Trust: A Forbidden Prison Romance

Sinners and Saints #5

by Kathy Lockheart

He’s a convicted killer.
I’m his nurse.
And he saw my bruises.

Now he keeps getting hurt on purpose,
just to see that I’m safe.

As a prison nurse, I keep my heart locked away tighter than the men I treat.
No gray areas.
No second chances.

Especially not after escaping my abusive ex.

Then Knox Blackwood, the most dangerous man in the prison, winds up in my infirmary.

Whatever he did to get locked up remains the prison’s darkest secret.

He should terrify me.

Instead, he sees what no one else does.
The scars.
The flinch when a door slams.
The fear I can’t bury.

“Who hurt you?” he growls.

When I don’t answer, Knox starts showing up in my infirmary every day.
New wounds.
Suspicious injuries.

Getting hurt on purpose,
just for five minutes with me.

Just to make sure I’m safe.

I tell myself I can’t fall for an inmate.
I won’t.

Especially not one who’s now harboring a violent vendetta against my ex.

But every stolen touch feels like salvation.
And every whispered promise paves the road to our future.

Knox is one parole hearing from freedom.

If we stay careful, maybe he’ll get out.
Reunite with his daughter.
And we’ll have a life beyond these walls.

All I have to do
is keep Knox from killing the man who hurt me.

That’s the plan.

Until my violent ex steps into the prison
as Knox’s new guard…



From an International & Amazon top 25 bestselling author, TRUST is a forbidden romance featuring an obsessive, morally gray prisoner willing to risk his only shot at freedom to protect her.

✔️ Forbidden nurse/inmate romance

✔️ Obsessive, possessive morally gray hero

✔️ “Touch Her and Die” energy

✔️ “Who Hurt You?” protector vibes

✔️ Forced proximity in a prison setting

✔️ Alpha male with everything to lose


Standalone. Unputdownable HEA.
Trigger Warnings: Please visit the author’s website for the full list.

Genres: Dark Romance, Romance, Forced Proximity, Dark, Found Family, Forbidden Romance, Romantic Suspense

502 pages, Paperback

First published April 29, 2026

About the author

★ 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.

SECRETS AND THE CITY
Deadly Illusion
Fatal Cure
Lethal Justice
Grave Deception

Vendetta Duet
Secret Vendetta
Silent Vendetta

Cross Duet
Crossfire
Crossover

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Reviews

[Kursed Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fleeing Indiana and her abusive ex, Harper Mitchell, finds herself working in the infirmary of Coldwater Penitentiary, a medium security prison. On her first day, she meets Knox Blackwood, a convicted murderer, requiring treatment following a fight he was at the center of.

Listen… Listen… LISTEN! I went into this book with some preconceived notions. I got something fairly different than what I expected, but it was everything I didn’t know I wanted. Knox is fucking swoony. He’s soft and insightful, the kind of protective you don’t want to be on the wrong side of, and the definition of sex on a stick. There wasn’t as much steam as I typically prefer, but Trust ticked all the emotional boxes. This was my first book by Kathy Lockwood, but absolutely not my last. Generally I won’t go back to the start of a series if I start in the middle, but I actually might with this one. Every single side character has me intrigued!!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Format: 📱

🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Dark-ish, Mystery/Suspense, New Adult

Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
Emotions: 😳🫠😊🤯😍
Darkness: 🩶🩶
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
Spice: 🌶️🌶️

✨ Tropes: Forced Proximity, Found Family, Heroine in Danger, Instalove/Insta-Obsession, Opposites Attract, Secret Relationship, Single Parent, Workplace
 
💫 Microtropes: Boy Obsessed, Caretaker/Protective MMC, Forehead Kisses, “Good Girl”, Panty Thief, Pet Name (Princess), Size Difference, Tattooed MMC, Tragic Past, “Who Hurt You?”

🔆 Character: Nurse, Prisoner

💋 Kinks: Finger Licking Good, Handcuffs, Toys as Teammates

🤰🏻 Pregnancy: n/a

🚩 Red Flags: Dominant MMC, MINE!, Touch-Her-and-💀

⛔️ Safety Squad: Domestic Violence (Not by MMC), Unaliving, Violence, and other potentially triggering elements. Triggers may appear both on- and off-page and in the past and/or present. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!

📍 Setting: Chicago, Illinois USA

📣 Type: Trust is the part of the Sinners & Saints series of interconnected standalones.

⚠️ Warning: This sweet and steamy read will leave your panties damp and your cheeks flushed.

🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.

[Lea ★ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️
i have to admit, this was sososo good and i LOVED the couple!! went into this bc i saw the narrator live on tiktok voicing the fmc and thought it would be fun to read it!! gen such a good book with lovable characters

[Olga 🌺 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet ending to the Saints and Sinners series. I adored book 1 and 2. Skipped 3 and disliked 4. Book 5 was also a good one but for some reason I expected more.
More emotion. More angst. More tears. More passion. You get the gist.

Knox had such a beautiful character growth. I love his reasoning, why he decided in a crucial moment to end a man's life. To be honest, many would have done the same. I draw a red line when it comes to pedophiles.
Knox's life was so unfair and heartbreaking.
I wanted to see more interaction with his daughter, Gwen, once he left prison.
I wanted some insecurity from Harper regarding Knox's ex. Yes we know that he didn't really love her but still she's the mother of his child. I wanted drama there.
I wanted more romantic moments between Knox and Harper. I mean yeah they love each other but it was not epic. And also I wish the author addressed the issue of Knox's unconditional love for Harper. Was it because she was pretty and obviously in distress? Was it because she was available? Was it because he felt a connection or because she was convenient? What happens when he leaves jail and he has so many women literally drooling at the sight of him! Will he still vow by Harper? I wanted that addressed as well.

