Trusting Lorelei: Navigations

by Layla Hawke

The Georgian Dominion provides the Trust Service, a prison system where Dominions can send prisoners who've received life sentences. Members of the Trust Service are proud of their work as they seek rehabilitation of prisoners while keeping other Dominions safer. The A new commissioner, Dakin is frustrated by his feelings for Lorelei, a prisoner in the section reserved for the worst felons. How could he possibly love a prisoner? Why does she claim that rehabilitation is completely out of the question? And the world isn't helping as conspiracies and secrets begin to emerge from the shadows.

263 pages, Paperback

Published April 30, 2025

Reviews

[Jas Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trusting Lorelei by Layla Hawke is another fantastic instalment in her Navigations Series – in fact, it might be my favourite so far after reading and loving several of the others. This story is set in the Georgian Dominion, a society that provides prison services to other Dominions for those sentenced to life imprisonment. Known as the Trust Service, one of their main missions is rehabilitation – though their methods are sometimes way too zealous. Told through the eyes of Dakin, a new “commissioner” whose role is to oversee some of the inmates and help with the rehabilitation process, and Lorelei, a newly arrived prisoner, the dual perspective gives a balanced insight into both characters’ experiences and emotions. Their immediate connection complicates everything between them, and as they work together to uncover the strange events unfolding within the prison, the story deepens into one of conspiracy, betrayal, loyalty, and hope.

As always in this series, there’s more at play beneath the surface of a gripping story. The novel explores gender discrimination, corruption, power, and morality – asking what happens when those in charge prioritise profit and control over people and planet. Through the lens of this world, Layla Hawke reflects the injustices and dangers present in our own. The writing here is again completely immersive, with vivid atmosphere, perfect pacing, authentic dialogue, and as always, fantastic world building. Trusting Lorelei is a wonderful addition to an already amazing series!