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Jackson Parker has seen evil first hand as a Tier 1 government asset with the FBI Hostage Rescue Team. After months of black ops work overseas, he’s finally coming home for a break. But with Keeneston’s wedding of the century, a stowaway on the run, and a plot that could kill thousands of civilians, Jackson gets anything but rest and relaxation. Especially when the stowaway turns out to be the love of his life and is in the sights of a mass killer.

Evie Scott is running from evil. She’d tried to warn the authorities, but now it’s too late. Her only option is running. But he found her like he always did. She had never felt safe before. But being in Keeneston and with a man she’d fallen for might do the trick.

One escape. One chance to live. One man who will do anything to protect her. And one chance to love.

338 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 21, 2020

357 people are currently reading
249 people want to read

About the author

Kathleen Brooks

124 books2,664 followers
Kathleen Brooks is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author. Kathleen's stories are romantic suspense featuring strong female heroines, humor, and happily-ever-afters. Her Bluegrass, Bluegrass Brothers®, Forever Bluegrass®, and Shadows Landing Series feature small-town charm with quirky characters while her Women of Power Series shows that behind every sexy billionaire is a man strong enough to love her! Then hang onto your seat for the wild and mysterious ride in the thrilling Web of Lies Series and a little magic in the Moonshine Hollow Series.

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


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

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

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

(Bluegrass Fire Series-ongoing)
Spark

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ratings & Reviews

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5 stars
1,091 (75%)
4 stars
289 (20%)
3 stars
55 (3%)
2 stars
6 (<1%)
1 star
2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
3 reviews
January 21, 2020
Love love love Kathleen Brooks! This book is like returning home after being away so long and reminding you that "there no place like home" So much lol moments. Really love the small town vibes, someone always has your back.
Profile Image for Marie.
5,274 reviews53 followers
October 15, 2020
A wedding and a bomber on the loose!

....So just a normal day in Keeneston!
Jackson is an expert interrogator, thoughtful, sexy and intense he can interrogate my body anytime he likes...but he only has eyes for Evie. She fills his mind, his imagination, his needs, she is everything he wants for his future but can he protect her long enough to claim her?
Evie knows she has baggage, baggage full of death and destruction, but that doesn't stop her hoping....for the first time ever she has hope for herself, for a future.
I love Keeneston, I wish I could live there! Where else will you find 'Spark! Sensual oil, a leather purse to carry your throwing axe in, a community betting pool, a sexy ninja pastor, long lost family and love and protection offered with no question? Only Keeneston!
Profile Image for Carmen Alicea.
876 reviews16 followers
January 21, 2020
Sexy Jackson

I've loved Jackson and I couldn't wait for him to get his own story. This series has everything you need to be entertain. Jackson is a wonderful man. You know he's a keeper by the way he loves his family.

Evie has been hiding and suffering. She doesn't know who to trust. The minute she mets Jackson the attraction is explosive. They have a wonderful connection.

This story teaches you never judge a person without getting to know them better. Evie did everything she could to get someone to listen to her. She was stunned by Jackson's help and support. I absolutely recommend this amazing story.
Profile Image for Katy.
1,516 reviews6 followers
September 7, 2021
Another Keeneston, KY story with the sons and daughters of the Bluegrass boys--Evie's and Jackson's story

43 reviews2 followers
February 27, 2020
Love all the Kentucky based books!!! Can’t wait till the next one comes out!
Profile Image for Ria Pace.
11 reviews
January 21, 2020
What can I say but yet another book from Kathleen Brooks that I absolutely luved!
If you want something that could happen in real life, with all the drama, action and romance this is for you.
Jackson is a badass who saves lives as hostage negotiator and is there for his family and friends,
Evie is in need of serious help as the police and FBI won't listen to her and finds herself in shadows landing, passing out drinks at his cousins bar and it goes from there..... don't want give anything away now do I 😊
Hope you enjoy her books much as I and other fans do.
980 reviews4 followers
January 21, 2020
Great 40th book for Mrs. Brooks.

I love her writing and the sense of family she puts into each book.

Jackson needs a break and Evie was running for her life. These two meet and both are wanting to know more about the other. Just would not be a Keeneston store without some action and someone in trouble.

Can't wait to see what comes with Jace!
Profile Image for Jo.
1,921 reviews17 followers
January 26, 2020
the more u read the less magic you have.

it’s good when you see their fathers and mother action, their uncle n auntie too.

in the second generation, some of them are great but most of them just the repeated lines with different name.

i m not sure how the series end, maybe all of us feel boring and never take a look again.
Profile Image for Mindy Reis.
78 reviews
January 26, 2020
I can't get enough of Kathleen's books

Kathleen is my favorite all time author. They are funny, keeps you entertained and guessing what will come next. I can't wait for Jace to find love and Nikki to pop all her plastic lol. Love love love you Kathleen 10 ***************************** or more lol
Profile Image for Cati Bedsworth.
66 reviews8 followers
February 6, 2020
I have read every single book of Kathleen Brooks and I just can never get enough. She has the amazing ability to keep you wanted more. You want to know all about the people of Keeneston!