Can I just say how stupidly idiotic Axel is! I had to skip all their group chat conversations because I just couldn't handle his silliness! 🙄
And Ryker, why don't you take a chill pill man! I predict him an aneurism by the age of 36 (he's currently 35!).

A sweet tearjerker moment was the scene where Gwen gives her father the pink album. Be still my heart! My heart broke for them especially for Knox. My favourite part of the book for sure.

Harper was a hot and cold character for me. I felt for her. I wanted to protect her and wished all the best for her. And I do understand her trauma and where she is coming from, I really do. But she was so distant and emotionally detached when it came to Knox. I wanted more small gestures. Endearing moments. More touches and hugs and small kisses and comfort.

Anyway, the book was really good. Great ending to an inconsistent series.

[Emmy Wong · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the beautiful and heart wrenching conclusion to the Sinners and Saints series, a series about 5 billionaire best friends who are all their own brand of unhinged. Now I have loved every single book in this series but this one, shocked me and wrecked me in a way so beautiful yet terrifying that I can’t explain. I love a forbidden romance and a prisoner x nurse romance more than anything, but this one was so unbelievably angsty. Knox has so much on the line, one mistake and he may lose his chance at reconnecting with his daughter. Harper is incredibly scarred from her abusive ex, yet can’t help falling for the murder convict who would burn the world for her while whispering sweet nothings in her ear. This plot was just insane, tension at MAX level, and I was crying through at least 50% of it. The plot twists were horrifying yet so incredibly GENIUS. There were so many parts I wanted to kick and scream, and this boom was practically glued to my hand because I could not put it down. After everything they’ve been through, no one deserves a HEA more than them. Let’s talk about Knox because he’s such a contradictory character. On one hands he’s the strong, six-four tattooed prisoner convicted for murder that everyone else is incredibly afraid of. But one look at Harper and he melts like ice cream on a hot summers day. He’s so unhinged, because what do you mean he got himself hurt just to get sent to the infirmary to see her? What do you mean he was willing to risk losing his parole just to save her? He takes Touch her and Die to the best level. And not only is he unhinged, but also incredibly sweet and observant, he notices everything from the slightest hitch of her breath to the furrow of her brow, this man worships her like she’s his religion. But I’m also obsessed with his character development, how Harper gave him hope and encouragement to finally be the father he’s always his daughter to have. Harper is also such a badass character who also goes through a lot of character change, as she heals and starts seeing things in a different way. What I loved most, was how they fit so perfectly together, how they fixed each others souls, and how despite all struggles they came back together. This book is one of the best things I’ve read recently (but watch out because those twists are EVIL and YOU WILL CRY). I give this a 5/5

[Anca A · Rating 5 out of 5]

#Review: *Trust* - Kathy Lockheart - ARC [18+]
4.6/5✨
3/5🌶️

Knox Blackwood was an inmate in the prison where Harper started working as a nurse. She was trying to get away from her abusive ex, but that place was definitely not for her, considering the fact that she flinched at each thing that happened in her proximity. But Knox saw that and decided that Harper must be protected by him and that meant getting himself hurt, in order to be near her. Knox shouldn't have any missteps because the freedom he so ardently desired was so close, but can he keep his anger at bay when it came to protecting Harper to not affect his entire future?

I was instantly captivated by this story and by these amazing characters. Both Knox and Harper had a complex past, one which was still consuming them so much in the present. I was so curious about finding out Knox's story, to know why he was present in that prison for so many years. Even though he had many weaknesses when it came to his loved ones, Knox was a good man who would do anything to protect the ones near him. He instantly felt attracted to Harper, even before seeing her, being the cause of their first encounter in the infirmary. All those glances and short secret interactions made them get closer to each other, enhancing that tension which was present between them. The forbidden side of their connection was so good, making everything more dangerous and intense. I also liked that we still had that amazing connection between the other guys from the Sinners and Saints brotherhood, having so many funny moments which included them. There were a couple of suspenseful moments which took my breath away, feeling like I could just jump into the book and help them myself🥹.

I had such a great time reading this book and unraveling Knox's story. It was emotional, tense, raw, dangerous and sweet, making it a true rollercoaster of feelings. I feel sad that this series is ending with this one, but that last part of this story was quite interesting and I'm guessing that we will soon meet some another new and amazing characters, which are going to steal our hearts away 🤭.

Thank you so much Kathy and Valentine Pr for this e-ARC. I loved it so much!🩵

✨Tropes
▫️Forbidden Love
▫️Man Obsessed
▫️Morally Grey Hero
▫️Touch Her And Die
▫️Protective MMC
▫️Forced Proximity
▫️Angst
▫️Band Of Brothers
▫️Opposites Attract
▫️Slow Burn

[b cozy book lounge · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is hands down my favourite in the Sinners and Saints series. Kathy Lockheart absolutely delivered, this book is intense, emotional, raw, and beautifully written.

Harper is on the run from her abusive ex, Silas, a manipulative, dangerous man who refuses to let her go. After growing up with alcoholic parents, she’s already fought hard to survive, and now she’s just trying to build a life where she finally feels safe.

Knox… wow. Serving a 25-year sentence for murder (14 years already served, with two denied paroles), he’s known as the most dangerous inmate, 6’4, covered in tattoos, and completely shut off from the world. The only thing grounding him is the hope of seeing his daughter again. He writes her letters… but never sends them.

