What do you think?
Rancho Del Cielo #5
Trust In Me
Sometimes falling in love is the easy part…
Locke Jackman is single, childless…and he has a bad case of empty nest syndrome. For years, as he fought tooth and nail to keep his brothers and sisters together after his parents died, his entire life was focused on his responsibilities.
Now his siblings have all moved on with their lives, and there’s no one around to distract him from his overpowering attraction to his sister’s best friend. Their mutual desire is stunning…but then again, so are the secrets keeping them apart.
Susie Packard’s nightmarish marriage taught her what happens when she gives in to her weakness for powerful men. Too bad the big, stoic frowner across the street—the one who sets her bells jangling just by breathing—has her in his sights.
Try as she might to keep her emotional distance, Locke is determinedly knocking down all her walls. But as much as she wants to be the woman he needs, she knows better than most—passion may have its rewards, but every secret has its price.
This book contains a hot, modern-day Viking seducing his way to the heart of his woman, a stubborn lingerie designer with a world of secrets and a very deep bathtub… Enjoy!
Locke Jackman is single, childless…and he has a bad case of empty nest syndrome. For years, as he fought tooth and nail to keep his brothers and sisters together after his parents died, his entire life was focused on his responsibilities.
Now his siblings have all moved on with their lives, and there’s no one around to distract him from his overpowering attraction to his sister’s best friend. Their mutual desire is stunning…but then again, so are the secrets keeping them apart.
Susie Packard’s nightmarish marriage taught her what happens when she gives in to her weakness for powerful men. Too bad the big, stoic frowner across the street—the one who sets her bells jangling just by breathing—has her in his sights.
Try as she might to keep her emotional distance, Locke is determinedly knocking down all her walls. But as much as she wants to be the woman he needs, she knows better than most—passion may have its rewards, but every secret has its price.
This book contains a hot, modern-day Viking seducing his way to the heart of his woman, a stubborn lingerie designer with a world of secrets and a very deep bathtub… Enjoy!
187 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 23, 2013
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 25, 2013
Ah Locke, so big, so patient, so strong, so strangly innocent in a way, so... I am running out of words. Loved reading this story. Full review to come!
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/07/24/...
Publisher: Samhain
Publish Date: Out now
How I got this book: ARC from the author, blog tour from Novel Sidekick
Sometimes falling in love is the easy part…
A Rancho del Cielo Romance.
Locke Jackman is single, childless…and he has a bad case of empty nest syndrome. For years, as he fought tooth and nail to keep his brothers and sisters together after his parents died, his entire life was focused on his responsibilities.
Now his siblings have all moved on with their lives, and there’s no one around to distract him from his overpowering attraction to his sister’s best friend. Their mutual desire is stunning…but then again, so are the secrets keeping them apart.
Susie Packard’s nightmarish marriage taught her what happens when she gives in to her weakness for powerful men. Too bad the big, stoic frowner across the street—the one who sets her bells jangling just by breathing—has her in his sights.
Try as she might to keep her emotional distance, Locke is determinedly knocking down all her walls. But as much as she wants to be the woman he needs, she knows better than most— passion may have its rewards, but every secret has its price.
Warning: This book contains a hot, modern-day Viking seducing his way to the heart of his woman, a stubborn lingerie designer with a world of secrets and a very deep bathtub… Enjoy!
This blurb came from the author’s website.
My introduction to Locke came in The Virgin’s Revenge which I reviewed and enjoyed. I fell for him during that book because I have a huge soft spot for the big brother who sacrifices his dreams to care for his family. He chose to grow up much faster and to deal with a large amount of responsibility at a relatively young age. Because of that choice, I couldn’t wait for his turn. When I found out that Tenorio was working on his story I did a little happy dance and periodically encouraged her along in the writing process. I am sure you can imagine how happy I was when we received the review and tour request. I am glad to say that Locke was well worth the wait.
