What do you think?
I killed a man.
That’s what they charged me with after finding me in the woods with a bloody knife, a dead body, and no memory of how I got there.
The case was over before it began…
until Ryker Kincaid stepped in.
Chicago’s most ruthless defense attorney.
My brother’s best friend.
The only man I ever loved.
He shouldn’t touch me.
Shouldn’t move me into his penthouse.
Shouldn’t look at me like I’m something worth saving.
But he does.
Ryker believes I’m innocent, and he’s risking everything to prove it.
His career. His reputation. His heart.
The price he demands is the truth.
Every secret. Every dark corner of my past.
But I learned a long time ago that honesty makes people leave.
I survived them all walking away.
I won’t survive losing Ryker.
So when the truth finally surfaces, there’s only one question
Will Ryker choose to stay…
or will I lose the only man who ever made me believe I was worth loving?
From an International & Amazon Top 25 Bestselling Author, DOUBT is a brother’s best friend romance featuring a grumpy, morally gray defense attorney.
✔️ Brother’s Best Friend Forbidden Romance
✔️ “Touch Her and Die” Energy
✔️ Possessive, Protective, Morally Gray Hero
✔️ Grumpy Hero
✔️ Secrets, Lies & Hidden Pasts
✔️ Forced Proximity & Protective Sanctuary
Standalone. Addictive, edge-of-your-seat HEA.
Trigger Please visit the author’s website for the full list.
That’s what they charged me with after finding me in the woods with a bloody knife, a dead body, and no memory of how I got there.
The case was over before it began…
until Ryker Kincaid stepped in.
Chicago’s most ruthless defense attorney.
My brother’s best friend.
The only man I ever loved.
He shouldn’t touch me.
Shouldn’t move me into his penthouse.
Shouldn’t look at me like I’m something worth saving.
But he does.
Ryker believes I’m innocent, and he’s risking everything to prove it.
His career. His reputation. His heart.
The price he demands is the truth.
Every secret. Every dark corner of my past.
But I learned a long time ago that honesty makes people leave.
I survived them all walking away.
I won’t survive losing Ryker.
So when the truth finally surfaces, there’s only one question
Will Ryker choose to stay…
or will I lose the only man who ever made me believe I was worth loving?
From an International & Amazon Top 25 Bestselling Author, DOUBT is a brother’s best friend romance featuring a grumpy, morally gray defense attorney.
✔️ Brother’s Best Friend Forbidden Romance
✔️ “Touch Her and Die” Energy
✔️ Possessive, Protective, Morally Gray Hero
✔️ Grumpy Hero
✔️ Secrets, Lies & Hidden Pasts
✔️ Forced Proximity & Protective Sanctuary
Standalone. Addictive, edge-of-your-seat HEA.
Trigger Please visit the author’s website for the full list.
468 pages, Paperback
First published February 12, 2026
About the author
Kathy Lockheart
27 books1,243 followers★ Amazon Top 25 bestselling author ★
Kathy Lockheart is an Amazon Top 25 bestselling author and Kindle Unlimited All-Star of Suspenseful Romance novels. Her books—which have a unique blend of emotional elements typically found in women’s fiction and the romance and danger elements found in romantic suspense—contain themes that include dark romance antiheroes, enemies to lovers alpha tropes, and forbidden romance angst. When she’s not writing, you can find her silently cursing the person who put fluorescent lights in dressing rooms.
SINNERS AND SAINTS
Crash
Power
Bound
Doubt
Trust
VENDETTA DUET
Secret Vendetta
Silent Vendetta
CROSS DUET
Crossfire
Crossover
SECRETS AND THE CITY
Deadly Illusion
Fatal Cure
Lethal Justice
Grave Deception
Join Kathy’s VIP Team ➜ https://kathylockheart.com/join-my-vi...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kathy...
Main links ➜https://kathylockheart.com/mainlinks
Facebook➜ http://bit.ly/LockheartFB
Website ➜ www.KathyLockheart.com
Instagram➜ https://www.instagram.com/kathy_lockh...
TikTok ➜ https://www.tiktok.com/@kathylockhear...
Kathy Lockheart is an Amazon Top 25 bestselling author and Kindle Unlimited All-Star of Suspenseful Romance novels. Her books—which have a unique blend of emotional elements typically found in women’s fiction and the romance and danger elements found in romantic suspense—contain themes that include dark romance antiheroes, enemies to lovers alpha tropes, and forbidden romance angst. When she’s not writing, you can find her silently cursing the person who put fluorescent lights in dressing rooms.
SINNERS AND SAINTS
Crash
Power
Bound
Doubt
Trust
VENDETTA DUET
Secret Vendetta
Silent Vendetta
CROSS DUET
Crossfire
Crossover
SECRETS AND THE CITY
Deadly Illusion
Fatal Cure
Lethal Justice
Grave Deception
Join Kathy’s VIP Team ➜ https://kathylockheart.com/join-my-vi...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kathy...
Main links ➜https://kathylockheart.com/mainlinks
Facebook➜ http://bit.ly/LockheartFB
Website ➜ www.KathyLockheart.com
Instagram➜ https://www.instagram.com/kathy_lockh...
TikTok ➜ https://www.tiktok.com/@kathylockhear...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 347 reviews
March 27, 2026
☝️First and foremost, I want to make perfectly clear that I love Kathy Lockheart and I love her books and her writing.
However..... this one did not work for me. And that's ok, because not all releases can be top-notch. That said....
I think Kathy Lockheart botched the beginning of this book. It killed the momentum for me and I found myself putting the book down and picking it up more times than I was comfortable with.
Apparently, the book continues where it left off in Book 3, which I skipped because Axel was a manwhore 💅. (If you are a GR friend you'll know that I don't tolerate the manwhore trope and I avoid it like the plague). Anyway, those who haven't read Book 3 are caught off guard by the fact that Ryker and Faith first met in Book 3, had a ONS or a fling or whatever kids call it these days 🙄, Ryker for some reason is already obsessed with her while Faith kept him at a distance because of personal issues.
My constant inner thoughts were "wait what?" 😳, "when did that happen?" 🤔.
Ryker turned, and the transformation stole my breath. The lethal predator who’d just gone toe to toe with Rodriguez vanished. In his place stood the same man who’d stepped between me and that creep in Axel’s lobby, who’d been ready to break bones without hesitation. The same man who’d held me in that elevator when my world tilted sideways, his voice in my ear, promising everything would be okay.
So when did that 👆 happen?! 🤔🤷♀️
I don't want to be told that they already felt mutual attraction, I want to read about it. And, unfortunately, we didn’t get that in this book. And to be honest, the book just lost me. I felt I was constantly trying to catch up and fill in the blanks.
This was Ryker: my defender, my protector, the man who looked at me like I was something precious in a world full of broken glass.
Ok, when did that happen? I'm at 13% and he's already her protector? Her defender? She's his something precious? WHEN DID THAT EVEN HAPPEN? AND WHY AM I MISSING OUT ON WHAT MATTERS? THE BEGINNING!!!! 😤😤
But this is Kathy Lockheart. And well, we get bits and pieces of Knox and his MFC in this book so I didn’t want to miss out like what happened with Faith and Ryker. So after Book 2, the series is interconnected and cannot be read as standalone.
Later on in the book at around 20% and forward, we get some flashbacks of when they started getting it off. But still in those flashbacks, their feelings were already very intense. There was no buildup. It did not feel realistic at all.
I am not going to pretend I know how this paralegal world works especially when there is a suspect, a trial and a case to be defended but common sense makes me think they wasted so much time trying to prove her innocence when all they did was steal a touch, a kiss, a look! I mean, get a room folks AFTER she's proven innocent and STOP. WASTING. TIME! 🙄 they never had a deep thorough conversation about what happened, her past, what might prove her innocent....etc It was so passed over and not taken seriously.
God I am dissecting this book like an insect in highschool Biology Lab.
Also, KL is trying too hard to make us swoon for Ryker's inner thoughts. He's only known Faith for a month, A MONTH! They kissed twice and had a ONS. And he's already head over heels, obsessed, in complete adoration phase! His inner thoughts resemble something like this: "Brilliant brave woman. God she's honourable and admirable! What a warrior! So fierce!..." you get the idea.. better keep a tissue at hand to wipe Ryker's drool 🤤 throughout the book.
To me so much emphasis on his unjustified feelings for her is forced and not at all organic so I am absolutely not sold on their relationship.
🩷🩷That scene with Harper and Faith getting sh*t faced is the best thing in the whole book hahahaha Harper I am already in love with you!!! Can't wait to read your story and knox's 🥰🥰🥰🤗🤗🤗
“But here’s the thing: If I let you abandon Faith to save my own ass, what kind of man does that make me? What kind of father? The kind who teaches his daughter that you throw people under the bus when it’s convenient?” He shook his head. “No. If I ever do get to see her again, I want to be able to look her in the eye and know I did the right thing. Even when it cost me everything.” The conviction in his voice, the selflessness … it was so purely Knox that my throat tightened. “Faith’s life is on the line right now.” He knocked on the table twice. “We don’t leave family behind. And Blake’s sister? She’s family.”
If Knox didn't already have my heart, this, THIS 👆, would have made it a done deal!
Even though I appreciate Kathy Lockheart's attempt at showing us what it is like to be a human, our vulnerabilities, our doubts, our weaknesses in Ryker's constant growing doubt, but to be honest, if it weren't for Knox? I think Ryker would have dropped Faith faster than a lit C4. On two occasions, it was Knox who cleared Ryker's doubts, on two ocassions, it was Knox who reminded Ryker that family always comes first and they don't leave anyone behind. His self sacrifice was detrimental in shaping Ryker's opinion of Faith and setting off the chain effect of who Ryker could really be.
Ryker leaned against the wall, arms crossed, watching me with an intensity that made the air hum around me. The afternoon light caught the sharp angles of his jaw, the way his eyes tracked my every movement as I tended to the dog. There was something raw in his expression beyond concern. Fascination maybe, like he was seeing me again through a beautiful light. The warrior who’d fight for the defenseless, even when she couldn’t fight for herself.
👆 These types of inner thoughts annoy me. Presumption, PHD level of psychoanalytical thinking or maybe a profiler 🤔 I don't want my MFC thinking the MMC is melting in a puddle of adoration because that is how she reads his expression!
Guilt spread through my sternum. Maybe if I’d been focused on Faith’s case instead of throwing punches on her lawn, I’d actually know what this woman was talking about.
That pretty much sums up all the time wasted by Ryker and Faith. Instead of building a case for her defence, they were too busy making googly eyes at each other or fist fighting other people for her sake. 🙄
The whole scene at the end with the Judge was so unnecessary!