When Knox overhears another inmate threatening to assault the new nurse, he completely loses control, and that moment changes everything.

That nurse is Harper.

What follows is a slow, powerful connection built in the most unlikely place. Knox notices her fear immediately, the bruise on her cheek, and quietly becomes her protector. He finds ways to be near her, eventually working in the infirmary just to see her every day.

Their relationship is everything: intense, emotional, and deeply healing. Harper isn’t afraid of Knox the way others are. She sees beyond the tattoos and reputation to the man underneath, caring, gentle, and fiercely protective. And Knox? He starts to feel again. After years of just existing, Harper brings him back to life, smiles, laughter, hope.

But the tension never lets up.

When Harper finds a note—“Found you – S”—and Silas shows up as a new corrections officer… everything escalates. The stakes skyrocket, and Knox is willing to sacrifice everything to protect her, while Harper fights to stand on her own two feet.

This book took me on a full emotional journey. I cried ugly tears (Chapter 64 absolutely broke me), laughed out loud (the Sinners and Saints group chat—Axel is chaos 😂), and sat on the edge of my seat more times than I can count.

Kathy Lockheart captured every emotion so vividly, you feel everything right alongside these characters.
I’ve been waiting for Knox’s story since meeting him in earlier books, and it was so worth it. She truly saved the best for last.

Loved every second. Every word. Every emotion.

[Sim-fully Ever After · Rating 4 out of 5]

4🌟, 3🌶️

This book honestly surprised me in the best way.

The prison nurse and inmate dynamic brought so much tension right away, but Knox was really the heart of this book for me. Beneath all the possessive, morally gray energy, he was surprisingly soft and caring, especially when it came to Harper and his daughter. Some of his quieter moments genuinely hit me emotionally.

I really liked the mix of angst, suspense, and romance throughout the story. Knox and Harper had great chemistry, and watching Harper slowly let her guard down felt natural and satisfying. The protective “touch her and die” energy, the forced proximity, and all the twists kept me completely hooked. I just found myself wanting a little more emotional depth and a few more softer moments between them to make their connection feel even stronger.

Still, Knox’s character growth was easily my favorite part, and the ending left me feeling emotional in the best way. Even with a few things I wanted more of, this was still such an addictive read that kept me invested the entire time.