Poor guy, he had a long distance crush on Susie ever since she arrived in town but because she was friends with his younger sister, Amanda, **melt** he resisted. But when his younger siblings all left the house Locke was left without any distractions so he gave in and started trying to get to know Susie a bit better. However, since he put his life on hold for so long his dating and relationship skills needed a lot of work. His missteps were the source of much amusement on my part and frustration to his siblings and Susie. Locke had to learn that he could not deal with Susie the same way he dealt with his siblings if he ever wanted to have a relationship with her. As the story progressed I increasingly liked him because he really did mean well, he was just like a blundering bear. Watching him grow and learn was a treat.
Susie was also an intriguing character. She escaped from a horrific life and was determined to never lose herself again. In her mind, this meant avoiding large bossy powerful men but she never expected Locke’s quiet determination. I thought it was hilarious when she would stand up to him and to see both his shock and her internal glee. As Amanda’s best friend, Susie was already familiar with the Jackson family but watching the dynamics of their interaction change as her relationship with Locke changed was a great example of how Tenorio paid attention to the extended connections throughout the book. She also made some crucial choices when she decided she was going to fight for what she wanted. Like Locke, Susie made her fair share of mistakes in her dealings with him, but she also learned from her errors.
Tenorio provided a very entertaining and touching story with Locke and Susie. Both had to deal with their past and how it altered their emotional maturity. They had to learn to trust each other and that a disagreement or argument did not mean the end of the world. The Jackson siblings also did their best to assist the progress of the growing relationship with mixed results, again a source of amusement for me. The last thing I really enjoyed is how Tenorio increased the suspense and tension towards the end just when I thought events were calming down and provided a very satisfying ending. She took two of my favorite tropes, the responsible big brother and sister’s best friend, and created a great combination.
I give Trust in Me an A-
**BP Note: Do not forget to look at our earlier post today for some great insight into both Susie and Locke**
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/07/24/...
Publisher: Samhain
Publish Date: Out now
How I got this book: ARC from the author, blog tour from Novel Sidekick
Sometimes falling in love is the easy part…
A Rancho del Cielo Romance.
Locke Jackman is single, childless…and he has a bad case of empty nest syndrome. For years, as he fought tooth and nail to keep his brothers and sisters together after his parents died, his entire life was focused on his responsibilities.
Now his siblings have all moved on with their lives, and there’s no one around to distract him from his overpowering attraction to his sister’s best friend. Their mutual desire is stunning…but then again, so are the secrets keeping them apart.
Susie Packard’s nightmarish marriage taught her what happens when she gives in to her weakness for powerful men. Too bad the big, stoic frowner across the street—the one who sets her bells jangling just by breathing—has her in his sights.
Try as she might to keep her emotional distance, Locke is determinedly knocking down all her walls. But as much as she wants to be the woman he needs, she knows better than most— passion may have its rewards, but every secret has its price.
Warning: This book contains a hot, modern-day Viking seducing his way to the heart of his woman, a stubborn lingerie designer with a world of secrets and a very deep bathtub… Enjoy!
This blurb came from the author’s website.
My introduction to Locke came in The Virgin’s Revenge which I reviewed and enjoyed. I fell for him during that book because I have a huge soft spot for the big brother who sacrifices his dreams to care for his family. He chose to grow up much faster and to deal with a large amount of responsibility at a relatively young age. Because of that choice, I couldn’t wait for his turn. When I found out that Tenorio was working on his story I did a little happy dance and periodically encouraged her along in the writing process. I am sure you can imagine how happy I was when we received the review and tour request. I am glad to say that Locke was well worth the wait.
Poor guy, he had a long distance crush on Susie ever since she arrived in town but because she was friends with his younger sister, Amanda, **melt** he resisted. But when his younger siblings all left the house Locke was left without any distractions so he gave in and started trying to get to know Susie a bit better. However, since he put his life on hold for so long his dating and relationship skills needed a lot of work. His missteps were the source of much amusement on my part and frustration to his siblings and Susie. Locke had to learn that he could not deal with Susie the same way he dealt with his siblings if he ever wanted to have a relationship with her. As the story progressed I increasingly liked him because he really did mean well, he was just like a blundering bear. Watching him grow and learn was a treat.