Ok last but not least, I think this book was the weakest in the series. I was not sold on their relationship. I was not sold on the whole "defending-her-case" and now more than ever I hate Axel with a Passion. His jokes were so childish and so out of place.
End of rant.
2026 Bingo Challenge 🥳
#21 Title contains the words always or forever (Ok, so these two words might not have been in the title but this phrase right here 👉 was detrimental in shaping the MFC's reality, so obviously I used Shaz's hammer 🔨 to make it fit! But always had ended the next day. Christmas Eve. A drunk driver and a patch of black ice, and always became never again.)
🟣|🟣|36|46|🟣|40|🟣|23|
🟣|🟣|🟣|🟣|🟣|🟣|🟣|🔴|
18|26|55|33|🟣|🟣|🟣|🟣|
🟣|05|43|60|🟣|🟣|13|38|
🟣|🟣|29|15|09|🟣|22|19|
10|🟣|🟣|28|54|🟣|56|🟣|
🟣|🟣|51|07|🟣|24|32|53|
🟣|49|20|🟣|39|🟣|41|11|
However..... this one did not work for me. And that's ok, because not all releases can be top-notch. That said....
I think Kathy Lockheart botched the beginning of this book. It killed the momentum for me and I found myself putting the book down and picking it up more times than I was comfortable with.
Apparently, the book continues where it left off in Book 3, which I skipped because Axel was a manwhore 💅. (If you are a GR friend you'll know that I don't tolerate the manwhore trope and I avoid it like the plague). Anyway, those who haven't read Book 3 are caught off guard by the fact that Ryker and Faith first met in Book 3, had a ONS or a fling or whatever kids call it these days 🙄, Ryker for some reason is already obsessed with her while Faith kept him at a distance because of personal issues.
My constant inner thoughts were "wait what?" 😳, "when did that happen?" 🤔.
Ryker turned, and the transformation stole my breath. The lethal predator who’d just gone toe to toe with Rodriguez vanished. In his place stood the same man who’d stepped between me and that creep in Axel’s lobby, who’d been ready to break bones without hesitation. The same man who’d held me in that elevator when my world tilted sideways, his voice in my ear, promising everything would be okay.
So when did that 👆 happen?! 🤔🤷♀️
I don't want to be told that they already felt mutual attraction, I want to read about it. And, unfortunately, we didn’t get that in this book. And to be honest, the book just lost me. I felt I was constantly trying to catch up and fill in the blanks.
This was Ryker: my defender, my protector, the man who looked at me like I was something precious in a world full of broken glass.
Ok, when did that happen? I'm at 13% and he's already her protector? Her defender? She's his something precious? WHEN DID THAT EVEN HAPPEN? AND WHY AM I MISSING OUT ON WHAT MATTERS? THE BEGINNING!!!! 😤😤
But this is Kathy Lockheart. And well, we get bits and pieces of Knox and his MFC in this book so I didn’t want to miss out like what happened with Faith and Ryker. So after Book 2, the series is interconnected and cannot be read as standalone.
Later on in the book at around 20% and forward, we get some flashbacks of when they started getting it off. But still in those flashbacks, their feelings were already very intense. There was no buildup. It did not feel realistic at all.
I am not going to pretend I know how this paralegal world works especially when there is a suspect, a trial and a case to be defended but common sense makes me think they wasted so much time trying to prove her innocence when all they did was steal a touch, a kiss, a look! I mean, get a room folks AFTER she's proven innocent and STOP. WASTING. TIME! 🙄 they never had a deep thorough conversation about what happened, her past, what might prove her innocent....etc It was so passed over and not taken seriously.
God I am dissecting this book like an insect in highschool Biology Lab.
Also, KL is trying too hard to make us swoon for Ryker's inner thoughts. He's only known Faith for a month, A MONTH! They kissed twice and had a ONS. And he's already head over heels, obsessed, in complete adoration phase! His inner thoughts resemble something like this: "Brilliant brave woman. God she's honourable and admirable! What a warrior! So fierce!..." you get the idea.. better keep a tissue at hand to wipe Ryker's drool 🤤 throughout the book.
To me so much emphasis on his unjustified feelings for her is forced and not at all organic so I am absolutely not sold on their relationship.
🩷🩷That scene with Harper and Faith getting sh*t faced is the best thing in the whole book hahahaha Harper I am already in love with you!!! Can't wait to read your story and knox's 🥰🥰🥰🤗🤗🤗
“But here’s the thing: If I let you abandon Faith to save my own ass, what kind of man does that make me? What kind of father? The kind who teaches his daughter that you throw people under the bus when it’s convenient?” He shook his head. “No. If I ever do get to see her again, I want to be able to look her in the eye and know I did the right thing. Even when it cost me everything.” The conviction in his voice, the selflessness … it was so purely Knox that my throat tightened. “Faith’s life is on the line right now.” He knocked on the table twice. “We don’t leave family behind. And Blake’s sister? She’s family.”
If Knox didn't already have my heart, this, THIS 👆, would have made it a done deal!
Even though I appreciate Kathy Lockheart's attempt at showing us what it is like to be a human, our vulnerabilities, our doubts, our weaknesses in Ryker's constant growing doubt, but to be honest, if it weren't for Knox? I think Ryker would have dropped Faith faster than a lit C4. On two occasions, it was Knox who cleared Ryker's doubts, on two ocassions, it was Knox who reminded Ryker that family always comes first and they don't leave anyone behind. His self sacrifice was detrimental in shaping Ryker's opinion of Faith and setting off the chain effect of who Ryker could really be.
Ryker leaned against the wall, arms crossed, watching me with an intensity that made the air hum around me. The afternoon light caught the sharp angles of his jaw, the way his eyes tracked my every movement as I tended to the dog. There was something raw in his expression beyond concern. Fascination maybe, like he was seeing me again through a beautiful light. The warrior who’d fight for the defenseless, even when she couldn’t fight for herself.
👆 These types of inner thoughts annoy me. Presumption, PHD level of psychoanalytical thinking or maybe a profiler 🤔 I don't want my MFC thinking the MMC is melting in a puddle of adoration because that is how she reads his expression!
Guilt spread through my sternum. Maybe if I’d been focused on Faith’s case instead of throwing punches on her lawn, I’d actually know what this woman was talking about.
That pretty much sums up all the time wasted by Ryker and Faith. Instead of building a case for her defence, they were too busy making googly eyes at each other or fist fighting other people for her sake. 🙄
The whole scene at the end with the Judge was so unnecessary!
Ok last but not least, I think this book was the weakest in the series. I was not sold on their relationship. I was not sold on the whole "defending-her-case" and now more than ever I hate Axel with a Passion. His jokes were so childish and so out of place.
End of rant.
2026 Bingo Challenge 🥳
#21 Title contains the words always or forever (Ok, so these two words might not have been in the title but this phrase right here 👉 was detrimental in shaping the MFC's reality, so obviously I used Shaz's hammer 🔨 to make it fit! But always had ended the next day. Christmas Eve. A drunk driver and a patch of black ice, and always became never again.)
🟣|🟣|36|46|🟣|40|🟣|23|
🟣|🟣|🟣|🟣|🟣|🟣|🟣|🔴|
18|26|55|33|🟣|🟣|🟣|🟣|
🟣|05|43|60|🟣|🟣|13|38|
🟣|🟣|29|15|09|🟣|22|19|
10|🟣|🟣|28|54|🟣|56|🟣|
🟣|🟣|51|07|🟣|24|32|53|
🟣|49|20|🟣|39|🟣|41|11|
September 4, 2026
Rating: 4 stars
I swear Doubt had me clutching my imaginary pearls because the emotional chaos in this book is unhinged, and Axel? Sweetheart, I wanted to strangle that man like he was the last roll of toilet paper during lockdown. Every time he appeared, my blood pressure spiked. He is the human embodiment of “please stop talking before I commit a crime.”
But let’s talk about our girl first.
She wakes up in the woods with:
a bloody knife
a dead body
zero memory
and the entire justice system ready to slap a conviction on her before she even finishes her first cup of coffee
The case is basically a done deal — until Ryker Kincaid storms in like the grumpy, morally‑gray, brother’s‑best‑friend fantasy we all pretend we don’t want but absolutely do. He’s Chicago’s most ruthless defence attorney, and he’s giving “touch her and die” energy from page one.
He moves her into his penthouse — which is wildly inappropriate and also the correct decision because the man is operating on pure protective instinct. He believes she’s innocent, and he’s ready to burn his career, reputation, and emotional stability to prove it.
Ryker demands the truth — every secret, every shadow, every trauma — and he handles it with that slow, controlled intensity that makes you want to lie down and breathe into a paper bag. He’s grumpy, possessive, morally gray, and absolutely feral when it comes to protecting her.
And then…
Axel.
Axel is a walking complication.
A plot twist with legs.
A man who thinks he’s helping while actually lighting emotional fires everywhere he goes. I wanted to strangle him lovingly — in the “sir, PLEASE stop sabotaging the vibe” way. He’s not evil, he’s just catastrophically misguided.
The tension?
Unhinged.
Forced proximity, forbidden romance, legal danger, emotional landmines — it’s a buffet of chaos.
The truth reveal?
Messy.
Painful.
The kind that makes you want to hug her, slap Ryker, and scream at Axel all at once.
Why 4 stars instead of 4.5?
Because it’s addictive, dramatic, and deliciously chaotic — but Axel’s nonsense and a few pacing bumps keep it from absolute perfection. Still, it’s one of the strongest entries in the series: sharp, tense, romantic, and dripping with that “touch her and die” energy Lockheart does so well.
I swear Doubt had me clutching my imaginary pearls because the emotional chaos in this book is unhinged, and Axel? Sweetheart, I wanted to strangle that man like he was the last roll of toilet paper during lockdown. Every time he appeared, my blood pressure spiked. He is the human embodiment of “please stop talking before I commit a crime.”
But let’s talk about our girl first.
She wakes up in the woods with:
a bloody knife
a dead body
zero memory
and the entire justice system ready to slap a conviction on her before she even finishes her first cup of coffee
The case is basically a done deal — until Ryker Kincaid storms in like the grumpy, morally‑gray, brother’s‑best‑friend fantasy we all pretend we don’t want but absolutely do. He’s Chicago’s most ruthless defence attorney, and he’s giving “touch her and die” energy from page one.
He moves her into his penthouse — which is wildly inappropriate and also the correct decision because the man is operating on pure protective instinct. He believes she’s innocent, and he’s ready to burn his career, reputation, and emotional stability to prove it.
Ryker demands the truth — every secret, every shadow, every trauma — and he handles it with that slow, controlled intensity that makes you want to lie down and breathe into a paper bag. He’s grumpy, possessive, morally gray, and absolutely feral when it comes to protecting her.