This book reminded me why I love messy, emotional romances so much.

~~~~

Huge thank you to Kathy Lockheart & Valentine PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨

[queen_of_the_books_18 · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the ones who stopped believing they deserved a happily ever after. Your past is not your ending.

Trust is book 5 in the Sinner’s and Saints series but can be read as a standalone. The tropes intrigued me but now I’m 100% going back to book 1 because the characters have me so intrigued. Especially Axel! He had me dying with laughter.

My moneys on a butt plug that harnesses electricity from his colon.

The tension between Knox and Harper while he was in prison was absolute fire and had me turning the pages. Once that forbidden aspect was taken away, it went a little flat for me which is why it wasn’t 5 stars. I expected some sort of consequence from their forbidden romance. That being said though, this is definitely worth the read if you love the forbidden trope.

🖤Prison inmate/she’s his nurse
🖤Forbidden
🖤Touch her and 💀
🖤Forced proximity
🖤Possessive MC

[A · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨️ARC Read
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶🌶
Happy Ending

[Bri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK

[Amanda Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

OBSESSED. I could not put this book down! I LOVE Knox & Harper 🥹🥹🥹 & that extended epilogue was EVERYTHING.

[Ashly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is full “this is a terrible idea but we’re doing it anyway” energy from page one.

Tropes:
Prison Setting
Forbidden Everything
...and two people who absolutely should not be getting involved… getting very involved

Like the tension isn’t subtle. It’s very much:
eye contact → bad decisions → worse decisions → feelings → panic → repeat

The MMC? Dangerous in that quiet, controlled way where you know he’s holding back… until he’s not. He’s not loud about it, but the second he locks in, it’s over.

The vibe is very much:
“stay away from me”
immediately followed by
“actually don’t go anywhere”...Cause we live for the back and forth sometimes 🤷‍♀️

The FMC is doing her best to be logical....like she knows this is risky, messy, and probably going to ruin her life… and yet she keeps showing up anyway. Which, honestly, same 😂

Also Tropes:
Sneaking around like no one is watching (spoiler: everyone is watching)
Tension so thick it’s stressful
Choices that make you go “girl PLEASE” but you keep reading

Is it healthy? Absolutely not.
Is it smart? Also no.
Did I eat it up anyway? Yes.


This is peak forbidden romance chaos with high tension and questionable decisions. Kathy always delivers honestly and I have been eating up very single book in this series!

[Han · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely phenomenal- from start to finish! Once I started reading, I could not put this book down. Knox has taken the title of my favorite despite my love for Ryker. The redemption story mixed in with the pure, raw emotion in this book wrecked me in the best way possible.

Knox may come off as a brute but dear lord, this man loves with all his heart. He’s honestly the biggest teddy bear underneath the tough guy bravado he has to put on. The emotions packed behind the reason why he’s in prison and his strained relationship with his daughter broke my heart in two. I was ugly crying, laughing, and swooning throughout the entire book. Watching him wanting to become a better man for not only Harper but his family as well was packed full of raw, intense emotions. I feel for Harper because I fell in love with this man with my entire heart.

Harper is so down to earth and full of love even those she’s running from her past. She’s swept her off her feet with Knox’s protective, possessive nature. These two had chemistry that was undeniable. Harper becomes an anchor and a safe space for Knox when he needs it most. There was nothing but pure, genuine love between these two.

[Christie Wilcox]

✔️ Forbidden nurse/inmate romance

✔️ Obsessive, possessive morally gray hero

✔️ “Touch Her and Die” energy

✔️ “Who Hurt You?” protector vibes

✔️ Forced proximity in a prison setting

✔️ Alpha male with everything to lose

[JoyceLynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait for this book to come & baby it did not disappoint!!
FIIIIIRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEE 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 THIS. SERIES. DID. NOT. COME. TO. PLAY 😮‍🔥😮‍🔥😮‍🔥

I’ve been hooked since book ONE but THIS FINAL BOOK?!?!?! BABYYYY it SNAPPED, it CRACKED, it CONSUMED ME WHOLE 😤💥 I’m talking FULL BODY REACTION—heart racing, chest tight, yelling at the pages like I personally knew these people!!!

This wasn’t just a story… this was CHAOS. This was PAIN. This was OBSESSION in its most feral, unhinged, no-rules, burn-the-world-down form 😮‍🔥💔 Secrets on top of trauma on top of guilt—just layers and layers of emotional DAMAGE and I was EATING IT UP!!!

And the LOVE?!?!?! I was sooo there for Knox & Harper - Oh this wasn’t soft… this was VIOLENT devotion. The kind of love that ruins you, rebuilds you, then dares anybody to try it again 😤 The kind that don’t make sense to nobody else but to THEM it’s EVERYTHING. Impossible?? SHOULD’VE BEEN. But nah… they MADE it possible in the most raw, chaotic, breathtaking way!!!

I CRIEDDDDD 😭 like ugly cried from the pain… then turned around and was crying laughing like WHAT IS WRONG WITH Y’ALL 😂 this book had me emotionally unwell in the BEST way!!!

AND THE SPICE?!?!?! 😮‍🔥😮‍🔥😮‍🔥 not even the main course—just the icing—but BABY it was THICK, RICH, and had me clutching my chest!!!

NOW AXELLLLLLLLL 😤😂 SIRRRRRRRRRRR—YOU MENACE!!! Whole time I wanted to fight you AND fold for you at the same damn time!!! An ASSHOLE??? ABSOLUTELY. But funny?! Loyal?! Ten toes DOWN?! Say less 😮‍🔥 The banter was lethal between them …the bond was unbreakable, and the way they LOVED?!?! Yeah… that’s that dangerous, no-coming-back type!!!

And RAINBOWWWW 🥺💔 she went THROUGH IT. I mean dragged, broken, tested 😂😂🫣

Everything CLICKED. Everything LANDED. Nothing felt wasted. And the REAL heartbreak??? It ending 😭 because ain’t no way I gotta leave this world behind like that!!!

5/5 ⭐️ ain’t even enough—this was an EXPERIENCE, a SPIRAL, a full-on EMOTIONAL POSSESSION 😮‍🔥🔥 and I’m STILL not recovered!!! I would read this series again just because it was that good!!!

[The Bou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trust is the final instalment in the series, and we were all waiting for the dark and mysterious Knox!!!

Harper overthinking everything was annoying.
I stopped counting the number of times the words “convicted murderer” were written.

Her inability to look past the fact that Knox killed someone was also frustrating. It didn’t make her feel worthy of him, and it didn’t make sense given her past. If anyone shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, it should have been her!
The book raised some deep questions, which I absolutely loved, especially the idea of taking a life to defend someone, and the consequences of acting as judge, jury, and executioner.

Now that being said I thank Axel for the light moments as we needed it!!

Did I cry? Yes, I did 😭

Now that the series is over I would say Jace was my fav! Then Ryker.

[Anjali · Rating 3 out of 5]

this is so wattpad. i would’ve loved it more if it was a slower burn tho.

[Michaele · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️❤️

[nihi · Rating 2 out of 5]

probably 1.5 stars. it was fun!! after i got halfway i lost interest though. im going to watch the punisher rn!!!

[Michaela Pratt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another night shift read. I could never be a prison nurse but I already knew that.

[Sheridan Mullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kathy, has outdone herself with this one. This is by far my favorite book in the Saints and Sinners series! The characters are flawlessly written, the tension between Knox and Harper is thick, and the forbidden aspect is absolutely chef’s kiss.

The plot is executed so well and kept me engaged the entire time. I fell in love with Knox even before fully understanding the choices that led him to jail. And Harper has such depth to her character. She has something special that really pulls you in.

The intimacy between Knox and Harper is handled so delicately yet still feels strong and impactful, if that makes sense. You can feel it in every interaction, and when they finally give in, it’s fireworks.

The friend group, especially Axel, had me cracking up. It was the perfect comedic relief to balance the heavier moments. I loved every group chat and interaction.
This is easily my favorite from Kathy. I definitely recommend!

[Christine Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trust by Kathy Lockheart is the fifth and final book in the Sinners and Saints series and oh my. This. Book. I really don't know where to start. There are times when I'm lucky enough to review a book for an author, that I worry about my ability to eloquently praise the book. I fear that, not being a writer myself, I'm not equipped to adequately describe in my review the brilliance that is the author's work. That's where I'm at with this book. Trust was one of my most anticipated reads this year and it did not disappoint; in fact, it exceeded any and all of my expectations and is one of my absolute favorite books of the year. Every book in the Sinners and Saints series was a five star read for me and this one was no exception. This book was such an incredible way to close out the series. I'm going to miss these guys and gals so much, but this book was such a brilliant conclusion to everyone's stories (make sure you read the extended epilogue which you can find on the author's website).

Trust follows Knox and Harper. We've seen glimpses of Knox throughout all four of the previous books, and I've been eagerly awaiting his story. What happened to him? Why is he in prison? Who did he murder and why? Why hasn't he spoken to his daughter in so many years? All of these questions and more will be answered. As we know, Knox is in prison serving a 25 year prison sentence for murder. He's already served 14 of those years. He's been denied parole twice, but is up again before the review board soon and is trying to keep out of trouble so that he may have a chance at parole. Ryker (our hero from Doubt, book 4 in the series) is his attorney and continuously reminds him to keep his nose clean as he prepares for the upcoming parole hearing. Meanwhile, Knox overhears another inmate in the prison bragging that he's going to sexually assault the new prison nurse who was just hired (this inmate is bad news, he's been convicted of sexual crimes towards women but somehow earned himself a work detail spot in the infirmary so he had seen the new nurse when she came for her interview). Knox knows if he causes a fight with this inmate, he'll jeopardize his chance at parole, but he knows he can't just ignore the credible threats the inmate is making. He confronts the inmate, a fight ensues, and the inmate is hurt badly enough to lose his spot in the medical ward. Knox is also injured enough to need to see the prison doctor. Once he gets there, he meets Harper, the new prison nurse, who is starting her first day working at the prison.

Harper is running from an abusive ex and thought working in a prison might keep her under the radar and safe. Her ex was incredibly violent and she's wary of all men, particularly those incarcerated for violent offenses in the prison. But when she meets Knox on her first day, she finds that she's not afraid of him. Knox goes out of his way to make himself less intimidating despite his large size and intense tattoos. He talks to Harper and he can tell immediately from a bruise on her cheek that someone has hurt her. After their first meeting, Knox finds ways to warrant visits to the infirmary to see Harper. Eventually, he shifts his work detail to the infirmary as well so he can be there to keep her safe should other inmates try to hurt her. Their connection grows. It's an intense, emotional connection that builds slowly over time, from looks to quiet conversations to small hand touches, they are two broken souls, unwilling to trust others, who somehow, miraculously, starting to trust each other.

As the story progresses, we learn who Knox killed and why. I don't want to spoil the details, I'll just say he killed to protect someone he loved. He believed he was justified and that in doing so, he saved others from potential harm. He feels no remorse and has refused to offer any sort of apology at his parole hearing, despite Ryker's pleading that he do so. Knox has trouble trusting the justice system to do its job. He felt he had to take matters into his own hands that night and that if he hadn't killed, others would be in danger. Harper has her own issues with trust. She has trouble trusting the idea of relationships or love because her ex so thoroughly beat her down and destroyed her self esteem. Once Knox confesses his crime to Harper, part of her understands, but another part of her asks why he couldn't have made other choices that would still have resulted in punishment for the man who tried to hurt Knox's loved one. As Knox and Harper continue to steal moments together, they begin to fall in love. They have such an emotional connection with each other and it's so beautifully written. I feel like it's really a soulmate type of connection these two have. However, danger strikes when Harper's abusive ex ends up tracking her down and gets a job as a correctional officer at the prison. Knox vows to get justice for her no matter what it takes or what he has to do. Harper tries to convince him that is not the right way, that vengeance is just going to lead to more prison time for Knox and will destroy what they have built together. Harper tries to get through to Knox and hopes that their love will be enough to make him rethink his stance. Knox has to do some soul searching as he contemplates what justice truly means and if there might be another way after all.

