What do you think?
Rate this book
Fierce Protectors #5
Trusting Jake
Jake Kincaid is haunted by the memories of his mother’s violent death and his inability, as a young boy, to save her.
Destiny Pierce is facing a final showdown with her violent husband that could cost the ultimate price—her life.
With her estranged husband hell-bent on torture, Destiny battles fear and distrust to enlist Jake’s help in preparing her to go fist to fist with the monster she married, to save her own life. Tortured by the one woman Jake was powerless to save, he agrees to the impossible. He’ll teach Destiny to fight, and he’ll honor her wishes to not interfere despite everything screaming inside him to do just that.
With every passing hour witnessing Destiny’s strength and determination, the fractured puzzle pieces of their lives intertwine, creating a bond to stand the test of time. Their very future hangs in the balance, leaving him to hope and pray that although he can’t save her, he’s trained her well enough to save herself.
Destiny Pierce is facing a final showdown with her violent husband that could cost the ultimate price—her life.
With her estranged husband hell-bent on torture, Destiny battles fear and distrust to enlist Jake’s help in preparing her to go fist to fist with the monster she married, to save her own life. Tortured by the one woman Jake was powerless to save, he agrees to the impossible. He’ll teach Destiny to fight, and he’ll honor her wishes to not interfere despite everything screaming inside him to do just that.
With every passing hour witnessing Destiny’s strength and determination, the fractured puzzle pieces of their lives intertwine, creating a bond to stand the test of time. Their very future hangs in the balance, leaving him to hope and pray that although he can’t save her, he’s trained her well enough to save herself.
- GenresM F Romance
120 pages, ebook
First published November 13, 2018
185 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
Casey Hagen
65 books2,120 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Casey Hagen pens her stories from the salty air of Kennebunk, Maine. She's the author of over 30 books that would make your mama raise her eyebrows if she caught you reading them!
All things Casey here: geni.us/StalkCasey
FULL LIST OF BOOKS:
Fierce Protectors:
Tallulah Cove:
All things Casey here: geni.us/StalkCasey
FULL LIST OF BOOKS:
Fierce Protectors:
Tallulah Cove:
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Read
June 23, 2020Trusting Jake
Fierce Protectors
5/8
Completed series
Purchase Link: geni.us/Fierce5
Fierce Protectors
5/8
Completed series
Purchase Link: geni.us/Fierce5
November 9, 2018
This story is not for the faint of heart, but if like me, you have come to love this series, this one will definitely touch your soul.
The story centers around Jake Kincaid and Destiny Pierce. Jake is a new member of Fierce , and still feels like the outsider since though he was in the Navy, contrary to the other guys, he wasn’t a SEAL and thus not a member of their team. His childhood is one that also keeps him to himself and propels him to help women become strong when confronted with danger.
Destiny is fleeing her abusive husband and is determined to learn how to fight back the monster that has destroyed her life and self worth. When she hears about a self defense class being held in a gym, she approaches Jake for help.
But the story is more than that. It’s a story about the reality of domestic abuse. A reality that doesn’t distinguish social class. As a society, we need to assist more those in need .
The book reminds us as well that life is not all white and black, but different shades of gray.
Once again, this talented author managed to do something few author can do. She created an engaging story with very complex characters within the constraints of a novella. Can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
The story centers around Jake Kincaid and Destiny Pierce. Jake is a new member of Fierce , and still feels like the outsider since though he was in the Navy, contrary to the other guys, he wasn’t a SEAL and thus not a member of their team. His childhood is one that also keeps him to himself and propels him to help women become strong when confronted with danger.
Destiny is fleeing her abusive husband and is determined to learn how to fight back the monster that has destroyed her life and self worth. When she hears about a self defense class being held in a gym, she approaches Jake for help.
But the story is more than that. It’s a story about the reality of domestic abuse. A reality that doesn’t distinguish social class. As a society, we need to assist more those in need .
The book reminds us as well that life is not all white and black, but different shades of gray.
Once again, this talented author managed to do something few author can do. She created an engaging story with very complex characters within the constraints of a novella. Can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
November 13, 2018
This was a difficult subject matter to write about, but Ms. Hagen did so with gut, courage and style. Although Destiny Pierce married Carter, the man of her dreams, he quickly turned in to a monster. She has reported him before, only to be told that she should be a better wife. She has escaped for now, but she knows that Carter will find her and when he does, she has to be ready to fight back. She turns to Jake Kincaid, a member of Fierce Protectors, for help. He tells her that he will prepare her to get her life back, but that he and his team will be there to make sure she survives. Jake’s past history makes him the perfect man to train Destiny in the skills she will need. This was a heart racing read from beginning to end! Although a fiction novel, the fact that this abusive behavior still happens today (both to men and women) is extremely sad. I loved the courage that Destiny displayed to know that SHE had to have the strength to overcome the abuse and that HER life mattered. A wonderful fifth book in the series! I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to give an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
March 10, 2019
I recieved this ARC for an honest review.