And then…
Axel.
Axel is a walking complication.
A plot twist with legs.
A man who thinks he’s helping while actually lighting emotional fires everywhere he goes. I wanted to strangle him lovingly — in the “sir, PLEASE stop sabotaging the vibe” way. He’s not evil, he’s just catastrophically misguided.
The tension?
Unhinged.
Forced proximity, forbidden romance, legal danger, emotional landmines — it’s a buffet of chaos.
The truth reveal?
Messy.
Painful.
The kind that makes you want to hug her, slap Ryker, and scream at Axel all at once.
Why 4 stars instead of 4.5?
Because it’s addictive, dramatic, and deliciously chaotic — but Axel’s nonsense and a few pacing bumps keep it from absolute perfection. Still, it’s one of the strongest entries in the series: sharp, tense, romantic, and dripping with that “touch her and die” energy Lockheart does so well.
Currently Reading
January 6, 2026Available now!
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Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
https://amzn.to/3Y2Db2k
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3KZ0FSW
October 8, 2026
I’ve had the best time with Kathy Lockheart’s Sinners and Saints series, especially on audio, and Doubt was another fantastic addition! This is one of those series I really think is best experienced in order because the characters and their complicated relationships are such a huge part of the appeal. Four books in, I’m still completely invested, and the morally gray men continue to be one of my favorite things about these stories.
Faith and Ryker are two incredibly complex, messy, and damaged people, and I found them both fascinating. Their relationship is anything but simple, especially with so much history, emotional baggage, and uncertainty between them. I loved how complicated they were individually and together. Neither character has everything figured out, and that vulnerability made their story all the more compelling. There is something so addictive about characters who are deeply flawed but still desperately want to love and be loved.
This installment felt particularly high stakes, emotional, and raw. Between the murder accusation, buried secrets, and complicated feelings, there was so much tension running throughout the story. Lockheart does such a great job balancing the suspense with the romance, giving readers plenty of reasons to become invested in both the mystery and the relationship. And, as always, the morally gray men in this series are absolutely delivering!
The audiobook deserves its own round of applause. Andi Arndt and Thomas Oakley were phenomenal as Faith and Ryker. These are emotionally demanding roles, and both narrators captured the messiness, pain, vulnerability, and intensity of their characters so beautifully. Their performances brought an extra layer of depth to an already emotional story, and I really can’t recommend experiencing this series on audio enough.
Perfect for readers who love:
* Morally gray heroes with complicated pasts
* Brother’s best friend romance
* Romantic suspense with high emotional stakes
* Messy, damaged, deeply compelling characters
* Audiobooks with outstanding emotional performances
February 19, 2026
4🌟, 3🌶️
This book balanced suspense and emotion so beautifully.
Faith’s story is heavy and deeply moving, shaped by a childhood in foster care that left her with lasting scars but also incredible resilience. When she becomes the prime suspect in a murder she can’t remember, her fear and vulnerability felt painfully real. Watching her face the weight of her past while fighting to hold onto herself made it impossible not to root for her.
Ryker was exactly the kind of steady presence she needed, even when it meant risking everything. As her lawyer, his loyalty never wavered, and the quiet intensity between them made every interaction feel meaningful. Their connection is built on trust, tension, and years of unspoken feelings, and seeing him stand beside her when everything felt uncertain added so much emotional depth. The suspense kept me invested, but it was their emotional bond that truly held my attention.
What stayed with me most was Faith’s strength and the unwavering support from the people who refused to let her fall. The Sinners and Saints group brought warmth and levity, reminding her she was never alone. While the ending felt slightly quick in places, the emotional payoff and character growth made it such a satisfying read. It was emotional, gripping, and a strong, memorable addition to the series.
This was a beautiful reminder of the power of unwavering love.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Kathy Lockhart and Valentine PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
This book balanced suspense and emotion so beautifully.
Faith’s story is heavy and deeply moving, shaped by a childhood in foster care that left her with lasting scars but also incredible resilience. When she becomes the prime suspect in a murder she can’t remember, her fear and vulnerability felt painfully real. Watching her face the weight of her past while fighting to hold onto herself made it impossible not to root for her.
Ryker was exactly the kind of steady presence she needed, even when it meant risking everything. As her lawyer, his loyalty never wavered, and the quiet intensity between them made every interaction feel meaningful. Their connection is built on trust, tension, and years of unspoken feelings, and seeing him stand beside her when everything felt uncertain added so much emotional depth. The suspense kept me invested, but it was their emotional bond that truly held my attention.
What stayed with me most was Faith’s strength and the unwavering support from the people who refused to let her fall. The Sinners and Saints group brought warmth and levity, reminding her she was never alone. While the ending felt slightly quick in places, the emotional payoff and character growth made it such a satisfying read. It was emotional, gripping, and a strong, memorable addition to the series.
This was a beautiful reminder of the power of unwavering love.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Kathy Lockhart and Valentine PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
September 26, 2026
I dropped everything immediately when this audio was available to me. This series has become one of my favorites, and each book is better than the last. The morally gray alpha billionaires and romantic suspense, mixed with the best kind of banter and found family - I can’t get enough! Faith and Ryker’s story is a unique, addictive, wild ride. She is charged with murder, and he is her attorney 👀 There is so much forbidden tension!!
Thomas Oakley + Andi Arndt were so much fun to listen to, I love how they sounded together. The characters had a ton of chemistry and these two brought it to life in the best ways. They also did fantastic with all of the side characters. And you don’t want to miss the extended epilogue audio exclusive!
The audio for the fifth and final book can’t come soon enough, after the setup in this book I am too excited.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 ⇢ Chicago setting, romantic suspense, secrets, lies + hidden pasts, forbidden, morally gray possessive hero, brother’s best friend, he’s her attorney, forced proximity, dual pov, spice
Thank you Must Love Audio, Lyric Audiobooks, and Kathy for the advanced copy!
Thomas Oakley + Andi Arndt were so much fun to listen to, I love how they sounded together. The characters had a ton of chemistry and these two brought it to life in the best ways. They also did fantastic with all of the side characters. And you don’t want to miss the extended epilogue audio exclusive!
The audio for the fifth and final book can’t come soon enough, after the setup in this book I am too excited.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 ⇢ Chicago setting, romantic suspense, secrets, lies + hidden pasts, forbidden, morally gray possessive hero, brother’s best friend, he’s her attorney, forced proximity, dual pov, spice
Thank you Must Love Audio, Lyric Audiobooks, and Kathy for the advanced copy!
September 29, 2026
Doubt had me hooked from the VERY beginning. THAT EPIC Scene. A bloody knife, a dead body, and zero memory?! Faith bursting into her brother’s home with absolutely no idea how she got there or what happened. And somehow, that is only the beginning of the chaos. Kathy Lockheart knows how to throw us directly into the fire, and this one had me questioning EVERYTHING right alongside Faith.
I am LOVING this series, and Doubt is such a strong addition. Perhaps my favorite so far, and certainly the most emotionally affective. It gives us that delicious mix of murder, mystery, romantic suspense, secrets, forbidden feelings, and a whole lot of emotional damage, while still making room for the friendships and found family that have made this series so much fun to follow.
Faith’s story absolutely broke my heart. Her childhood in the foster system left her carrying wounds that run incredibly deep, but what I loved most was that Kathy never reduced her to those wounds. Faith is vulnerable, yes, but she is also fierce, compassionate, resilient, and determined to make something good out of everything she survived. Watching her struggle with not knowing whether she could trust her own memories while the entire world seemed ready to decide she was guilty was SO hard. I wanted to reach through the pages and protect this woman.
And then there is Ryker. This man. I was addicted to his mercurial allure in the other books, and Kathy delivered here. Easily my favorite hero (so far...Knox may take over). Ryker is the perfect combination of morally gray, intimidating, possessive, and unexpectedly tender. He is a criminal defense attorney who knows exactly how bad Faith’s situation looks, and yet he never stops standing beside her. Not once. He is willing to put his career, reputation, and basically every ounce of common sense on the line because he believes she deserves someone in her corner.
And the fact that these two have YEARS of history and buried feelings underneath all of that? Delicious.Their connection had been simmering long before this story began, and once circumstances force them into close quarters, that tension is impossible to ignore. There is so much trust being built between them, but also so much fear, especially for Faith. She has spent her entire life learning that people leave, people hurt you, and people cannot always be trusted. Ryker has to show her that he isn't going anywhere, and watching that happen was one of my favorite parts of the story. He doesn't just want to prove her innocent. He wants her to believe that she is worth fighting for. UGH. MY HEART.
And yes, Ryker is bringing ALL the “touch her and die” goodness. Protective without losing that softer side that Faith desperately needs. Their chemistry is intense, but the emotional intimacy between them is what really got me. The romance never felt like it was simply sitting on top of the suspense. The two pieces constantly fed into each other. And the suspense?! Kathy kept feeding us just enough information to make me think I had figured something out before yanking the rug right back out. Faith's missing memories, the evidence surrounding the murder, the secrets buried in her past, and the people involved had me constantly asking WHAT IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING?! Doubt fits the WHOLE vibe of this story, the experience, the conflict, the energy. Doubt is everywhere. Doubt in the evidence. Doubt in memories. Doubt in other people. And, perhaps most painfully, doubt in yourself.
I also have to talk about the Sinners and Saints crew because I LOVE THEM. Their friendships bring so much humor and lightness to what is otherwise a pretty heavy story. The group dynamic, the banter, the ridiculous text threads, the way these people show up for each other...it gives the series such a strong sense of community. There are some genuinely funny moments here that were desperately needed between all the murder, trauma, and emotional devastation. 90% thanks to Axel being back to his insane shenanigans, and he's even worse now perhaps because he's all HEA'ed up lol.
Truthfully this felt like it would be an easy 5 star, but it lost it's way a bit at the end. There is SO MUCH slow and steady pacing here. Doubt accrual, tension, the mystery. It felt like we were leading up to some dramatic stuff, and then the plot just fizzles out and solves itself in like 3 seconds and all of that build up felt almost felt for nothing/inflated. The stakes are SO huge here, and the finale and ease (and brevity) of it just didn't match what I felt was a pretty masterful first and second acts. With everything that had been building around Faith's case, I wanted a little more room for the resolution to breathe. AND, like holy smokes when we know what happened and so does she, there is SO Much to process and deal with. Even if the truth isn't what it seems (trying to not spoil), some bad ish went down and I think there's be emotional blowback as one comes to term with it. Not only that, but Ryker also does something boneheaded that made me mad too. That said, the character work and ovearching journies more than made up for it. Faith's growth, especially in learning to accept support and allow herself to be loved, was beautiful. And Ryker's unwavering presence beside her made their relationship feel like so much more than attraction. There is a real tenderness underneath all that tension, and I think that's what ultimately made this story still feel like my favorite. (And truth be told, I've felt all of them so far have had a too quickly paced finale, so maybe it's just my personal taste)- but this one just irked me a smidge more BECAUSE this one was so clearly going to be my favorite.