Susie was also an intriguing character. She escaped from a horrific life and was determined to never lose herself again. In her mind, this meant avoiding large bossy powerful men but she never expected Locke’s quiet determination. I thought it was hilarious when she would stand up to him and to see both his shock and her internal glee. As Amanda’s best friend, Susie was already familiar with the Jackson family but watching the dynamics of their interaction change as her relationship with Locke changed was a great example of how Tenorio paid attention to the extended connections throughout the book. She also made some crucial choices when she decided she was going to fight for what she wanted. Like Locke, Susie made her fair share of mistakes in her dealings with him, but she also learned from her errors.
Tenorio provided a very entertaining and touching story with Locke and Susie. Both had to deal with their past and how it altered their emotional maturity. They had to learn to trust each other and that a disagreement or argument did not mean the end of the world. The Jackson siblings also did their best to assist the progress of the growing relationship with mixed results, again a source of amusement for me. The last thing I really enjoyed is how Tenorio increased the suspense and tension towards the end just when I thought events were calming down and provided a very satisfying ending. She took two of my favorite tropes, the responsible big brother and sister’s best friend, and created a great combination.
I give Trust in Me an A-
**BP Note: Do not forget to look at our earlier post today for some great insight into both Susie and Locke**
May 26, 2013
FTC Warning. I wasn't paid for the review but did get it from the publicist. I consider myself of a fan of the series prior to reading it.
There are three things I love about this series;
One: No two books are alike. Some are angsty goodness and some are hilarious but all are fabulous
Two: They all leave me with that lovely feel good factor that makes me read them over and over again.
Three: The heroines are all fantastic.
This is the fifth addition to the series and I do recommend that you read the previous book before starting it to get introduced to the characters of Locke and Susie.
I don’t know how to do this review without adding spoilers but I’m going to try my blooming upmost. There is a plot point that I won’t disclose that occurs within the first 5% of the book but, still, it’s a doozy so I’ll leave it out of the review.
I loved the chemistry between Locke and Susie in The Virgins Revenge. In that tale, they blatantly had been harbouring some sexual feelings towards each other but, during the course of this latest addition to the series, these feelings explode. After one spectacular night together, Locke realises that Susie is the only woman that can make him happy. Convincing Susie of that is the issue...
Locke is one seriously swoon-worthy dude in need of some happiness. When his parents died, he took over the role of raising all his brothers and sister. At a very young age, he had his life, and future, put on hold to raise others and now that they are all grown he is at a loss as to what to do with himself. The only thing that he can truly say he wants is Susie and she is pushing him away with both hands and feet!
I adore Locke; he may be my second favourite hero in this series (my heart belongs to Raul). He is so emotionally aware that he instinctively knows how to treat her and the other players in this book. He is the ultimate protector character; strong, dependable and guaranteed to keep all the ones he loves safe. He is just what she needs and I honestly thought that she was good for him; she didn’t allow him the freedom that he got from his family. He was completely naive with affairs of the heart and got a few things wrong but, ultimately, he got it right in the end J
Susie is a lady with many many secrets. Her previous marriage left her with scars of the emotional and physical variety and she can never put down roots for the fear of him finding her again. When Locke starts to press for something more, she knows that she can’t give him what he needs. I adored her and her strength of character. I thought no less of her for her stance on moving on quickly; I can’t imagine being in such a situation and not having survival as my main priority. That being said, I didn’t know how it would be conducive to the telling of a love story. I don’t know why I ever question Dee Tenorio J
The romance between them is sweet and sexy. I loved the way that they fit together; Locke is the perfect man to help Susie learn to trust again. The story of their journey kept me hooked from start to finish and I know it will be another addition to my keeper shelf.
Another fabulous addition to the series, with another fantastic pairing for me to fall in love with. If you like your romance angsty and funny, this is a series I recommend!
There are three things I love about this series;
One: No two books are alike. Some are angsty goodness and some are hilarious but all are fabulous
Two: They all leave me with that lovely feel good factor that makes me read them over and over again.
Three: The heroines are all fantastic.
This is the fifth addition to the series and I do recommend that you read the previous book before starting it to get introduced to the characters of Locke and Susie.
I don’t know how to do this review without adding spoilers but I’m going to try my blooming upmost. There is a plot point that I won’t disclose that occurs within the first 5% of the book but, still, it’s a doozy so I’ll leave it out of the review.