Jake had a dream to become a Seal. But when an injury sidelines him and he's given an invitation to join Fierce Investigation
There he is trying to find his place among former Seals and special forces.
But the one thing he wants to happen is that he wants to instigate a defence programme. After he feels he failed his mother who died as a result of domestic abuse.
He want women to learn how to protect and defend themselves.
Destiny Pierce is on the run and hiding from her abuser her husband a Navy officer.
Overhearing a conversation about a self defence class being taught by Jake, she goes to the class watching from the side.
After the class a chance conversation with Jake leads him to help her on the quiet.
Jake sees the same terror and fear in Destiny's eyes that he has seen before and helps her train. But when trouble comes will she be able to escape alive.
This was a great emotional book.
You felt both Jake and Destiny's pain.
Loved it a must read.
Jake had a dream to become a Seal. But when an injury sidelines him and he's given an invitation to join Fierce Investigation
There he is trying to find his place among former Seals and special forces.
But the one thing he wants to happen is that he wants to instigate a defence programme. After he feels he failed his mother who died as a result of domestic abuse.
He want women to learn how to protect and defend themselves.
Destiny Pierce is on the run and hiding from her abuser her husband a Navy officer.
Overhearing a conversation about a self defence class being taught by Jake, she goes to the class watching from the side.
After the class a chance conversation with Jake leads him to help her on the quiet.
Jake sees the same terror and fear in Destiny's eyes that he has seen before and helps her train. But when trouble comes will she be able to escape alive.
This was a great emotional book.
You felt both Jake and Destiny's pain.
Loved it a must read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2019
This book deals with hard topics and one should be prepared for it. This being said, I still enjoyed the story. Destiny had married in good faith and it definitely wasn't returned. Her husband took pleasure in torturing her. When Destiny went to her husband's commanding officer for help, he sided with her husband and the result was a beating. When she got pregnant and it wasn't a boy, Carter beat her until she lost her child. Destiny is finally pushed far enough to ask for help. First by a childhood friend who is a lawyer and then Jake for training so she can face and stand up to her husband. Despite not wanting to trust a man, she trusts Jake. Jake risks his new position at Fierce Protectors and his dream to help her. But Dylan and the others at Fierce Protectors stand up behind Jake. Destiny learns but doesn't expect to survive the confrontation with Carter. When she finds out Carter is on the way, Destiny picks the showdown location. Destiny wins in a satisfying manner. Afterwards both Destiny and Jake heal from their pasts together.
November 10, 2018
I’ve come to love this series so much.
The characters always seem to touch my heart in one way or another
Jake and Destiny were meant to be, the fit together perfectly. He showed her his trust and love when she needed it most.
Destiny was an abused wife who decided to fight back, her strength and vulnerability made me love her immediately connecting with her.
Jake saw Destiny and instinctively knew what she’d been through and connected immediately with her, he knew the signs and felt guilt from childhood that kept him wanting to help others
His team were their usual supportive collaboration all coming together as a family
The violence at the end between Destiny and her husband may be upsetting to read for some, but it fit the storyline bringing a final showdown yet it is someone’s reality and I found it empowering to read and perfect for the storyline
Well done Casey Hagen
Loved this book
The characters always seem to touch my heart in one way or another
Jake and Destiny were meant to be, the fit together perfectly. He showed her his trust and love when she needed it most.
Destiny was an abused wife who decided to fight back, her strength and vulnerability made me love her immediately connecting with her.
Jake saw Destiny and instinctively knew what she’d been through and connected immediately with her, he knew the signs and felt guilt from childhood that kept him wanting to help others
His team were their usual supportive collaboration all coming together as a family
The violence at the end between Destiny and her husband may be upsetting to read for some, but it fit the storyline bringing a final showdown yet it is someone’s reality and I found it empowering to read and perfect for the storyline
Well done Casey Hagen
Loved this book
November 16, 2018
***This is a highly emotional read. It is full of triggers so please be warned.***
Destiny has been living in a nightmare. Her husband is a respected Navy officer but that is by the daylight. When alone with his wife he is a monster. Destiny has left him and decides to train to fight for her life back. She approaches Jake for help training. Jake can’t say no. She reminds him to much of his mother, except stronger. He wants to help her get physically stronger and win her life back. Jake’s gentle and respectful nature does not just make Destiny physically and mentally stronger, it makes her fall in love. Can Destiny win the fight for her life, a life she wants to live with Jake? Can Jake let go of his childhood and help Destiny live the life she deserves. One click to find out. If you can handle the awful man that is her husband and the things that he does to her, this is a fantastic read.