But overall, just loved this one. The emotion is so much more intense, the stakes feel way more pressing and heavy, and so it felt like the romance has so many layers of substance. Doubt is emotional, twisty, romantic, and completely addictive. It had me stressed, suspicious, and swooning.
This series on audio is TOP TIER. Andi Arndt and Thomas Oakley deliver this one in duet narration, and they were such a fantastic pairing for Faith and Ryker. Andi captures Faith's vulnerability beautifully without ever losing the strength underneath it. You can hear the fear, uncertainty, and emotional exhaustion, but you can also hear her fight coming through. She gives Faith so much personality and heart. And Thomas Oakley?! THIS MAN. His performance as Ryker was everything I wanted. That controlled intensity, the possessiveness, the protective edge, and then those quieter moments where his tenderness comes through. His voice fit Ryker ridiculously well, and the chemistry between both narrators made the romance even more consuming. The duet nature of the audios paired with Kathy's dialogue and character driven narrative style just REALLY make the audio work so well.
And now I'm sad because I only have one left to go and I'm anxious to see just WHAT is up with Knox. I already know I'm going to be a MESS.
What to expect
🖤 Romantic Suspense
🖤 Brother's Best Friend
🖤 Forbidden Romance
🖤 Lawyer x Client Murder Suspect
🖤 Morally Gray Hero
🖤 Grumpy Hero
🖤 Protective/Possessive Hero
🖤 “Touch Her and Die” Energy
🖤 Slow Burn
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 Found Family
🖤 Murder Mystery
🖤 Heroine in Legal Trouble
🖤 Tragic Past
🖤 Emotional Healing
🖤 Secrets & Twists
🖤 Duet Narration
I am LOVING this series, and Doubt is such a strong addition. Perhaps my favorite so far, and certainly the most emotionally affective. It gives us that delicious mix of murder, mystery, romantic suspense, secrets, forbidden feelings, and a whole lot of emotional damage, while still making room for the friendships and found family that have made this series so much fun to follow.
Faith’s story absolutely broke my heart. Her childhood in the foster system left her carrying wounds that run incredibly deep, but what I loved most was that Kathy never reduced her to those wounds. Faith is vulnerable, yes, but she is also fierce, compassionate, resilient, and determined to make something good out of everything she survived. Watching her struggle with not knowing whether she could trust her own memories while the entire world seemed ready to decide she was guilty was SO hard. I wanted to reach through the pages and protect this woman.
And then there is Ryker. This man. I was addicted to his mercurial allure in the other books, and Kathy delivered here. Easily my favorite hero (so far...Knox may take over). Ryker is the perfect combination of morally gray, intimidating, possessive, and unexpectedly tender. He is a criminal defense attorney who knows exactly how bad Faith’s situation looks, and yet he never stops standing beside her. Not once. He is willing to put his career, reputation, and basically every ounce of common sense on the line because he believes she deserves someone in her corner.
And the fact that these two have YEARS of history and buried feelings underneath all of that? Delicious.Their connection had been simmering long before this story began, and once circumstances force them into close quarters, that tension is impossible to ignore. There is so much trust being built between them, but also so much fear, especially for Faith. She has spent her entire life learning that people leave, people hurt you, and people cannot always be trusted. Ryker has to show her that he isn't going anywhere, and watching that happen was one of my favorite parts of the story. He doesn't just want to prove her innocent. He wants her to believe that she is worth fighting for. UGH. MY HEART.
And yes, Ryker is bringing ALL the “touch her and die” goodness. Protective without losing that softer side that Faith desperately needs. Their chemistry is intense, but the emotional intimacy between them is what really got me. The romance never felt like it was simply sitting on top of the suspense. The two pieces constantly fed into each other. And the suspense?! Kathy kept feeding us just enough information to make me think I had figured something out before yanking the rug right back out. Faith's missing memories, the evidence surrounding the murder, the secrets buried in her past, and the people involved had me constantly asking WHAT IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING?! Doubt fits the WHOLE vibe of this story, the experience, the conflict, the energy. Doubt is everywhere. Doubt in the evidence. Doubt in memories. Doubt in other people. And, perhaps most painfully, doubt in yourself.
I also have to talk about the Sinners and Saints crew because I LOVE THEM. Their friendships bring so much humor and lightness to what is otherwise a pretty heavy story. The group dynamic, the banter, the ridiculous text threads, the way these people show up for each other...it gives the series such a strong sense of community. There are some genuinely funny moments here that were desperately needed between all the murder, trauma, and emotional devastation. 90% thanks to Axel being back to his insane shenanigans, and he's even worse now perhaps because he's all HEA'ed up lol.
Truthfully this felt like it would be an easy 5 star, but it lost it's way a bit at the end. There is SO MUCH slow and steady pacing here. Doubt accrual, tension, the mystery. It felt like we were leading up to some dramatic stuff, and then the plot just fizzles out and solves itself in like 3 seconds and all of that build up felt almost felt for nothing/inflated. The stakes are SO huge here, and the finale and ease (and brevity) of it just didn't match what I felt was a pretty masterful first and second acts. With everything that had been building around Faith's case, I wanted a little more room for the resolution to breathe. AND, like holy smokes when we know what happened and so does she, there is SO Much to process and deal with. Even if the truth isn't what it seems (trying to not spoil), some bad ish went down and I think there's be emotional blowback as one comes to term with it. Not only that, but Ryker also does something boneheaded that made me mad too. That said, the character work and ovearching journies more than made up for it. Faith's growth, especially in learning to accept support and allow herself to be loved, was beautiful. And Ryker's unwavering presence beside her made their relationship feel like so much more than attraction. There is a real tenderness underneath all that tension, and I think that's what ultimately made this story still feel like my favorite. (And truth be told, I've felt all of them so far have had a too quickly paced finale, so maybe it's just my personal taste)- but this one just irked me a smidge more BECAUSE this one was so clearly going to be my favorite.
But overall, just loved this one. The emotion is so much more intense, the stakes feel way more pressing and heavy, and so it felt like the romance has so many layers of substance. Doubt is emotional, twisty, romantic, and completely addictive. It had me stressed, suspicious, and swooning.
This series on audio is TOP TIER. Andi Arndt and Thomas Oakley deliver this one in duet narration, and they were such a fantastic pairing for Faith and Ryker. Andi captures Faith's vulnerability beautifully without ever losing the strength underneath it. You can hear the fear, uncertainty, and emotional exhaustion, but you can also hear her fight coming through. She gives Faith so much personality and heart. And Thomas Oakley?! THIS MAN. His performance as Ryker was everything I wanted. That controlled intensity, the possessiveness, the protective edge, and then those quieter moments where his tenderness comes through. His voice fit Ryker ridiculously well, and the chemistry between both narrators made the romance even more consuming. The duet nature of the audios paired with Kathy's dialogue and character driven narrative style just REALLY make the audio work so well.
And now I'm sad because I only have one left to go and I'm anxious to see just WHAT is up with Knox. I already know I'm going to be a MESS.
What to expect
🖤 Romantic Suspense
🖤 Brother's Best Friend
🖤 Forbidden Romance
🖤 Lawyer x Client Murder Suspect
🖤 Morally Gray Hero
🖤 Grumpy Hero
🖤 Protective/Possessive Hero
🖤 “Touch Her and Die” Energy
🖤 Slow Burn
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 Found Family
🖤 Murder Mystery
🖤 Heroine in Legal Trouble
🖤 Tragic Past
🖤 Emotional Healing
🖤 Secrets & Twists
🖤 Duet Narration
February 18, 2026
#Review: *Doubt* - Kathy Lockheart - ARC [18+]
4.9/5✨
3/5🌶️
Faith found herself in a bizarre situation, where she ended up covered in blood and being suspected of killing a man. Ryker, one of her brother's friends and the man who always stole her attention, instantly decided to help her by being her lawyer, but can Faith be honest about all the things that happened in her life? Could they win this tough case when everyone was against them?
I was completely captivated by this story even from the first line! It intrigued me from the first page, keeping me on suspense a really long time. There were so many uncertainties, tons of questions and what ifs regarding Faith, not knowing at all what happened for sure in her case. I really liked that the title was chosen perfectly, because it completely represents the idea of this book, because doubt was the main theme of this story. It was nice how all that suspense was intertwined with a wonderful secret, forbidden romance, one which was at the same time sweet and beautiful, but also passionate and pretty spicy. I cannot forget about the awesome and funny friendship between Ryker and the other MMCs from Kathy's previous books. They were delicious and brought the good vibes and that amazing solidarity to this story.
Kathy has done it again, creating such a wonderful story, filled with so many emotions and beautiful characters. I looved their complex connection and how nerve-wracking was Faith's case. I'm so excited for the next book from this series, being already teased by Kathy and already loving everything about it 😍.
Many thanks to Kathy and Valentine Pr for offering me this amazing e-ARC. Looved it!💖
✨Tropes
▫️Brother's Best Friend
▫️Tragic Past
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Forbidden Love
▫️Grumpy Hero
▫️Protective MMC
4.9/5✨
3/5🌶️
Faith found herself in a bizarre situation, where she ended up covered in blood and being suspected of killing a man. Ryker, one of her brother's friends and the man who always stole her attention, instantly decided to help her by being her lawyer, but can Faith be honest about all the things that happened in her life? Could they win this tough case when everyone was against them?
I was completely captivated by this story even from the first line! It intrigued me from the first page, keeping me on suspense a really long time. There were so many uncertainties, tons of questions and what ifs regarding Faith, not knowing at all what happened for sure in her case. I really liked that the title was chosen perfectly, because it completely represents the idea of this book, because doubt was the main theme of this story. It was nice how all that suspense was intertwined with a wonderful secret, forbidden romance, one which was at the same time sweet and beautiful, but also passionate and pretty spicy. I cannot forget about the awesome and funny friendship between Ryker and the other MMCs from Kathy's previous books. They were delicious and brought the good vibes and that amazing solidarity to this story.
Kathy has done it again, creating such a wonderful story, filled with so many emotions and beautiful characters. I looved their complex connection and how nerve-wracking was Faith's case. I'm so excited for the next book from this series, being already teased by Kathy and already loving everything about it 😍.