I loved the chemistry between Locke and Susie in The Virgins Revenge. In that tale, they blatantly had been harbouring some sexual feelings towards each other but, during the course of this latest addition to the series, these feelings explode. After one spectacular night together, Locke realises that Susie is the only woman that can make him happy. Convincing Susie of that is the issue...
Locke is one seriously swoon-worthy dude in need of some happiness. When his parents died, he took over the role of raising all his brothers and sister. At a very young age, he had his life, and future, put on hold to raise others and now that they are all grown he is at a loss as to what to do with himself. The only thing that he can truly say he wants is Susie and she is pushing him away with both hands and feet!
I adore Locke; he may be my second favourite hero in this series (my heart belongs to Raul). He is so emotionally aware that he instinctively knows how to treat her and the other players in this book. He is the ultimate protector character; strong, dependable and guaranteed to keep all the ones he loves safe. He is just what she needs and I honestly thought that she was good for him; she didn’t allow him the freedom that he got from his family. He was completely naive with affairs of the heart and got a few things wrong but, ultimately, he got it right in the end J
Susie is a lady with many many secrets. Her previous marriage left her with scars of the emotional and physical variety and she can never put down roots for the fear of him finding her again. When Locke starts to press for something more, she knows that she can’t give him what he needs. I adored her and her strength of character. I thought no less of her for her stance on moving on quickly; I can’t imagine being in such a situation and not having survival as my main priority. That being said, I didn’t know how it would be conducive to the telling of a love story. I don’t know why I ever question Dee Tenorio J
The romance between them is sweet and sexy. I loved the way that they fit together; Locke is the perfect man to help Susie learn to trust again. The story of their journey kept me hooked from start to finish and I know it will be another addition to my keeper shelf.
Another fabulous addition to the series, with another fantastic pairing for me to fall in love with. If you like your romance angsty and funny, this is a series I recommend!
July 26, 2013
*Sigh* where do I start with this one?? Well I guess I first start with an apology to Dee because I’ve had this for a bit on my Kindle but have been a bit sidetracked on what title released what date. So Dee I’m extremely sorry that it took me this long to fall in love with Locke but now that I’ve finally read it I’m truly kicking myself for taking so long. He’s just amazing and the fact you gave him a partner that won’t let him roll all over her is just amazing.
As much as I want to gush about Locke I’m going to start with talking about the woman who was lucky enough to catch his attention and his devotion. Susie owns the local lingerie and other fun items shop but other than this she’s a bit of a mystery to the town. Sure she’s close to Amanda Jackman but otherwise she’s a bit private in her off-hours and other than one incredible interlude in a remote cabin is not involved with anyone. Does she harbor thoughts about the big man across the street who can get her revved up with just a look? Yes… is she hiding something huge from her past that makes her feel like no matter how badly she craves him she shouldn’t lead him on? Yes. Is she hiding something more pressing from him than her past? Oh yes she is but with her history she’s not going to spill the beans on this time bomb until she can have 3 more days to fret and worry. She’s strong but with her history carries an amazing amount of baggage that will make you truly feel for her as much as you want to yell at her for pushing Locke away. She just can’t see beyond the past to a future she really does deserve with a man that would do anything to make her happy.
Ok … I can’t hold out on gushing over Locke any more… I just can’t. He’s just an amazing character that you wish was waiting around the corner for you to find and have fall in love with you. He can be a bit overbearing but you can tell it really does come out of a place of love and not out of a need to control every action you make. He’s put his life on hold to raise and keep together his family after the death of their parents but he really doesn’t feel that he made a huge sacrifice as his family means the world to him. When he sets eyes on Susie he knows that this woman is the one for him and also senses that she’s not going to make the pursuit of her easy so he just works on being a part of her life until the one day when their mutual lust explodes at his cabin. Once they get back to town she’s even more determined to keep him out but he’s even more sure that this is the one for him and will do what he can to make her understand. When her secrets come out he shows an amazing amount of patience and compassion while doing everything he can to prove that she can trust him and trust in them. I have to say watching such a strong man struggle with his need to protect the woman he loves and her need to prove her own strength was amazing. I’ve also got to say he broke my heart a few times as we watch him brought to his knees by some of her actions (trust me she means well but man seeing him in pain was just….).