Destiny has been living in a nightmare. Her husband is a respected Navy officer but that is by the daylight. When alone with his wife he is a monster. Destiny has left him and decides to train to fight for her life back. She approaches Jake for help training. Jake can’t say no. She reminds him to much of his mother, except stronger. He wants to help her get physically stronger and win her life back. Jake’s gentle and respectful nature does not just make Destiny physically and mentally stronger, it makes her fall in love. Can Destiny win the fight for her life, a life she wants to live with Jake? Can Jake let go of his childhood and help Destiny live the life she deserves. One click to find out. If you can handle the awful man that is her husband and the things that he does to her, this is a fantastic read.
November 14, 2018
Ms. Hagen managed to write an excellent book on a difficult subject - domestic violence. Jake watched his father beat his mom time & again. Now he is trying to help women in similar situations.
Destiny is tired of being stalked & abused. She wants to be free. She hopes that Jake is the one that can teach her how to stay calm, fight back & win. Can she survive another encounter?
This is an emotional book about a very difficult subject. Ms. Hagen used the perfect touch in keeping the subject from going too dark while keeping the importance of it front & center. By adding the chemistry between Destiny & Jake, she gives the reader the realization that there is a way out & life afterwards. Ms. Hagen has a very descriptive writing style & uses subjects that make the reader think.
Destiny is tired of being stalked & abused. She wants to be free. She hopes that Jake is the one that can teach her how to stay calm, fight back & win. Can she survive another encounter?
This is an emotional book about a very difficult subject. Ms. Hagen used the perfect touch in keeping the subject from going too dark while keeping the importance of it front & center. By adding the chemistry between Destiny & Jake, she gives the reader the realization that there is a way out & life afterwards. Ms. Hagen has a very descriptive writing style & uses subjects that make the reader think.
November 19, 2018
Trusting Jake by Casey Hagen was a well written book. A story with suspense, action packed and definitely a touch of romance. The characters Jake is the newest member of the Fierce Protectors and is passionate about a new program he wants to start at the Fierce gym and Destiny is a woman who has had enough of her abusive husband and wants to learn how to fight back. These two characters are intriguing, strong, fierce and full of heart. This is definitely a book that will grab hold of you from the very start and will keep you hooked till the last word. A bite your nails on the edge of your seat kind of book. I absolutely loved this great book and highly recommend it. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
December 7, 2018
Must read and fall in love with Jake and Destiny.
Warning trigger for domestic violence and abuse in this book. Jake had lived through his mother's death due to abuse, but when he started teaching self defense classes he wanted to make sure that women could fight back and get away.when Destiny shows up asking for him to train her against her abusive husband she didnt expect to find her knight and shining amour but will her husband kill her this time?
This book was so good and hard to put down and has such a story to tell and its happening way to much and let's women know there is always a way to get away and to teach them to fight back and take back their lives. Absolutely love this book and ending.
Warning trigger for domestic violence and abuse in this book. Jake had lived through his mother's death due to abuse, but when he started teaching self defense classes he wanted to make sure that women could fight back and get away.when Destiny shows up asking for him to train her against her abusive husband she didnt expect to find her knight and shining amour but will her husband kill her this time?
This book was so good and hard to put down and has such a story to tell and its happening way to much and let's women know there is always a way to get away and to teach them to fight back and take back their lives. Absolutely love this book and ending.
November 11, 2018
This was a hold your breath, bite your nails story. It was a hard story to read. If spousal abuse is a trigger for you this isn't a book for you. Jake is the new kid to Fierce Protection agency. He has personal reasons for wanting the agency to build a self-defense, safe house with all the help any abused women or man would need to help them escape their abuser. Destiney seeks Jake to train her to give back to her abusive husband everything he has put her through for the time they have been married. I don't want to give away any spoilers but this has a violent ending before it has a happy ending. Totally worth the read.
November 16, 2018
Definitely not for the faint of heart. Take my warning: this book contains scenes and subject matter that are very difficult to read. I loved coming back to the Fierce family and getting to see what the author has in store for us this time. Destiny has survived a life no one should ever have to endure. She’s turned to Jake to prepare her for what could be the most important encounter of her life. Destiny’s troubles bring the worst parts of Jake’s past to the surface. Will these two broken souls be the undoing of each other or can they heal one another’s breaks?
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.