This book explores so many emotional themes. Knox and Harper's love and devotion to each other is breathtaking. The struggle is their differing opinions on what warrants justice. For Knox, he lacked trust in the justice system to stop a predator and felt he had to do it himself for his loved ones and others to be safe. He had a choice. He could have stopped the criminal assailant and waited for the police. He chose to kill instead. And he paid for it with a 25 year prison sentence. He simply accepted the prison sentence. He accepted when his ex stopped bringing his daughter to see him and cut off all contact. He felt he did what he had to do and he'd pay the consequences. He also never felt remorse for his decision because he truly felt he was doing the right thing. He initially thinks he has to act in a similar way when Harper's abusive ex shows up at the prison as a prison guard. But Harper shows him another way. Through her love and her belief in him and the goodness in him, and hope for the life they may be able to build together outside the prison walls, she shows him that no matter what happens, if they trust each other, they can get through anything. Knox begins to realize that while he isn't remorseful that the predator he killed is dead, he is sorry for that person's family. And of course, the person Knox punished more was himself, as he lost his freedom, his ability to see his own family outside prison walls, and his daughter. The way this couple faces adversity and comes out the other side is just beautiful. Knox's reconnection with his daughter is another important part of his story and was so beautiful to read. I cried several times while reading this book. It's just truly beautiful. Kathy is, in my opinion, one of the best writers out there. Her prose is almost lyrical and I can get lost in her writing. Her stories make me feel like I'm there, like I'm living it with the characters, and that's magical. The suspense elements in this book were phenomenal and I found I couldn't stop reading to find out what happened next. Finally, we can't forget about the other guys in the Sinners and Saints group. The group chats continued to make me laugh out loud. And the found family elements continued in this book. Kathy writes found family so well and this book was no exception. In short, I cannot recommend this book, this entire series, enough. Thank you so much, Kathy, for an ARC of this book, it was truly my honor to read it.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazon



Knox has been just surviving in prison, his heart has been shut off, and he's known as the most dangerous inmate inside. Then he meets the newest nurse in the infirmary, and her obvious fear and the signs of abuse, get to him, raise his protective instincts. Now he's suddenly feeling again, and his heart has come alive. But when her ex shows up at the prison, it all comes to a head, and Knox and Harper are fighting for their lives and their love.



Like any smart woman, Harper takes one look at Knox, all his tattoos and muscles, and instantly thinks he's as dangerous as his reputation suggests. But when he starts coming to the infirmary, looking more and more hurt, just so he can spend time with her and protect her, she sees the beautiful person inside him. Now they're developing real feelings, and wondering how they can possibly make a relationship work between a prisoner and a prison nurse. But that's not their biggest obstacle, because when her horrible ex shows up at the prison as a guard, everything starts looking a whole lot worse.



I love this series, all of this found family falling in love, but Knox and Harper are my favorite couple, by far. I knew from the first time Knox was mentioned that his story was going to be a heartbreaker, and damn is it. His backstory, why he was in prison, and his current life as an inmate, got me right in the heart. I'm not even ashamed to admit I shed more than a few tears as Knox and his daughter healed and reunited, and Harper and Knox finally got out from under her ex's thumb. Then I cheered as they fell in love, and Knox's life went full circle and he was reunited with his found family and looked forward to spending the rest of his life with them, with Harper and his daughter by his side.



ARC provided by Valentine PR for an honest review.

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[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed the final book in the “Sinners and Saints” series. Kathy Lockheart has once again delivered a beautifully crafted, touching love story that had me hooked from the very beginning. The plot is fast-paced, action-packed, and full of emotion—heartbreaking moments that teared me up, funny scenes that made me laugh (especially the group chats and Axel), angst, drama, violence, suspense, danger, and steamy love scenes. The tropes are:

- Forbidden prison romance
- Workplace romance
- Prison Nurse-Inmate
- Forced/close proximity
- Who hurt you?
- Touch her and die
- Found family

Readers of the series are already familiar with Knox and parts of his backstory from the very beginning, and Harper was also introduced in the previous book as Faith’s new neighbor and friend. Now we learn more about their backgrounds. On the surface, Knox is tough and brutal—a convicted murderer—but deep down, he’s protective and caring. Harper is strong and independent: she faces her challenges despite her fear. Both characters grapple with their own inner conflicts, which also engage readers and demonstrate that the world isn’t just black and white: that a convicted murderer can be a good person at heart. That the need to protect someone from trauma and pain can inflict other deep wounds to the same people. The chemistry between Knox and Harper was off charts from the start, and their inner conflicts, their longing for one another, were palpable throughout; their protective instincts and their ability to see and protect each other despite their masks were heartwarming. The two have undergone significant character development over the course of the story and are a wonderful match. I also found Knox’s love for his daughter beautiful, and the way they found their way back to each other really moved me. I loved the “Bands of Brothers” dynamic—the mutual feelings, interactions, and banter—throughout the entire series, and I’m definitely going to miss them.
Although the book can be read as a standalone, I still recommend reading the series in order.

Knox has been in prison for 14 years for the murder of the man while protecting his little daughter, and he is one parole hearing away from freedom. That’s why he stays out of trouble, hides behind a carefully constructed apathy and works on his image. When he overhears another inmate bragging about raping the new prison nurse, Knox beats him so badly he ends up in the infirmary—and Knox ends up under her care. Day after day, he injures himself to protect her and be near her, and ultimately gets assigned as her orderly.
Harper has fled her abusive ex, Silas, and wants to start over in a new state and a new job as a prison nurse at Coldwater Penitentiary. On her very first day, she meets Knox, the most feared inmate at Coldwater, whom she finds both attractive and repulsive as a convicted murderer, yet surprisingly, she also feels safe around him. Knox, too, is taken with this strong woman, who has clearly endured much suffering and violence yet is starting over in one of the most hostile environments imaginable. The two grow closer, even though it is forbidden, but then Silas suddenly shows up—he has landed a job as a correctional officer at Coldwater. He is not only a danger to Harper, but also to Knox’s chance at freedom…

If you like dark romantic suspense novels with morally gray protagonists, heroines in trouble, bands of brothers, heartfelt emotion, action, danger, humor and heat, this book is for you.

Thank you Kathy Lockheart and Valentine Press for the ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

#SinnersandSaints #KathyLockheart #RomanticSuspense #KindleUnlimitedRomance #Valentineprlm @valentine_pr_