Ok Locke love-fest over as man I could continue talking about him for a very very long time. Thanks to Dee for sharing this story with me with no expectation of a favorable review… I adored him!!
As much as I want to gush about Locke I’m going to start with talking about the woman who was lucky enough to catch his attention and his devotion. Susie owns the local lingerie and other fun items shop but other than this she’s a bit of a mystery to the town. Sure she’s close to Amanda Jackman but otherwise she’s a bit private in her off-hours and other than one incredible interlude in a remote cabin is not involved with anyone. Does she harbor thoughts about the big man across the street who can get her revved up with just a look? Yes… is she hiding something huge from her past that makes her feel like no matter how badly she craves him she shouldn’t lead him on? Yes. Is she hiding something more pressing from him than her past? Oh yes she is but with her history she’s not going to spill the beans on this time bomb until she can have 3 more days to fret and worry. She’s strong but with her history carries an amazing amount of baggage that will make you truly feel for her as much as you want to yell at her for pushing Locke away. She just can’t see beyond the past to a future she really does deserve with a man that would do anything to make her happy.
Ok … I can’t hold out on gushing over Locke any more… I just can’t. He’s just an amazing character that you wish was waiting around the corner for you to find and have fall in love with you. He can be a bit overbearing but you can tell it really does come out of a place of love and not out of a need to control every action you make. He’s put his life on hold to raise and keep together his family after the death of their parents but he really doesn’t feel that he made a huge sacrifice as his family means the world to him. When he sets eyes on Susie he knows that this woman is the one for him and also senses that she’s not going to make the pursuit of her easy so he just works on being a part of her life until the one day when their mutual lust explodes at his cabin. Once they get back to town she’s even more determined to keep him out but he’s even more sure that this is the one for him and will do what he can to make her understand. When her secrets come out he shows an amazing amount of patience and compassion while doing everything he can to prove that she can trust him and trust in them. I have to say watching such a strong man struggle with his need to protect the woman he loves and her need to prove her own strength was amazing. I’ve also got to say he broke my heart a few times as we watch him brought to his knees by some of her actions (trust me she means well but man seeing him in pain was just….).
Ok Locke love-fest over as man I could continue talking about him for a very very long time. Thanks to Dee for sharing this story with me with no expectation of a favorable review… I adored him!!
April 28, 2013
Recommended Read. My review cross-posted from Joyfully Reviewed: http://www.joyfullyreviewed.com/recom...
As a young man, Locke Jackman’s future was forever changed when his parents died and he gave up his college career to raise his six younger siblings. Now that his brothers and sister have all grown up and moved out of the house, Locke is at loose ends. With an empty house and no distractions, he is no longer able to ignore his sister’s best friend, sexy lingerie store owner Susie Packard.
Susie has it bad for Locke, but she’s been badly burned by love before and has no intention of ever putting herself in a position to be hurt again. Still, there’s no denying her feelings for him and when the sexual tension between them boils over, the consequences have Susie running scared.
Can Locke convince Susie to trust him, in their love, or will the ghosts of her past destroy any chance they have at happiness?
Trust in Me is the most heartbreakingly beautiful book I’ve read this year. Just when I think I can’t love Dee Tenorio’s work any more than I already do, she delivers a story that blows me away. Trust in Me is love, trust, passion, poignancy, and, well, life all rolled into one.
Susie’s a smart, successful woman who I’d love to have as a friend. She’s been hit hard by life and is achingly vulnerable because of it. I won’t reveal much for fear of spoiling the story, but suffice it to say that even though she pushes Locke away, she has valid reasons for her fears. Locke has his work cut out for him convincing Susie to “trust in him,” but his doing so made for one heck of a story. And speaking of Locke… If I had to pick a favorite hero of Ms. Tenorio’s, Locke would be it. Outwardly he’s all strength, but his commanding presence covers a marshmallow center. He’s spent years raising and watching over his siblings, but now that they’ve all moved out and are living their own lives, Locke is a bit lost. He has so much love to give that my heart broke for him ten times over while reading Trust in Me. He and Susie are an amazing couple — one of Ms. Tenorio’s best, and that’s saying a lot.