July 17, 2019
Yes, yes, yes !!!!!!!!!
Without giving away a terrific book...
Sometimes the only way to win is to take back what was stolen from us...Ms Hagan you did an amazing job with Destiny's story, as well as Jake's. But Destiny, wow,so many of us have been there, maybe not to that level, but all it takes is once, by the sea and or third time you are trying to "do better."
A well written novel about an awesome group, by the way, YEAH FOR JAKE'S STORY, but also a subject to often where a situation means there is not help available...
Now, to answer questions to my alluding, THIS IS A MUST READ!
Absolutely loved every moment!
Karen
Without giving away a terrific book...
Sometimes the only way to win is to take back what was stolen from us...Ms Hagan you did an amazing job with Destiny's story, as well as Jake's. But Destiny, wow,so many of us have been there, maybe not to that level, but all it takes is once, by the sea and or third time you are trying to "do better."
A well written novel about an awesome group, by the way, YEAH FOR JAKE'S STORY, but also a subject to often where a situation means there is not help available...
Now, to answer questions to my alluding, THIS IS A MUST READ!
Absolutely loved every moment!
Karen
November 13, 2018
This book revolves around spousal abuse, so it may be a trigger for some.
Destiny needs to make sure that her abusive husband never lays is hands on her ever again. In order to accomplish that, she needs to learn to defend herself. Jake is the perfect guy to train her and agrees to help her. Destiny has a limited amount of time to get herself ready for what she believes is the fight of her life.
This book brings you on an emotional ride filled with highs and lows and you'll find yourself cheering for the underdog. Great book and beautifully written.
Destiny needs to make sure that her abusive husband never lays is hands on her ever again. In order to accomplish that, she needs to learn to defend herself. Jake is the perfect guy to train her and agrees to help her. Destiny has a limited amount of time to get herself ready for what she believes is the fight of her life.
This book brings you on an emotional ride filled with highs and lows and you'll find yourself cheering for the underdog. Great book and beautifully written.
November 15, 2018
This story deals with an all too real issue. Abuse happens every day. Destiny has decided to fight back and enlist the help of Jake and his team. While Jake is dealing with his own issues from the past, he is determined to help Destiny stay safe. The dynamics between the two characters is exactly what the other needs. I loved this story and need to go back and read the other books in the series that I have missed.
*I received an Advance Readers Copy of this book via Hidden Gems which I am voluntarily reviewing*
*I received an Advance Readers Copy of this book via Hidden Gems which I am voluntarily reviewing*
May 30, 2019
Fierce expands
The men of Fierce are expanding their operation. While this is a stand alone reading the preceding books (starting with Shielding Nebraska) is best. Jake s joining Fierce and this is very personal for him. Destiny has reached her limit and needs Jake to train her for the fight of her life. I did wonder if her interactions with Jake were consistent with a battered spouse (if this a trigger for you this book is likely not for you) but despite the heavy content I enjoyed the story.
The men of Fierce are expanding their operation. While this is a stand alone reading the preceding books (starting with Shielding Nebraska) is best. Jake s joining Fierce and this is very personal for him. Destiny has reached her limit and needs Jake to train her for the fight of her life. I did wonder if her interactions with Jake were consistent with a battered spouse (if this a trigger for you this book is likely not for you) but despite the heavy content I enjoyed the story.
June 2, 2019
The New Guy
Fierce has hired a new guy, Jake, who is former navy and in his spare time teaches a self defense class for women, often victims of domestic violence. Jake has guilt over not being able to save his mother from his abusive father. Destiny is on the run from her abusive husband and asks Jake to train her to fight him. While training Destiny sees how gentle and caring Jake is and how things should be with a man. Jake wants to take care of Destiny’s husband knows she has to do it herself.
Fierce has hired a new guy, Jake, who is former navy and in his spare time teaches a self defense class for women, often victims of domestic violence. Jake has guilt over not being able to save his mother from his abusive father. Destiny is on the run from her abusive husband and asks Jake to train her to fight him. While training Destiny sees how gentle and caring Jake is and how things should be with a man. Jake wants to take care of Destiny’s husband knows she has to do it herself.
November 15, 2018
This was a heartbreaking story. It may cause triggers for some. Jake is still after several years later having nightmares and guilt for not being able to help his mother. He gets a chance to help Destiny get stronger and increase her fighting skills. There are one steamy scenes. But the essence of this book is how a battered woman can protect herself against the system that didn't work and her abusive Navy husband.HEA.