[🖤 alyssa 🩶 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trust was an absolutely phenomenal read that fully consumed me from start to finish 🧡 The writing, extremely interesting plot, drama, pacing, characters and their developments—*everything* pulled me in! Harper and Knox’s story is so devastatingly emotional, and had me crying like a baby at multiple points 🥲 The growing tension between them and changes they each go through kept me invested, and I really enjoyed seeing them work through their struggles separately and together. The character development and depth is so well written, and I also appreciated the pacing and how their relationship formed 🤍

Harper is beyond strong and brave, and I just wanted to give her a big hug 🧡 She deserved to have a fresh start, and meeting Knox causes her to go through some big changes and shifts in her mindset and how she thought things were. I thought all of it felt genuine, with her going back and forth in her head, but still always being curious and willing to keep an open mind 😌 She is professional, confident in her skills, and doesn’t diminsh her level of care for any reason, even when others in her position have. Seeing her eventually become comfortable around Knox was heartwarming 🥹 He helped her start to work through her past traumas, but she was also there for him and knew what he needed, and also when to give him a push when he needs it! Her care for Knox is so deep, and I loved how supportive of him she was 🤍 She had a good friendship with Faith (and Rainbow!!) that made me giggle too, and seeing Harper fit right in with the Sinners and Saints group was perfect 🥹

Knox is a giant protective, sexy, caring teddy bear that you will 1000% fall head over heels for 🧡 This man is complex and has been through a ton, has lots of hurt he carries with him, but Harper was able to crack those walls and see the real man within, which was tear jerking and heartwarming; Knox deserves so much understanding, care, and love, and he really needed it after everything 🥺 He’s protective of Harper and makes her feel safe around him, earning her trust bit by bit. It was so sweet how he would go out of his way to do little things in order to make her feel at ease or comfortable at work, and with him. Watching him open up to her, his thoughts and actions, his thoughts about and notes to Gwen… they were all raw, emotional, and vulnerable parts to his character that gave him so much depth 🤍 He also had Ryker, Axel, Blake, and Jace in his corner, all supportive and caring, and their group dynamic had me snorting and laughing out loud—I especially loved Axel!! 😂

This was a really great read that could not be pried from my hands even if you tried! I was so invested in Harper and Knox’s story, and loved every second of their story 🧡 It was real, raw, and emotional in the best way, and with Harper’s change in her mindsets, and Knox’s own growth, both of them have so much development and growth. I also adored Gwen, Faith, Ryker, and the rest of the Sinners and Saints family and how strongly they care for one another 🥹 I was not ready to say goodbye to Harper and Knox, but my gosh am I SO ready for Bryson!! 🤍

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25stasr-TRUST is the fifth instalment in Kathy Lockheart’s contemporary, adult SINNERS AND SAINTS erotic, romantic suspense series . This is inmate Knox Blackwood, and RN Harper Mitchell’s story line. TRUST can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion as Knox’s story has been building throughout. Harper was introduced in book four DOUBT.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.

SOME BACKGROUND: The SINNERS AND SAINTS is a tight-knit group formed b childhood and college friends, each with a specialty and darkness that is required to save and protect the people they love: Ryker, Blake, Axel, Jace and Knox.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Knox and Harper) TRUST follows the forbidden relationship between inmate Knox Blackwood, and RN Harper Mitchell. Fourteen years earlier, Knox Blackwood was convicted of murder, and has spent the ensuing time keeping to himself but refusing to tell anyone what happened and why. Fast forward to present day, Knox overhears one of the inmates preparing to attack the new infirmary nurse, and our hero ensures she remains untouched. Harper never expected to find love in prison but Knox Blackwood is a man who is determined to protect Harper at all costs but Harper’s past has followed her to her new job, and Knox is about to become the target of madness and vengeance.

The world building follows several pathways including the revelation of the truth about what happened fourteen years earlier; the missing years for family and friendships; the betrayal for one woman who is desperately seeking peace; and a young woman whose lost out of fourteen years of memories unaware of the reasons and why.

The relationship between Knox and Harper is a forbidden romance that escalates when Knox is granted parole. Harper struggles knowing Knox is a target of her past but Knox is determined to prove they are both worthy of love and second chances. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of charismatic and determined secondary and supporting characters including Knox’s friends who are diligently working to free their friend: Blake, Axel, Jace and their significant others. We are introduced to Knox’s cellmate Ronan; Knox’s daughter Gwen, as well as Dr. Mercer, Harper’s ex Silas Whitmore, and several security guards and inmates .

TRUST is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, protection and redemption, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is dramatic, gritty and heart breaking with some reflection and contemplation by our story line hero.; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are desperate, determined and animated.

copy supplied for review

[Lindsay Thibodaux · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOLY HOTNESS! Kathy Lockheart has done it again with Trust, and I honestly couldn’t put it down. Knox Blackwood finally gets his story, and let me tell you, it’s everything I was hoping for and more. After spending the last 11 years behind bars, Knox has become hardened and guarded, seemingly resigned to his fate. He’s lost so much—most heartbreakingly, his daughter—and now he’s stuck in prison with little hope of ever getting out. But beneath that tough exterior is a man with a lot of pain and secrets, waiting to be uncovered.
Harper is starting over, miles away from her family and her past. She’s the new nurse at the penitentiary, and from her very first day, she’s thrown into a world full of danger and surprises. The moment she crosses paths with Knox, sparks fly immediately—yet there’s so much more beneath the surface. Knox notices things others miss, and he’s drawn to her in a way that’s both protective and tender. Their chemistry is scorching, and Lockheart writes their interactions with such raw emotion and heat that you’ll be rooting for them from the first page.
What I loved most about Trust is how layered the story is. Knox isn’t just a stereotypical bad-boy inmate; he’s complex, flawed, and driven by a past that’s slowly revealed throughout the book. The tension isn’t just physical—it’s emotional and psychological, which makes every moment between Knox and Harper even more intense. Knox’s instincts and perceptions add an exciting layer of suspense, and I loved trying to figure out what was real and what was a lie. The stakes are high, and the plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end.