Many thanks to Kathy and Valentine Pr for offering me this amazing e-ARC. Looved it!💖
✨Tropes
▫️Brother's Best Friend
▫️Tragic Past
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Forbidden Love
▫️Grumpy Hero
▫️Protective MMC
February 3, 2026
✨Book Review✨
Book 4 in The Sinners and Saints Series
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 2.5-3🌶️
Captivated! This series already had my heart but WOW, this one blew me away! Kathy, what do you put in your stories because I am utterly obsessed!
Doubt follows Faith-the strongest most caring human to possibly walk this fictional world. Her childhood was spent surving the foster care system and although those years left her battered and broken she has risen as a phoenix with a promise to help those in need. Ryker-the golden boy, the morally gray hero who will fight to the ends of the earth to help those he loves with the honor to always stand by what he believes.
These two…these two are magnetic. The chemistry that they shared in book 3 full on delivered in this book and left no crumbs! I was head over heels swooning at Ryker and his utter devotion to Faith. Risking his career, his reputation, everything on the line to ensure she is FREE. My heart broke for Faith. Every flashback, every time she shared bits of her story, I was an emotional mess. But she is what Ryker calls her, a warrior! Her strength, fierceness, love, and dedication (just to name a few) make her one of the strongest FMCs out there.
Their found family SHOWED up!! Ahhh I love seeing all the characters come together and although there were tears shed, there were moments of pure joy and laugh out loud moments.
I just know that the final book is going to WRECK ME and you know what? I am here for it!
Tropes
•broken and fierce FMC
•morally grey hero
•best friends sister
•lawyer/client
•found family
•foster system
Book 4 in The Sinners and Saints Series
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 2.5-3🌶️
Captivated! This series already had my heart but WOW, this one blew me away! Kathy, what do you put in your stories because I am utterly obsessed!
Doubt follows Faith-the strongest most caring human to possibly walk this fictional world. Her childhood was spent surving the foster care system and although those years left her battered and broken she has risen as a phoenix with a promise to help those in need. Ryker-the golden boy, the morally gray hero who will fight to the ends of the earth to help those he loves with the honor to always stand by what he believes.
These two…these two are magnetic. The chemistry that they shared in book 3 full on delivered in this book and left no crumbs! I was head over heels swooning at Ryker and his utter devotion to Faith. Risking his career, his reputation, everything on the line to ensure she is FREE. My heart broke for Faith. Every flashback, every time she shared bits of her story, I was an emotional mess. But she is what Ryker calls her, a warrior! Her strength, fierceness, love, and dedication (just to name a few) make her one of the strongest FMCs out there.
Their found family SHOWED up!! Ahhh I love seeing all the characters come together and although there were tears shed, there were moments of pure joy and laugh out loud moments.
I just know that the final book is going to WRECK ME and you know what? I am here for it!
Tropes
•broken and fierce FMC
•morally grey hero
•best friends sister
•lawyer/client
•found family
•foster system
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
spice 🌶 🌶 🌶
found family
hidden secrets
I own ALL of Kathy Lockheart's books.
This one... ya'll they keep getting better and better. Each one is perfectly written
Each character stands out and makes you feel like you are right in front of the action that she writes .
The characters are beautiful and so relatable.
This story of Ryker and Faith held my attention from the beginning all the way to the last sentence.
The special moments and the connections they shared. The funny moments and the secrets that were kept.
This story had its laugh out loud moments and most of all it had me wanting more.
"And to answer your question, Faith, I’ve been mesmerized by you since themoment you walked into my life. You’ve been stuck in my head since I first saw you. It’s never happened with another woman. I think about you when I fall asleep. You’re the first thing I think about when I wake up.”
Harper squinted at me. “You’re much taller than she made you sound. And angrier-looking. And more lamp-resistant.”
When new characters get introduced into the mix. Harper.
Blake frowned deeper. “I’m not hitting on you.” “Really? Because walking up to a stranger and immediately fixating on their face while asking to touch them? That screams, I collect skin suits in my basement.”
The moment where Trust truly begins.
I choose to trust you, even when trust terrifies me.
I was truly immersed into this story but wish it never ended.
Kathy Lockheart is a true genius when is comes to writing a book. She will keep you engaged and coming back for more.
spice 🌶 🌶 🌶
found family
hidden secrets
I own ALL of Kathy Lockheart's books.
This one... ya'll they keep getting better and better. Each one is perfectly written
Each character stands out and makes you feel like you are right in front of the action that she writes .
The characters are beautiful and so relatable.
This story of Ryker and Faith held my attention from the beginning all the way to the last sentence.
The special moments and the connections they shared. The funny moments and the secrets that were kept.
This story had its laugh out loud moments and most of all it had me wanting more.
"And to answer your question, Faith, I’ve been mesmerized by you since themoment you walked into my life. You’ve been stuck in my head since I first saw you. It’s never happened with another woman. I think about you when I fall asleep. You’re the first thing I think about when I wake up.”
Harper squinted at me. “You’re much taller than she made you sound. And angrier-looking. And more lamp-resistant.”
When new characters get introduced into the mix. Harper.
Blake frowned deeper. “I’m not hitting on you.” “Really? Because walking up to a stranger and immediately fixating on their face while asking to touch them? That screams, I collect skin suits in my basement.”
The moment where Trust truly begins.
I choose to trust you, even when trust terrifies me.
I was truly immersed into this story but wish it never ended.
Kathy Lockheart is a true genius when is comes to writing a book. She will keep you engaged and coming back for more.
June 16, 2026
Urgh, this book would be so much better if it had a mix of courtroom drama and some police procedural stuffs in them. Because honestly, it was so boring. Nothing barely happened outside of the whole emotional talks they had.
Give me some actions, dammit.
Give me some actions, dammit.
October 4, 2026
📚DOUBT by Kathy Lockheart
🎤Andi Arndt and Thomas Oakley
DUET NARRATION
Thanks to the author and Must Love Audio for a #gifted copy of the ALC. All thoughts are my own.
HOLY SMOKES!!! I was IMMEDIATELY sucked into this story guys. This series has been so damn good and with each book we learn a little bit more about everyone and I freakin;'love it!
When Faith arrives at her brother's home with a bloody knife in hand, a dead body and no memory of how she got there or what happened, Ryker immediately makes it his mission to defend her to the end. You guys, this book starts off with the biggest bang and doesn't stop. Kathy gives us the perfect mix of romantic suspense, emotions and secrets that just kept on comin' and the tension???? SOOOO GOOD, it really has it all. I just loved this book and ESPECIALLY on audio with Andi and Thomas.👌🏻👌🏻
Faith's backstory is heartbreaking and I really admired how well Kathy wrote such a strong and resilient FMC. Kudos! She was able to make her vulnerable but strong at the same time. Faith has a long road learning to trust others and accept love from Ryker. Watching him stay with her throughout this whole story was one of my favorite things because Faith had NEVER experienced this in her life. I loved Ryker so much! 🥹🥹
Ryker, the morally grey, possessive yet gentle MC was totally determined to save Faith from the fate of prison. Their connection has been brewing for years and watching them fall into each other was perfect. The "touch her and die vibes' were absolutely oozing from this man. He's determined to prove her innocence even if he burns his career and reputation doing so. So many tension filled moments but also so many tender ones too. I absolutely loved these two together.
I am loving this found family so much. Each book is filled with suspense, love, emotional moments, surprising moments and a few giggles. Axel cracked me up in this book. The Sinners and Saints text threads are chef's kiss! There's some wonderful character growth in this book and heartfelt moments that add so much to this story.
🎤Let's talk audio: People! This series on audio is absolutely TOP TIER. Every book is duet narrated and has amazing narrators and this one is NO exception. Andi Arndt and Thomas Oakley are such fantastic pairing for this story. Andi was perfect voicing Faith, giving her every emotion and vulnerability that Faith experiences but also gives her some fire and sass that just make her such a likeable character. I've listened to Thomas a few times but THIS MAN blew me away in this book. His voice, tone and performance were hands down perfection for Ryker's character. Possessive while at the same time tender and giving Faith the emotional stability that she needs. I loved every minute of this one you guys.
I can't recommend this series enough but especially in audio. Every listen has been absolutely outstanding.
Why the 4.5 ⭐? I just felt like Kathy lost her way a bit on the pacing of the book. The ending wrapped up way too quickly and neatly for how complicated this case was but I will recommend this series forever! I love it and I cannot wait for Knox's book, the convicted killer, feared and lethal and with so many secrets. 👀It's gonna be so good. Add this series to your TBR now ya'll!
🎤Andi Arndt and Thomas Oakley
DUET NARRATION
Thanks to the author and Must Love Audio for a #gifted copy of the ALC. All thoughts are my own.
HOLY SMOKES!!! I was IMMEDIATELY sucked into this story guys. This series has been so damn good and with each book we learn a little bit more about everyone and I freakin;'love it!
When Faith arrives at her brother's home with a bloody knife in hand, a dead body and no memory of how she got there or what happened, Ryker immediately makes it his mission to defend her to the end. You guys, this book starts off with the biggest bang and doesn't stop. Kathy gives us the perfect mix of romantic suspense, emotions and secrets that just kept on comin' and the tension???? SOOOO GOOD, it really has it all. I just loved this book and ESPECIALLY on audio with Andi and Thomas.👌🏻👌🏻
Faith's backstory is heartbreaking and I really admired how well Kathy wrote such a strong and resilient FMC. Kudos! She was able to make her vulnerable but strong at the same time. Faith has a long road learning to trust others and accept love from Ryker. Watching him stay with her throughout this whole story was one of my favorite things because Faith had NEVER experienced this in her life. I loved Ryker so much! 🥹🥹
Ryker, the morally grey, possessive yet gentle MC was totally determined to save Faith from the fate of prison. Their connection has been brewing for years and watching them fall into each other was perfect. The "touch her and die vibes' were absolutely oozing from this man. He's determined to prove her innocence even if he burns his career and reputation doing so. So many tension filled moments but also so many tender ones too. I absolutely loved these two together.
I am loving this found family so much. Each book is filled with suspense, love, emotional moments, surprising moments and a few giggles. Axel cracked me up in this book. The Sinners and Saints text threads are chef's kiss! There's some wonderful character growth in this book and heartfelt moments that add so much to this story.
🎤Let's talk audio: People! This series on audio is absolutely TOP TIER. Every book is duet narrated and has amazing narrators and this one is NO exception. Andi Arndt and Thomas Oakley are such fantastic pairing for this story. Andi was perfect voicing Faith, giving her every emotion and vulnerability that Faith experiences but also gives her some fire and sass that just make her such a likeable character. I've listened to Thomas a few times but THIS MAN blew me away in this book. His voice, tone and performance were hands down perfection for Ryker's character. Possessive while at the same time tender and giving Faith the emotional stability that she needs. I loved every minute of this one you guys.