Trust in Me brought tears to my eyes a couple of times, but since Ms. Tenorio packs a number of surprises in the book, I can’t say much about the plot without spoiling it for the reader. I will say that fans of the Rancho del Cielo series will delight in seeing more of the boisterous, loving Jackman family, particularly Amanda of The Virgin’s Revenge and the elder twins, Dean and Daniel. My only complaint is that I finished Trust in Me wanting more Rancho del Cielo books, more Jackman family stories. Ms. Tenorio made me want to be part of the Jackman clan (I admit, I have crushes on Dean and Spencer) and I can only hope that readers won’t have to say good-bye to them anytime soon.
Locke and Susie’s journey to the happily ever after they so deserve is an engaging, emotional experience. Trust me when I say that Trust in Me is a book you do not want to miss!
As a young man, Locke Jackman’s future was forever changed when his parents died and he gave up his college career to raise his six younger siblings. Now that his brothers and sister have all grown up and moved out of the house, Locke is at loose ends. With an empty house and no distractions, he is no longer able to ignore his sister’s best friend, sexy lingerie store owner Susie Packard.
Susie has it bad for Locke, but she’s been badly burned by love before and has no intention of ever putting herself in a position to be hurt again. Still, there’s no denying her feelings for him and when the sexual tension between them boils over, the consequences have Susie running scared.
Can Locke convince Susie to trust him, in their love, or will the ghosts of her past destroy any chance they have at happiness?
Trust in Me is the most heartbreakingly beautiful book I’ve read this year. Just when I think I can’t love Dee Tenorio’s work any more than I already do, she delivers a story that blows me away. Trust in Me is love, trust, passion, poignancy, and, well, life all rolled into one.
Susie’s a smart, successful woman who I’d love to have as a friend. She’s been hit hard by life and is achingly vulnerable because of it. I won’t reveal much for fear of spoiling the story, but suffice it to say that even though she pushes Locke away, she has valid reasons for her fears. Locke has his work cut out for him convincing Susie to “trust in him,” but his doing so made for one heck of a story. And speaking of Locke… If I had to pick a favorite hero of Ms. Tenorio’s, Locke would be it. Outwardly he’s all strength, but his commanding presence covers a marshmallow center. He’s spent years raising and watching over his siblings, but now that they’ve all moved out and are living their own lives, Locke is a bit lost. He has so much love to give that my heart broke for him ten times over while reading Trust in Me. He and Susie are an amazing couple — one of Ms. Tenorio’s best, and that’s saying a lot.
Trust in Me brought tears to my eyes a couple of times, but since Ms. Tenorio packs a number of surprises in the book, I can’t say much about the plot without spoiling it for the reader. I will say that fans of the Rancho del Cielo series will delight in seeing more of the boisterous, loving Jackman family, particularly Amanda of The Virgin’s Revenge and the elder twins, Dean and Daniel. My only complaint is that I finished Trust in Me wanting more Rancho del Cielo books, more Jackman family stories. Ms. Tenorio made me want to be part of the Jackman clan (I admit, I have crushes on Dean and Spencer) and I can only hope that readers won’t have to say good-bye to them anytime soon.
Locke and Susie’s journey to the happily ever after they so deserve is an engaging, emotional experience. Trust me when I say that Trust in Me is a book you do not want to miss!
July 25, 2013
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Review copy provided for an honest review
5 STARS
I have been a huge fan of Dee Tenorio’s Rancho del Cielo series and although this book is part purestdelightawardof a series it can be read as a standalone. The one thing I’ve always loved about this series is every book tackles an issue, it’s woven into the plot so it’s not like it jumps out at you but Dee’s books will always make you think. Trust In Me is no different and while I’ve enjoyed every book this one was flat out fantastic.
We met both Locke Jackman and Susie Packard in the last book. Locke really over stepped his bounds with his little sister Amanda who happens to be Susie’s best friend. In that book you got the sense that something was brewing between Locke and Susie, but you also got the feeling that Susie wouldn’t let it happen. Susie is a wild card and she makes sure she relies only on herself.
Right from the start we find that Locke and Susie shared a night together, something he’s hasn’t forgotten and plans to repeat as soon as she lets him. Susie on the other hand knows all too well they spent that time together and as much as she want to spend more time with Locke she has to keep her distance for now.
It’s so hard to review this book because I don’t want to give anything away so I’ll begin by saying Susie barely escaped a horrible abusive marriage. Locke after raising his 6 younger siblings is feeling at odds and is ready to start living HIS life and he wants Susie to be a part of it. Susie adores Locke but she really feels she’s doing him a favor by staying away. Good thing his sister Amanda doesn’t see it that way and neither does he and he slowly begins to knock down the twelve foot high brick walls she’s built around herself.
I loved watching Locke work to gain Susie’s trust and work his way into her heart. While he is a bit overbearing you just get the feeling that he really is a big old teddy bear and you want to hug the stuffing out of him. He is so well meaning and I love the way he jumps in and cares for Susie when she isn’t feeling well. I also love that he shares a part of himself with her that he doesn’t share with anyone else including his siblings. Susie…wow, I admire her so much for what she dealt with in the past and all she’s overcome. While I would love to fault her for keeping her distance from Locke I can’t because I know she truly believes she’s doing the right thing.
This is one of those books that will have you running through a gambit of feelings. I would be laughing one minute, crying the next and spitting nails right after that. It isn’t a pretty story, yes there are some beautiful and sexy moments but there is also the ugly reality of abuse and the scars that come with it. What I love more than anything about Trust In Me is Locke’s complete and utter confidence that with love and hope all things are possible.
Review copy provided for an honest review
5 STARS
I have been a huge fan of Dee Tenorio’s Rancho del Cielo series and although this book is part purestdelightawardof a series it can be read as a standalone. The one thing I’ve always loved about this series is every book tackles an issue, it’s woven into the plot so it’s not like it jumps out at you but Dee’s books will always make you think. Trust In Me is no different and while I’ve enjoyed every book this one was flat out fantastic.
We met both Locke Jackman and Susie Packard in the last book. Locke really over stepped his bounds with his little sister Amanda who happens to be Susie’s best friend. In that book you got the sense that something was brewing between Locke and Susie, but you also got the feeling that Susie wouldn’t let it happen. Susie is a wild card and she makes sure she relies only on herself.
Right from the start we find that Locke and Susie shared a night together, something he’s hasn’t forgotten and plans to repeat as soon as she lets him. Susie on the other hand knows all too well they spent that time together and as much as she want to spend more time with Locke she has to keep her distance for now.
It’s so hard to review this book because I don’t want to give anything away so I’ll begin by saying Susie barely escaped a horrible abusive marriage. Locke after raising his 6 younger siblings is feeling at odds and is ready to start living HIS life and he wants Susie to be a part of it. Susie adores Locke but she really feels she’s doing him a favor by staying away. Good thing his sister Amanda doesn’t see it that way and neither does he and he slowly begins to knock down the twelve foot high brick walls she’s built around herself.
I loved watching Locke work to gain Susie’s trust and work his way into her heart. While he is a bit overbearing you just get the feeling that he really is a big old teddy bear and you want to hug the stuffing out of him. He is so well meaning and I love the way he jumps in and cares for Susie when she isn’t feeling well. I also love that he shares a part of himself with her that he doesn’t share with anyone else including his siblings. Susie…wow, I admire her so much for what she dealt with in the past and all she’s overcome. While I would love to fault her for keeping her distance from Locke I can’t because I know she truly believes she’s doing the right thing.
This is one of those books that will have you running through a gambit of feelings. I would be laughing one minute, crying the next and spitting nails right after that. It isn’t a pretty story, yes there are some beautiful and sexy moments but there is also the ugly reality of abuse and the scars that come with it. What I love more than anything about Trust In Me is Locke’s complete and utter confidence that with love and hope all things are possible.