I've said this with each and every one but Jackson is my new favorite.
Profile Image for Janet Faes.
217 reviews
May 3, 2021
Another adventure where the girl needs saving. I like these books (or I wouldn’t still read the after 30+ books) but even when the girl is strong the guy is stronger.
Profile Image for Angela.
8,769 reviews123 followers
May 6, 2025
3.5 Stars

Forever Freed is the thirteenth book in the Forever Bluegrass series (Bluegrass Book #27) 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! 📚💙
670 reviews2 followers
November 2, 2020
Another amazing book!

I absolutely love this series! Have read them all ( including Shadows Landing). I think this is the only book that left things hanging which i really dont like.....1) how did her brother keeping finding her? A tracker on her car? 2) if her name and picture was on the news and alerts how did no one catch it in SL? and she just disappeared on Harper was it explained ? 3) her car had a bullet hole in her windshield and no one saw or caught it as she drove across country? 4) what happened to the FBI agent that blew her off? 5) for such a close knit town that strangers stand out. How did so many “watchers” not be caught and plant, spiders, snipers, bombs without being seen? The minute anyone drives in the town the rumor mill flies.....still a great story!
Profile Image for Amanda Gilmore.
354 reviews1 follower
November 16, 2020
Overall Amanda score: A+

FINALLY JACKSON!!! Oh my heart as well as other parts of me that were excited to read his story.
Jackson: sexy, smart, sexy, perfect, strong, handsome.... and did I mention sexy?? His character is absolutely perfect.
Evie: She is so adorable, her character, her everything. She almost makes me think of a small little mouse scared in the forest. But I mean she gets Jackson... so... yeah.
The plot in this book was beyond perfect. I loved how it was up to date on real life problems that we sadly are facing these days. Her brother being this anarchy of the government bomber, trying to kill her for knowing too much... I mean this book hit real feels.
All the previous characters were still their perfect selves. I still absolutely love Aniyah. I am sad that she never got her own book, and yet it was perfect since she added glitter to all the previous books and will continue to do that.

This book was really good y'all.
4,279 reviews
May 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I LOVE THIS AUTHOR!!

Forever Freed introduces Jackson Parker, a government agent on a much-needed break, who’s soon thrust into a dangerous mission when he encounters Evie Scott—a woman on the run from a ruthless killer. Their chemistry is palpable as they navigate a life-threatening situation while trying to protect their love.
This book combines high-octane action with emotional depth, as Jackson and Evie’s relationship develops under extreme pressure. The suspense is relentless, and the stakes are incredibly high. Brooks masterfully crafts a story of survival and love, ensuring Forever Freed is a thrilling addition to the series that will keep readers at the edge of their seats.
Profile Image for LeeAnn Lewis.
323 reviews2 followers
August 25, 2020
I continue to love the suspense that runs through these true romance stories! I can't get enough of this series. Evie walks into a plot planning meeting to blow up several prominent places, ends up running for her life, and meeting the right person to help her and change her life. Jackson is wanting to unwind after another mission, goes to visit relatives in South Carolina. Something about Evie just speaks to Jackson. Loved the way this story unfolds! Kathleen Brooks has another winner.
Profile Image for Michele A..
3,159 reviews16 followers
November 10, 2020
Jackson and Evie meet by change in Shadows Landing and sparks fly. Too bad Evie's reality comes crashing down on her and causes both of them to question each other's feelings. Although this book did have some great moments with these 2, I felt it was overshadowed by another wedding taking place. Although Aniya and DeAndre are a great couple, I felt they should have had their own book and not been incorporated into this one.
434 reviews11 followers
October 13, 2020
Great read!

Forever Freed by Kathleen Brooks is another great addition to the Forever Bluegrass series. The story is well written and interesting story. I love seeing the whole Keeneston gang.
38 reviews
July 18, 2023
Yay Evie

Axe throwing is a lost art, but the Keeneston team seems to have revitalized it along with a few other lost arts. I love the broom jumping for The Drew's, and the new representative incoming so that Riley can concentrate on herself and the baby.
Profile Image for Pamela.
1,257 reviews12 followers
April 9, 2024
Awesome read

You know you are reading a goid book when you have strong characters that pull you in. Two people falling in love and the final thing is a wild happy ending for not one but two couples. Kathleen Brooks just keeps bring you amazing books
15 reviews
September 10, 2020
Love the families

I love reading Kathleen Brooks’ just to enjoy the families of Kensington. Who don’t love the Rose sisters? Always a good laugh.
131 reviews
December 28, 2020
Oh my stars

I laughed so hard. Thought I was going to end up on the floor. This was a fantastic story. Really detailed, heartwarming, and touching all at once.
43 reviews
January 4, 2021
I am such a huge fan of Kathleen Brooks! Each book hooks you in. Guaranteed fun, suspense and romance.
28 reviews
May 20, 2021
Bluegrass

Another great addition to a fabulous series. I can’t wait to see what happens to everyone in the future. The kind of series I’ll read over and over
2 reviews
November 28, 2021
Amazing

Evie and Jacksons story was great. Suspenseful, funny and even made me tear up! I absolutely love the town and keenston and this story fit perfectly!
518 reviews3 followers
December 24, 2021
A thrill a minute.

Wonderfully crafted characters and action that moves a a breakneck speed make this impossible to put down. A must read if you love action, humor, and animals.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews

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