November 15, 2018
Jake is the new guy at Fierce Protection Agency and he wants to build a place for training abuse victims in self defense and giving them a safe place to stay. Destiny wants Jake to train her so she can protect herself from her abusive husband. Can she break away from her husband on her own or will Jake be there when she needs him. This is an emotional read with amazing characters and a wonderful story. I really liked it.
November 18, 2018
AN INTENSE DRAMA OF FEAR AND BRUTALITY
A woman contacts Jake of Fierce Protectors to help train her to fight and protect herself. Her estranged husband is coming for her and she needs to take a stand against him. She has suffered years of abuse, brutality and injuries during their marriage. He is a vicious and violent person who also happens to be a prosecutor for the Navy and subsequently his superiors never believed her stories.
A woman contacts Jake of Fierce Protectors to help train her to fight and protect herself. Her estranged husband is coming for her and she needs to take a stand against him. She has suffered years of abuse, brutality and injuries during their marriage. He is a vicious and violent person who also happens to be a prosecutor for the Navy and subsequently his superiors never believed her stories.
January 17, 2021
Destiny & Jake
Wow! This is a very good story of how Destiny chose to deal with her abusive husband herself after the authorities did not support her & left her with no other options. The way she chose to deal with her abusive husband is different & unconventional. It maybe difficult for understand & accept how she dealt with it & was able to start to heal herself. I really appreciated Destiny's journey & enjoyed the story!
Wow! This is a very good story of how Destiny chose to deal with her abusive husband herself after the authorities did not support her & left her with no other options. The way she chose to deal with her abusive husband is different & unconventional. It maybe difficult for understand & accept how she dealt with it & was able to start to heal herself. I really appreciated Destiny's journey & enjoyed the story!
November 18, 2018
The fifth book in the Special Forces: Operation Alpha, Fierce Protectors series. Jake Kincaid and Destiny Pierce's story kept me on the edge of my seat I had to know how it would turn out. A well-written story that I enjoyed reading. I received a copy from Hidden Gems and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
January 27, 2019
I just love that I can read books. One of the best reads yet. Thank you I look forward to seeing what you are writing next can' t wait for them I love when I can read book after book I don
I just love that I can read book after book with out having to wait. I also love the fact that other authors are writing with each other
I just love that I can read book after book with out having to wait. I also love the fact that other authors are writing with each other
February 4, 2019
Entertaining
This was my first Casey Hagen book,but it won't be my last one. I enjoyed this story very much.love a strong kick ass woman and Destiny didn't disappoint me. Jake was everything a woman would want in a man. Can't wait to read the rest in this series.Thank th Judy Kentrus for suggesting we give Casey Hagen a chance.
This was my first Casey Hagen book,but it won't be my last one. I enjoyed this story very much.love a strong kick ass woman and Destiny didn't disappoint me. Jake was everything a woman would want in a man. Can't wait to read the rest in this series.Thank th Judy Kentrus for suggesting we give Casey Hagen a chance.
July 6, 2019
Life of death
Destiny is on the run for her life. She knows there's only so much time left. Jake is teaching self defense classes he never wants a woman to be in a vulnerable position again. When Destiny gross him everything and asks him to teach her to fight. His only answer is yes but along the way he fell in love. Can she win the battle?
Destiny is on the run for her life. She knows there's only so much time left. Jake is teaching self defense classes he never wants a woman to be in a vulnerable position again. When Destiny gross him everything and asks him to teach her to fight. His only answer is yes but along the way he fell in love. Can she win the battle?
November 11, 2018
wow this book was intense! you rocked another book in this series! she has had enough of abuse. so she asks a guy who does self defense. to help her fight with her fists. she wont be this scared person no more. you have to read this book!
November 18, 2018
Loved this story...tho it got emotional for me at times. Wow. These are hard subjects to read or write about but thought the author did a wonderful job. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review for a copy of the book.
December 29, 2018
Three stars for me due to horrible somewhat graphic abuse descriptions. If not for that, it would have been 4 stars. The characters are engaging and the story is good, but, wow, the abuse is not for the emotionally sensitive.
July 25, 2019
Great story. Suspense, love, camaraderie. Page turner.
This story is well told. Good timing, writing and HEA. Accurate telling of the abuse cycle and how devastating it can be. Well worth the read.
This story is well told. Good timing, writing and HEA. Accurate telling of the abuse cycle and how devastating it can be. Well worth the read.
March 11, 2020
Trusting Jake
Trusting Jake is a good story about rebuilding and fighting for yourself. I enjoyed the characters and storyline. I always enjoy when an author brings all her characters together in each book. Happy Reading!!
Trusting Jake is a good story about rebuilding and fighting for yourself. I enjoyed the characters and storyline. I always enjoy when an author brings all her characters together in each book. Happy Reading!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews