Kathleen did not disappoint one bit. Going into the book I wasn't sure where it would lead but my gosh I laughed and gasped throughout the book from all the twists and turns. It was everything I expected, hoped for, and more!
I love Kathleen’s books. I laugh at the antics of the townsfolk and appreciate the suspense contained in these books. I look forward to the audiobooks too. They bring the stories to life. I definitely recommend this book, the series and the related series for fun entertainment.
Such a great book and series. I am always so sad when I finish one of MS Brooks books as I know it will be months before a new one is published. The research that is done for each book makes it real even though it is fiction. I have never read a dud book of hers. I cannot recommend a better book.
I don't know how Kathleen Brooks continues to make me love this series more with every book. This one had all the feelings and I was so thrilled to learn more about the couples I have been rooting for for a very very long time! Love this series so much❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Kathleen Brooks has done it again, I love coming back to the small Kentucky town. I love that this book encompasses two love stories and how all of the Bluegrass books include the whole town! As per usual, Forever Connected has its fair share of military speak, heorism and spice! Brava, a wonderful read yet again. Now to wait for #21, then I am not sure what I will do!
I love Kathleen Brooks' books. They are filled with humor, delightful characters, and great plots. Her books can be nail-biting suspenseful, laugh out loud humor, and love - romantic, family, and friendship. This book is an excellent example of that. Read all of her books, I highly recommend them.
Wow, monsters are out there! Child and adult same time! !cried, laughed Make your blood boil! Happy ending and Apple pies is what we all want! Read it have tissues ,wanna kick some a** But to be loved by so many even if you aren't related Did it again, Kathleen!
Kathleen Brooks has done it again. I can't wait for her books to come out. Visiting Keeneston and reading Poppy and Zinna's story was amazing. If you haven't yet read her stories, what are you waiting for? You will not regret it. I have read all of them multiple times and enjoy them every time.
Forever Connected, is another great story in the series! It's everything & more that you would want in a suspense romance. Keeps you on the edge of your seat, wanting to know what happens next. It's engaging, emotional, sexy, funny & suspenseful. I loved Zinnia & Talon - Poppy & Lucas's chemistry. Wonderful characters & small town charm. RECOMMEND!!
Wow, what a another Brilliant read from Kathleen. Poppy by and Zinnia finally get their happy ever after but it’s so sad that they had to lose two people so important to them to get it but as usual Keeneston and justice does prevail. Can’t wait to read, Kale's story
These stories are a must read, they are funny but serious and heartfelt. And the things that they do and say in these stories are absolutely laugh out loud, they are brilliantly told and capture your imagination from start to finish and leave you wanting more