I can't recommend this series enough but especially in audio. Every listen has been absolutely outstanding.
Why the 4.5 ⭐? I just felt like Kathy lost her way a bit on the pacing of the book. The ending wrapped up way too quickly and neatly for how complicated this case was but I will recommend this series forever! I love it and I cannot wait for Knox's book, the convicted killer, feared and lethal and with so many secrets. 👀It's gonna be so good. Add this series to your TBR now ya'll!
February 9, 2026
First: the name. Doubt was such a fitting name for this book as it truly shows how powerful a force doubt can be, when it comes to splitting relationships apart. I’ve read all the books in the Saint and Sinner series so far and this one may be at the top of my list now. Because he’s a hotshot criminal lawyer who now needs to save the fmc, who he’s been falling for from going to jail. And the fmc is also his best friend’s little sister. This plot was amazing! I was so hooked because until almost the last moment we don’t actually know if she did it or not. There’s a romantic suspense and murder mystery element to it that I loved. But what I also loved was how Ryker was so determined to save her and love her innocence. Yes there’s doubt, because being a freaking criminal lawyer isn’t easy on his conscience, especially knowing that someone you have prevented from going to jail, is actually guilty. Faith is also such an amazing character, who went through so much trauma and came out with my insecurities that she hides with a tough sarcastic facade. That Ryker sees all the way through. Both Ryker and Faiths character development throughout the book is amazing and gosh I was crying tears of joy when reading their HEA. The plot was so intense and angsty. She’s the convicted murder of the son of the most powerful judge in the city, but luckily she’s surrounded by powerful people who would do anything for her (Ryker being at the top of that list). The plot twists were so good and it was an amazing read from start to finish. I also love the way he calls her “warrior” because she fought like hell through her traumatic childhood and came out as such a fierce, strong and loving woman. Faith has to be one of my favourite fmcs from this series. I loved this book and can’t wait to see what happens with Knox in the next one. I give this a 5/5
August 19, 2026
2.0 |
January 31, 2026
Fantastic as always! Such an intense book with the subject matter but also so damn good! Faith went through a lot in her life and I felt so bad for her, I just wanted to hug her most of the book. I admired her fierce determination to be better when all the odds were against her. Ryker had a hard time with what she was going through at times with being her defense attorney and loving her but he came around to understanding her and what she went through. The spice was spicing and the banter between the guys was hilarious as always! Love you Rainbow girl! 🐶 can’t wait for Knox’s story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2026
When he sees the real you—and loves every side.
“If you fall, you fall into me. Always.”
Faith Morrison, aka Warrior, has survived more than anyone should have to. After losing her parents at just five years old, she endured a broken foster care system and years of separation from her only brother. She learned to do whatever it took to survive, but surviving and believing you’re worthy of love are two very different things.
So when Faith finds herself covered in blood with no memory of how she got there, she turns to her brother and his friends for help. One of them is Ryker Kincaid, a tattooed criminal defense attorney with a strict moral compass—and the man she’s reluctantly falling for.
Ryker has built his career around defending the truly innocent. But when his best friend’s sister, the woman he’s been trying not to obsess over, needs his help, he finds himself facing a line he swore he’d never cross again. Can he protect Faith without compromising everything he believes in? And what happens when the truth about her past threatens the relationship they’re building?
Things I loved:
💕 The band of brothers. These men always show up for one another, and I will never get tired of it! Axel deserves a special shout-out for his perfectly timed comedic relief.
💕 The brother’s-best-friend connections. Blake ended up with Ryker’s sister, Tessa, and now Ryker is falling for Blake’s sister, Faith. I love a little romantic karma!
💕 Faith’s heart. Watching her turn her painful experiences into a mission to help young people aging out of foster care was incredibly powerful. There’s something beautiful about taking the broken pieces of your past and using them to make a difference for someone else.
💕 Justice and villains worth hating. Give me a story with people worth rooting for, villains worth despising, and a satisfying dose of justice!
💕 The ugly furry friend. 😂 IYKYK.
💕 The promise of more Knox. I’m already impatient for his story!
A couple of complicated feelings:
[spoiler]Faith’s reluctance to open up about her past was frustrating at times, especially because those details were so important to preparing her defense. But her history of feeling unloved, unwanted, and undeserving made that struggle understandable, even when I wanted her to let someone in.[/spoiler]
[spoiler]I also struggled when Ryker began questioning Faith’s innocence and pulled away after promising he would always be there for her. Given everything she’d been through, that distance hurt.[/spoiler]
🎧 Audio Notes
{duet} Thomas Oakley and Andi Arndt pulled me straight into this story with their duet narration. I felt like I was running for my life through the woods, desperate to uncover the truth and find justice for Faith.
The fear, frustration, emotional vulnerability, and eventual pursuit of justice all came through so vividly. The narration made an already compelling story feel even more immersive, and the audio is absolutely my favorite way to experience this book.
My Ratings: 4.25⭐️ | Spice: 3🌶️ | Audio: 5🎙️
What to expect:
* Brother’s best friend
* Forbidden romance
* Touch her and die
* Morally gray hero
* Grumpy hero
* Hidden pasts
* Forced proximity
* Foster care representation
* Found family
* Band of brothers
Recommended for: Morally gray romance readers who love protective heroes, found family, hard-won trust, and characters willing to do the wrong thing for the right reasons.
Thank you so much to Kathy Lockheart and Must Love Audio for the gifted ALC and paperback! ❤️
Narrated by Thomas Oakley and Andi Arndt.
Produced by Lyric Audiobooks.
“If you fall, you fall into me. Always.”
Faith Morrison, aka Warrior, has survived more than anyone should have to. After losing her parents at just five years old, she endured a broken foster care system and years of separation from her only brother. She learned to do whatever it took to survive, but surviving and believing you’re worthy of love are two very different things.
So when Faith finds herself covered in blood with no memory of how she got there, she turns to her brother and his friends for help. One of them is Ryker Kincaid, a tattooed criminal defense attorney with a strict moral compass—and the man she’s reluctantly falling for.
Ryker has built his career around defending the truly innocent. But when his best friend’s sister, the woman he’s been trying not to obsess over, needs his help, he finds himself facing a line he swore he’d never cross again. Can he protect Faith without compromising everything he believes in? And what happens when the truth about her past threatens the relationship they’re building?
Things I loved:
💕 The band of brothers. These men always show up for one another, and I will never get tired of it! Axel deserves a special shout-out for his perfectly timed comedic relief.
💕 The brother’s-best-friend connections. Blake ended up with Ryker’s sister, Tessa, and now Ryker is falling for Blake’s sister, Faith. I love a little romantic karma!
💕 Faith’s heart. Watching her turn her painful experiences into a mission to help young people aging out of foster care was incredibly powerful. There’s something beautiful about taking the broken pieces of your past and using them to make a difference for someone else.
💕 Justice and villains worth hating. Give me a story with people worth rooting for, villains worth despising, and a satisfying dose of justice!
💕 The ugly furry friend. 😂 IYKYK.
💕 The promise of more Knox. I’m already impatient for his story!
A couple of complicated feelings:
[spoiler]Faith’s reluctance to open up about her past was frustrating at times, especially because those details were so important to preparing her defense. But her history of feeling unloved, unwanted, and undeserving made that struggle understandable, even when I wanted her to let someone in.[/spoiler]
[spoiler]I also struggled when Ryker began questioning Faith’s innocence and pulled away after promising he would always be there for her. Given everything she’d been through, that distance hurt.[/spoiler]
🎧 Audio Notes
{duet} Thomas Oakley and Andi Arndt pulled me straight into this story with their duet narration. I felt like I was running for my life through the woods, desperate to uncover the truth and find justice for Faith.
The fear, frustration, emotional vulnerability, and eventual pursuit of justice all came through so vividly. The narration made an already compelling story feel even more immersive, and the audio is absolutely my favorite way to experience this book.
My Ratings: 4.25⭐️ | Spice: 3🌶️ | Audio: 5🎙️
What to expect:
* Brother’s best friend
* Forbidden romance
* Touch her and die
* Morally gray hero
* Grumpy hero
* Hidden pasts
* Forced proximity
* Foster care representation
* Found family
* Band of brothers
Recommended for: Morally gray romance readers who love protective heroes, found family, hard-won trust, and characters willing to do the wrong thing for the right reasons.
Thank you so much to Kathy Lockheart and Must Love Audio for the gifted ALC and paperback! ❤️
Narrated by Thomas Oakley and Andi Arndt.
Produced by Lyric Audiobooks.
July 2, 2026
I’m going to be sad when I finish this series. I’ve been inhaling it.
This isn’t my favourite one but I did like it a lot. The series is about five friends with different upbringings who form a very deep bond between them. Except for one, they’ve all become quite successful. The hero of this book is Ryker, the successful defence attorney. He’s always there to offer legal advice to any who need it. But this time it’s personal. Faith is our heroine. She’s sister to Blake, the hero of a previous book. Their parents were killed when Faith was quite young and she was put into foster care and growing up in the system was very traumatic for her. But she seems to have come out the other side, seems being the key word. Four of the guys are meeting in their meeting place one evening and Faith enters, covered in blood and announces she’s killed someone. Ryker jumps into action taking over things.Faith and her brother have only recently reconnected and she has met his friends. She and Ryker have developed strong feelings for each other so Ryker is very protective of her as he works to find out what happened and free her as Faith can’t remember much. So this is also a romantic suspense and a good one at that.
There’s a race against time as things aren’t looking good. We learn a lot about Faith and it’s very tragic. She does annoy me a bit with her denial there can be anything between her and Ryker. And her defeatist attitude gets a bit frustrating but considering past experiences, I could understand why this might be. The four friends all come together to help out Faith. As with the previous books, one of the highlights for me is the hilarious group texts the guys share. They made me laugh every one. One thing I need to mention is the previous books need to be read and in order. There are a few scenes in this story that are flashbacks to scenes that happened in previous books and it could get confusing if you haven’t read them.
So now I only have one more to go alas. This is a very good series and I highly recommend it.
This isn’t my favourite one but I did like it a lot. The series is about five friends with different upbringings who form a very deep bond between them. Except for one, they’ve all become quite successful. The hero of this book is Ryker, the successful defence attorney. He’s always there to offer legal advice to any who need it. But this time it’s personal. Faith is our heroine. She’s sister to Blake, the hero of a previous book. Their parents were killed when Faith was quite young and she was put into foster care and growing up in the system was very traumatic for her. But she seems to have come out the other side, seems being the key word. Four of the guys are meeting in their meeting place one evening and Faith enters, covered in blood and announces she’s killed someone. Ryker jumps into action taking over things.Faith and her brother have only recently reconnected and she has met his friends. She and Ryker have developed strong feelings for each other so Ryker is very protective of her as he works to find out what happened and free her as Faith can’t remember much. So this is also a romantic suspense and a good one at that.
There’s a race against time as things aren’t looking good. We learn a lot about Faith and it’s very tragic. She does annoy me a bit with her denial there can be anything between her and Ryker. And her defeatist attitude gets a bit frustrating but considering past experiences, I could understand why this might be. The four friends all come together to help out Faith. As with the previous books, one of the highlights for me is the hilarious group texts the guys share. They made me laugh every one. One thing I need to mention is the previous books need to be read and in order. There are a few scenes in this story that are flashbacks to scenes that happened in previous books and it could get confusing if you haven’t read them.
So now I only have one more to go alas. This is a very good series and I highly recommend it.
February 21, 2026
I received Doubt in return for an honest review from the author.
This is the fourth book in the Sinners and Saints series which features Ryker and Faith. The series is about five friends so the characters are all connected and part of each story. She's the sister of his best friend and as long as they denied the attraction sometimes you can only deny it so long. Faith is facing murder charges and it's up to Ryker to prove she's innocent before time runs out or she may end up spending her life in prison.
I've been waiting for Rykers story and his relationship with Faith is perfect. They have this undeniable connection even if they both try to avoid but that only works for so long now they are spending so much time together. I love Faith she's a sweetheart and Ryker has always been one of my favorites. The characters are easy to connect with you can't help loving them all.
I'm a huge fan of the authors books she's one of my auto-buy authors as I'm obsessed with her storytelling. I love every book of hers I have read each one has characters that I fall in love with that steal little places in my heart. A story that I have to devour in one reading session because I can't stop till the very last page. As with every book of hers I read it in one session completely hooked. I'm dying to get my hands on Knox's story and can't wait to see how it plays out. The series is dark romance but it's not to dark and it's a beautiful must read series and one of my favorites hands down.
This is the fourth book in the Sinners and Saints series which features Ryker and Faith. The series is about five friends so the characters are all connected and part of each story. She's the sister of his best friend and as long as they denied the attraction sometimes you can only deny it so long. Faith is facing murder charges and it's up to Ryker to prove she's innocent before time runs out or she may end up spending her life in prison.
I've been waiting for Rykers story and his relationship with Faith is perfect. They have this undeniable connection even if they both try to avoid but that only works for so long now they are spending so much time together. I love Faith she's a sweetheart and Ryker has always been one of my favorites. The characters are easy to connect with you can't help loving them all.
I'm a huge fan of the authors books she's one of my auto-buy authors as I'm obsessed with her storytelling. I love every book of hers I have read each one has characters that I fall in love with that steal little places in my heart. A story that I have to devour in one reading session because I can't stop till the very last page. As with every book of hers I read it in one session completely hooked. I'm dying to get my hands on Knox's story and can't wait to see how it plays out. The series is dark romance but it's not to dark and it's a beautiful must read series and one of my favorites hands down.
July 29, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
🌶️🌶️.5
There's been a murd3r you say...🤔 Romantic suspense, but he is her lawyer trying to keep her out of jail on a first degree homicide charge! Oh yes, sign me up!
A story of a traumatic childhood and learning how to survive through it all. The foster care representation touched me in a real way. Not only having to be in foster care myself, but showing others how it rarely is all sunshine, rainbows, and loving families❤️🩹Additionally, showing show corrupt the criminal justice system continues to be is truly heartbreaking! Faith's strength through all life threw at her was truly inspiring and a lesson in never giving up no matter how dire your circumstances may be.
The yearning push and pull between Ryker and Faith pulled at my heart strings the entire book. Even though their romance started before everything went downhill, these feelings between lawyer and client were totally unethical and deeply forbidden🫢Regardless, the way Ryker learned to love and support Faith while she was facing down the impossible could only warm any coldest heart.
A perfect representation of a found family supporting each other is literally everything. Everyone should have friends like these. Making foster care and inmate reintegration come full circle was the most special! Changing one life at a time 🥹
🌶️🌶️.5
There's been a murd3r you say...🤔 Romantic suspense, but he is her lawyer trying to keep her out of jail on a first degree homicide charge! Oh yes, sign me up!
A story of a traumatic childhood and learning how to survive through it all. The foster care representation touched me in a real way. Not only having to be in foster care myself, but showing others how it rarely is all sunshine, rainbows, and loving families❤️🩹Additionally, showing show corrupt the criminal justice system continues to be is truly heartbreaking! Faith's strength through all life threw at her was truly inspiring and a lesson in never giving up no matter how dire your circumstances may be.
The yearning push and pull between Ryker and Faith pulled at my heart strings the entire book. Even though their romance started before everything went downhill, these feelings between lawyer and client were totally unethical and deeply forbidden🫢Regardless, the way Ryker learned to love and support Faith while she was facing down the impossible could only warm any coldest heart.
A perfect representation of a found family supporting each other is literally everything. Everyone should have friends like these. Making foster care and inmate reintegration come full circle was the most special! Changing one life at a time 🥹
October 1, 2026
I swear to all things that are holy, this series has me in such a damn chokehold. I can't stop, won't stop at this point. It's my new hyper fixation. And the audio for this series?!?! I'm bound and gagged on the floor.
Just when I think this series can't possibly get any better, Kathy says hold my beer and she delivers a book that you simply can't put down. The plot for Doubt was so freaking good and I was sucked in like a hoover vacuum from page one! The plot in question: a criminal defense attorney who happens to be sneaking around and in love with his best friends little sister but plot twist, she shows up covered in blood with a knife in hand needing a lawyer. She's been accused of mürder and he has to prove she's innocent. AHHHHHH!!!! I'm telling you, the elements of suspense and how this one played out had me eating out of the palm of Kathy's hand.
This book had everything. A banging plot. Thick tension. Forbidden desires. Toe curling spice. A morally grey hero who will go to the ends of the earth to end anyone who puts his girl in danger. A Band of brothers who provide comedic relief. This whole series is so well rounded and if you are sleeping on it, I'm gonna need you stop it because it's so freaking good.
Now we need to talk about the audio because that's how I am consuming these books and it's how I advise you consume these books because the DUET NARRATION within this series is top freaking tear perfection! Doubt is narrated by Thomas Oakley and Andi Arndt and they killed it! Could not have chosen a better pairing to bring this book alive.
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Must Love Audio for allowing me the pleasure of listening to Doubt as an ALC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
Just when I think this series can't possibly get any better, Kathy says hold my beer and she delivers a book that you simply can't put down. The plot for Doubt was so freaking good and I was sucked in like a hoover vacuum from page one! The plot in question: a criminal defense attorney who happens to be sneaking around and in love with his best friends little sister but plot twist, she shows up covered in blood with a knife in hand needing a lawyer. She's been accused of mürder and he has to prove she's innocent. AHHHHHH!!!! I'm telling you, the elements of suspense and how this one played out had me eating out of the palm of Kathy's hand.
This book had everything. A banging plot. Thick tension. Forbidden desires. Toe curling spice. A morally grey hero who will go to the ends of the earth to end anyone who puts his girl in danger. A Band of brothers who provide comedic relief. This whole series is so well rounded and if you are sleeping on it, I'm gonna need you stop it because it's so freaking good.
Now we need to talk about the audio because that's how I am consuming these books and it's how I advise you consume these books because the DUET NARRATION within this series is top freaking tear perfection! Doubt is narrated by Thomas Oakley and Andi Arndt and they killed it! Could not have chosen a better pairing to bring this book alive.
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Must Love Audio for allowing me the pleasure of listening to Doubt as an ALC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
March 24, 2026
OH HOW THE TABLES HAVE TURNED, RYKER. Book 1 followed Ryker’s sister, Tessa and her relationship with Ryker’s BFF, Blake. Blake was warned off Tessa since they were in their teens, but now Ryker is into Blake’s sister! Muahaha but there’s a wrench in their burgeoning relationship: she shows up to his house needing a lawyer because she’s covered in blood with a knife in her hand and no memory of what happened. They need to stay professional for the sake of her case and freedom, but there’s a pull they can’t deny…
All of the women in this series has had trauma or a difficult upbringing, but still maintains their sense of self and moral compass. The suspense in these books has been pretty good and has kept me hooked. And I love how the characters at some point or another coincidentally is woven with another MC. Ryker is BFFs with Blake, who gets with Tessa (book 1). Tessa is friends with Scarlett, who gets with other BFF Jace (book 2). Other BFF Axel gets with the other BFF, Knox’s little sister, Dakota (book 3). Ryker gets with Blake’s little sister, Faith (book 4). Faith meets new neighbor who happens to be a nurse at the same penitentiary as Knox (book 5). This series is its own little universe and I’m not mad about it. Can’t wait for the next book!
All of the women in this series has had trauma or a difficult upbringing, but still maintains their sense of self and moral compass. The suspense in these books has been pretty good and has kept me hooked. And I love how the characters at some point or another coincidentally is woven with another MC. Ryker is BFFs with Blake, who gets with Tessa (book 1). Tessa is friends with Scarlett, who gets with other BFF Jace (book 2). Other BFF Axel gets with the other BFF, Knox’s little sister, Dakota (book 3). Ryker gets with Blake’s little sister, Faith (book 4). Faith meets new neighbor who happens to be a nurse at the same penitentiary as Knox (book 5). This series is its own little universe and I’m not mad about it. Can’t wait for the next book!
September 15, 2026
Book: Doubt (Sinner and Saints Book #4)
Author: Kathy Lockhart
Stars: 4.5⭐
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
My Review: Welcome back to the Sinners and Saints club.
It's now time for Faith Morrison & Ryker Kincaid story.
Faith is Blake's Sister & Ryker's brother-in-law
**I killed a man.**
**Will Ryker choose to stay…**
**or will I lose the only man who ever made me believe I was worth loving?**
Faith is charged with murder, which is a bit of a problem for Ryker, as he has already fallen in love with her. It’s also a conflict of interest because he is her lawyer. Although he wants to get her off, he is never entirely sure whether she is actually guilty.
The story of how different Faith's experiences were to Blake's in Foster Care. While we go through all of the worst scenarios with what Faith lived through. We also get to see what she overcame and became in spite of them.
The story is really tied up with Knox with a few visits to him and some sound advice from him.
The scenes were romantic and intense. Can Ryker be there for her and not just her lawyer.