Lockheart’s writing is as captivating as ever, blending steamy romance with suspense and heartfelt emotion. The way she develops her characters makes you feel invested in their journey, and I found myself rooting for Knox and Harper to find happiness against all odds. This story explores themes of trust, redemption, and second chances—delivered with a fiery passion that will leave you breathless.
This book was absolutely phenomenal—I loved every second of it. If you enjoy stories with intense chemistry, strong characters, and a compelling plot that keeps you guessing, you need to read Trust. Kathy Lockheart has once again proven why she’s one of my favorite authors. Five stars without a doubt—I can’t wait for what she writes next!

[MandysBookish Mind · Rating 5 out of 5]

After hearing about Knox throughout the previous four books, I could not wait for his story, and Kathy absolutely delivered. I loved the other books, don’t get me wrong, but there was something about this one that hit differently. It felt deeper, more emotional, and somehow even more satisfying after waiting so long for him.

Harper begins the story being very critical of Knox, and honestly, it made complete sense. She doesn’t know the man behind the reputation. As readers, we already knew pieces of him from the earlier books, so we had seen his good side. But Harper only sees the convicted killer everyone talks about, and fear shapes how she views him at first.

Getting Knox’s point of view was one of the best parts of the book. You see this tough, intimidating man completely unravel over a woman. He worries about her constantly, wondering if she’s okay, what she’s doing, and whether she needs him. It adds so much depth to his character. He isn’t just hard and dangerous, he feels deeply and loves hard. There are several moments where he doesn’t hold back his thoughts or feelings, and I was fully here for every one of them.

Watching Harper slowly realize she may have judged him wrong was so satisfying. She doesn’t stay stuck in her first impression. Instead, she allows his actions and words to change her opinion over time, which made that growth feel real. At the same time, Harper is carrying struggles of her own that she isn’t sharing with anyone, yet Knox knows something is wrong. That awareness between them adds another emotional layer to their connection.

This book also gives you everything you want from the series. All the Sinners and Saints guys are here, along with their women, hilarious group texts between the men, and moments that swing from laugh-out-loud funny to incredibly emotional.  Some things happened exactly the way I hoped they would, while other moments completely blindsided me. And the tears... I’ve gotten emotional while reading before, but this book had me ugly crying in a way no book ever has.  I received this book as an ARC and am leaving this honest review voluntarily. 

One touch.  That's all it took to wreck fourteen years of carefully constructed apathy.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trust by Kathy Lockheart delivers a powerful and satisfying conclusion to the Sinners and Saints, ending the series on a high with Knox’s long-awaited story. As the group’s imprisoned member, serving twenty-five years for murder, Knox has been a constant presence in the background of the series with his friends never giving up hope of gaining his freedom. Here, just as parole finally seems within reach, the stakes feel higher than ever, especially when he’s prepared to risk everything to protect Harper, the new prison nurse who’s hiding clear signs of abuse.

Harper is, above all, a survivor. She has been shaped by a past marked by neglect and violence, enduring alcoholic parents, and an abusive ex, and as a result, she’s guarded to the point of isolation. She’s done trusting people after hearing every promise before only to be let down and refuses to let anyone close enough to hurt her again, especially not a tattooed, dangerous inmate. At first, that’s exactly how she sees Knox – as a violent criminal, and everything she hears about his reputation only reinforces that view. But as she witnesses how far he’s willing to go to keep her safe, even at great personal risk to himself, her opinion begins to shift. Knox notices the tiny details others have missed, her flinches, her reactions to sudden noise, her fear. At his core, he is a protector, and he takes it upon himself to ensure her safety leading to a slow burn, forbidden romance with a close-proximity dynamic, set against a backdrop of danger and uncertainty. But just as freedom and the possibility of future with Harper comes within his reach, a new threat emerges when her abuser arrives at the prison, not as an inmate, but as someone in a position of authority and this twist brings with it an added edge of suspense that adds to the building tension. Balancing out the drama are well-placed moments of humour, especially the banter-filled group chats between Knox’s close knit friend group, who are more like his brothers than anything else and who have been there for him through good times and bad. Their presence reinforces the heart of the series – that of found family and unwavering loyalty, helping to make Trust a strong finale to what has been an outstanding series.

[Espook✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc review✨✨✨✨

What an absolutely amazing read!
I’ll admit this was my first book in the series since I had no idea it was part of one, but now I have the opportunity to go back and read about the other characters knowing they all get their happily ever afters, and I couldn’t be more excited!

Since this was my first time reading a nurse and inmate trope, I had no idea I would fall this hard for Knox and Harper. I just can’t get over them it was such a quick read and I genuinely didn’t want it to end.

Knox, oh baby Knox 🥺 The depth of his character is simply fascinating. It was a complete rollercoaster of emotions reading about everything he’s been through the way he thinks, analyzes, and just exists was truly remarkable.

And Harper having such a traumatic past yet being this strong, fighting for her life the way she did? Genuinely inspiring.

At first, I found myself thinking like Knox struggling to understand how someone could face such a horrific situation and treat it as if it were normal. Part of me knew it was wrong, but I also couldn’t deny that there’s no way I’d think straight if I were in the same position.

Then I found myself thinking like Harper “you’re either a good person or a monster, there’s nothing in between, it’s black or white.” I couldn’t pick a side.

But after finishing the book and experiencing both of their POVs, I came to my own conclusion: I would do anything for my family and the people I love but I’d also stop and think about the sacrifices, the consequences, and what the wrong choice could cost me.

This book carries such a powerful message, and Kathy delivered it in the most beautiful way possible. It wasn’t just a great romance it had something real and meaningful to say, and I truly hope every reader gets to see that

Incredible romance ✔️ fantastic spice ✔️ wonderful banter ✔️ and SO much more packed into one book. (The group chat scenes had me absolutely losing it 😭😂)


Tropes:
✔️ Forbidden nurse/inmate romance
✔️ Obsessive, possessive morally gray hero
✔️ “Touch Her and Die” energy
✔️ “Who Hurt You?” protector vibes
✔️ Forced proximity in a prison setting