Tropes:
💜 Brother’s Best Friend Forbidden Romance
💜 “Touch Her and Die” Energy
💜 Possessive, Protective, Morally Gray Hero
💜 Grumpy Hero
💜 Secrets, Lies & Hidden Pasts
💜 Forced Proximity & Protective Sanctuary
Prompt
470 Pages
Release date: 12 February 2026
Alpha Male Romance • Romance Suspense
Book: 4 of 5 Sinners and Saints
4.17⭐ on GoodReads
Author: Kathy Lockhart
Stars: 4.5⭐
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
My Review: Welcome back to the Sinners and Saints club.
It's now time for Faith Morrison & Ryker Kincaid story.
Faith is Blake's Sister & Ryker's brother-in-law
**I killed a man.**
**Will Ryker choose to stay…**
**or will I lose the only man who ever made me believe I was worth loving?**
Faith is charged with murder, which is a bit of a problem for Ryker, as he has already fallen in love with her. It’s also a conflict of interest because he is her lawyer. Although he wants to get her off, he is never entirely sure whether she is actually guilty.
The story of how different Faith's experiences were to Blake's in Foster Care. While we go through all of the worst scenarios with what Faith lived through. We also get to see what she overcame and became in spite of them.
The story is really tied up with Knox with a few visits to him and some sound advice from him.
The scenes were romantic and intense. Can Ryker be there for her and not just her lawyer.
Tropes:
💜 Brother’s Best Friend Forbidden Romance
💜 “Touch Her and Die” Energy
💜 Possessive, Protective, Morally Gray Hero
💜 Grumpy Hero
💜 Secrets, Lies & Hidden Pasts
💜 Forced Proximity & Protective Sanctuary
Prompt
470 Pages
Release date: 12 February 2026
Alpha Male Romance • Romance Suspense
Book: 4 of 5 Sinners and Saints
4.17⭐ on GoodReads
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2026
doubt Picks up right where bound left off, so if you haven't read it yet, you'll want to start there. Ryker and Faith's first meeting (and their one night stand) happens in bound, and this book doesn't slow down to catch you up. 👀
Faith's story is heavy and deeply moving. Her childhood in foster care left lasting scars, but it also gave her incredible resilience. When she becomes the prime suspect in a murder she can't remember, her fear and vulnerability feel painfully real. Watching her face the weight of her past while fighting to hold onto herself? Impossible not to root for her. 🥹
And Ryker. The golden boy. The morally gray hero who will go to the ends of the earth for the people he loves, with the honor to always stand by what he believes. 🖤
This installment is high stakes, emotional, and raw. Between the murder accusation, buried secrets, and complicated feelings, the tension never lets up.
🎧 The audiobook, narrated by Thomas Oakley & Andi Arndt, was amazing!
things to know
Duet narration, dual pov, Mentions of attempted SA of a youth, Mention of childhood abuse, Stalking, Murder, Sibling separation, Violence, Gore, Mention of loss of parents, brother’s best friend, forbidden, touch her & die, grumpy mmc, possessive protective& morally gray, secret, lies & hidden past, forced proximity, protective sanctuary
Faith's story is heavy and deeply moving. Her childhood in foster care left lasting scars, but it also gave her incredible resilience. When she becomes the prime suspect in a murder she can't remember, her fear and vulnerability feel painfully real. Watching her face the weight of her past while fighting to hold onto herself? Impossible not to root for her. 🥹
And Ryker. The golden boy. The morally gray hero who will go to the ends of the earth for the people he loves, with the honor to always stand by what he believes. 🖤
This installment is high stakes, emotional, and raw. Between the murder accusation, buried secrets, and complicated feelings, the tension never lets up.
🎧 The audiobook, narrated by Thomas Oakley & Andi Arndt, was amazing!
things to know
Duet narration, dual pov, Mentions of attempted SA of a youth, Mention of childhood abuse, Stalking, Murder, Sibling separation, Violence, Gore, Mention of loss of parents, brother’s best friend, forbidden, touch her & die, grumpy mmc, possessive protective& morally gray, secret, lies & hidden past, forced proximity, protective sanctuary
October 7, 2026
Doubt by Kathy Lockheart pulled me in with its unsettling premise: Faith finds herself in the woods, standing over a dead body with no memory of what happened. What follows blends suspense and romance with emotional depth, healing, and found family.
I loved the tension between Faith and Ryker. As her lawyer, he’s navigating his feelings for her alongside his professional responsibilities and his own uncertainty about what happened. That conflict added so much to their relationship, especially as Faith struggled with her memories and the fear of losing someone she cares about.
The mystery kept me invested, but the emotional side of the story made it stand out for me. Beneath the questions of guilt and innocence is a story about trust, vulnerability, and finding support when your life feels like it’s falling apart.
I listened to the audiobook, which features duet narration by Thomas Oakley and Andi Arndt. Even without reading the previous books, I was able to follow the story and now I want to go back and read the others! I’m especially looking forward to Knox’s story.
Thank you for the advance listening copy!
I loved the tension between Faith and Ryker. As her lawyer, he’s navigating his feelings for her alongside his professional responsibilities and his own uncertainty about what happened. That conflict added so much to their relationship, especially as Faith struggled with her memories and the fear of losing someone she cares about.
The mystery kept me invested, but the emotional side of the story made it stand out for me. Beneath the questions of guilt and innocence is a story about trust, vulnerability, and finding support when your life feels like it’s falling apart.
I listened to the audiobook, which features duet narration by Thomas Oakley and Andi Arndt. Even without reading the previous books, I was able to follow the story and now I want to go back and read the others! I’m especially looking forward to Knox’s story.
Thank you for the advance listening copy!
October 7, 2026
My least favorite of the series by far. Took me forever to finish too, unlike the first 3. Some things are getting pretty repetitive but I try to overlook most of it since it is a series of the same characters. Unfortunately this book had a great plot line but went nowhere. The entire story is just character development of Faith and then how Rykers affection changes for her. That’s it. I felt like she could have done so much more with the legalities and court proceedings of the story but instead the main facts of Faith’s case came to light by the lawyers confronting each other on personal time… those scenes felt rushed and unrealistic. But that was the only thing that felt rushed. The rest of the storyline drug on without any real build up. No mention of how long Ryker had to build this case or when the first court dates would be. And then the whole thing comes to a close because the security footage got revealed? Something that should have been discovered day one of investigating. Felt like too big of a stretch. My negative feelings toward this book will not deter me from reading Knox’s story though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2026
Absolutely fantastic duet narration by Thomas Oakley and Andi Arndt. I think Thomas is a new to me narrator and he was great! Andi of course is always fantastic.
This series has been out of this world great. I have loved each and every one of them. So far, this one has to be my favorite. I adore Faith and Ryker's story. The trauma, the grief, the angst, the banter, and everything else to do with their story is absolutely written gold. There is lots of emotion and suspense in this novel to get you hocked on page 1 and continues till the end.
Faith has been through the trauma wringer and is still standing tall. Ryker wants to be her shield, but she is afraid to let him.
Another banger from Kathy Lockheart! Thank you to Kathy and Valentine PR for the ALC.
Fans of
✔️ Brother’s Best Friend Forbidden Romance
✔️ “Touch Her and Die” Energy
✔️ Possessive, Protective, Morally Gray Hero
✔️ Grumpy Hero
✔️ Secrets, Lies & Hidden Pasts
✔️ Forced Proximity & Protective Sanctuary
will love this story!
This series has been out of this world great. I have loved each and every one of them. So far, this one has to be my favorite. I adore Faith and Ryker's story. The trauma, the grief, the angst, the banter, and everything else to do with their story is absolutely written gold. There is lots of emotion and suspense in this novel to get you hocked on page 1 and continues till the end.
Faith has been through the trauma wringer and is still standing tall. Ryker wants to be her shield, but she is afraid to let him.
Another banger from Kathy Lockheart! Thank you to Kathy and Valentine PR for the ALC.
Fans of
✔️ Brother’s Best Friend Forbidden Romance
✔️ “Touch Her and Die” Energy
✔️ Possessive, Protective, Morally Gray Hero
✔️ Grumpy Hero
✔️ Secrets, Lies & Hidden Pasts
✔️ Forced Proximity & Protective Sanctuary
will love this story!
October 8, 2026
Kathy is absolutely killing this series! Each book keeps me on the edge of my seat and salivating for more!
🖤Brother’s best friend
🖤Protective MMC
🖤Lawyer x accused k!ller
🖤Hidden pasts
We got a glimpse into Ryker and Faith’s budding feelings in the previous book, but now we start this book with a bang, literally.
Faith shows up with a bl00dy kn!fe and no conscience memories of what happened. Ryker jumps in to be her defense attorney, but he’s also skeptical of her amnesia.
We really go through it in this one! I understand Ryker’s conflicting thoughts throughout the book, while I also felt SO bad for Faith and her circumstances… this girl just needed a break!!
Thomas Oakley and Andi Arndt go a phenomenal job narrating this audiobook in duet narration. Their voices absolutely fit the characters and their feelings throughout.
Now I seriously CANNOT WAIT for the next book!!!
🖤Brother’s best friend
🖤Protective MMC
🖤Lawyer x accused k!ller
🖤Hidden pasts
We got a glimpse into Ryker and Faith’s budding feelings in the previous book, but now we start this book with a bang, literally.
Faith shows up with a bl00dy kn!fe and no conscience memories of what happened. Ryker jumps in to be her defense attorney, but he’s also skeptical of her amnesia.
We really go through it in this one! I understand Ryker’s conflicting thoughts throughout the book, while I also felt SO bad for Faith and her circumstances… this girl just needed a break!!
Thomas Oakley and Andi Arndt go a phenomenal job narrating this audiobook in duet narration. Their voices absolutely fit the characters and their feelings throughout.
Now I seriously CANNOT WAIT for the next book!!!
February 20, 2026
Loved this book, my fav of the series. From the start I was desperate to know what happened in the woods. I was worried it might drag across a whole court case but I was really happy with the ending even though you didn’t find out what happened until nearly the end. Didn’t love the Judge then going homicidal and Ryker becoming a killer though. But still enjoyed the book. I’m now going to be impatiently waiting for Knox and Harpers book because obviously saw that coming. But also what happened to her and what did Knox do!!!!! Didn’t know I loved a mystery so much 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2026
Reading this felt like pulling teeth. It was so incredibly boring. He’s trying to defend the FMC from murder charges but they don’t even solve anything till the very end. It was dragged out. It was weird because I was intrigued by the mmc in the earlier books in the series and was excited to read his book. It didn’t deliver. The FMC is constantly hiding things, the mmc is accusing her and confronting. It’s this annoying back and forth but not in a fun banter way.
February 26, 2026
This book took me a minute to read and it wasn’t because I wasn’t into it I just didn’t have time to read. Once I was able to sit down. I read it in two days. I loved this book and Faith and Rykers story might actually have been my favorite so far. Excited for Trust to come out in April.
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