July 26, 2013
Title: Trust In Me
Series: Rancho Del Cielo bk 5
Author: Dee Tenorio
Genre: Contemporary
Sometimes falling in love is the easy part…
A Rancho del Cielo Romance.
Locke Jackman is single, childless…and he has a bad case of empty nest syndrome. For years, as he fought tooth and nail to keep his brothers and sisters together after his parents died, his entire life was focused on his responsibilities.
Now his siblings have all moved on with their lives, and there’s no one around to distract him from his overpowering attraction to his sister’s best friend. Their mutual desire is stunning…but then again, so are the secrets keeping them apart.
Susie Packard’s nightmarish marriage taught her what happens when she gives in to her weakness for powerful men. Too bad the big, stoic frowner across the street—the one who sets her bells jangling just by breathing—has her in his sights.
Try as she might to keep her emotional distance, Locke is determinedly knocking down all her walls. But as much as she wants to be the woman he needs, she knows better than most— passion may have its rewards, but every secret has its price.
Product Warnings
This book contains a hot, modern-day Viking seducing his way to the heart of his woman, a stubborn lingerie designer with a world of secrets and a very deep bathtub… Enjoy!
I've been anxiously awaiting this book ever since The Virgin's Revenge ended. In Trust In Me we get to see the repercussions of Susie and Locke's week-end at that cabin. And oh boy are there some repercussions.
Locke has wanted Susie since the moment she showed up in town. When he finally gets her during an amazing weekend at his cabin he thinks everything between them will be different. Will be what he's always wanted. Instead he gets the cold shoulder. He's positive he didn't imagine her feelings for him during that weekend.
Susie has a secret. A secret so big and huge she's afraid that if she reveals it everything will come crashing down around her, causing her to lose the one thing she so desperately wants. When her past comes knocking on her door and not in a good way, she collapses. Causing Locke to react. When the secret comes out Locke not only understands but gives what she needs, whether she wants it or not.
I have to admit when I read this story, Susie's past wasn't what I was expecting. In the beginning I was a little leary of it, because it's one of those story lines that I'm not a fan of, BUT in this case it worked. It worked on all levels because we're able to see just how far Locke is willing to go to give Susie what she needs, even if it kills him.
I've always enjoyed Dee's stories, but with this book she's firmly on my auto-buy keeper list.
I do recommend you read The Virgin's Revenge before you read this book, so you understand why Locke is the way he is, and some other things that happen in this book.
Grade A
Review by: Heather
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Series: Rancho Del Cielo bk 5
Author: Dee Tenorio
Genre: Contemporary
Sometimes falling in love is the easy part…
A Rancho del Cielo Romance.
Locke Jackman is single, childless…and he has a bad case of empty nest syndrome. For years, as he fought tooth and nail to keep his brothers and sisters together after his parents died, his entire life was focused on his responsibilities.
Now his siblings have all moved on with their lives, and there’s no one around to distract him from his overpowering attraction to his sister’s best friend. Their mutual desire is stunning…but then again, so are the secrets keeping them apart.
Susie Packard’s nightmarish marriage taught her what happens when she gives in to her weakness for powerful men. Too bad the big, stoic frowner across the street—the one who sets her bells jangling just by breathing—has her in his sights.
Try as she might to keep her emotional distance, Locke is determinedly knocking down all her walls. But as much as she wants to be the woman he needs, she knows better than most— passion may have its rewards, but every secret has its price.
Product Warnings
This book contains a hot, modern-day Viking seducing his way to the heart of his woman, a stubborn lingerie designer with a world of secrets and a very deep bathtub… Enjoy!
I've been anxiously awaiting this book ever since The Virgin's Revenge ended. In Trust In Me we get to see the repercussions of Susie and Locke's week-end at that cabin. And oh boy are there some repercussions.
Locke has wanted Susie since the moment she showed up in town. When he finally gets her during an amazing weekend at his cabin he thinks everything between them will be different. Will be what he's always wanted. Instead he gets the cold shoulder. He's positive he didn't imagine her feelings for him during that weekend.
Susie has a secret. A secret so big and huge she's afraid that if she reveals it everything will come crashing down around her, causing her to lose the one thing she so desperately wants. When her past comes knocking on her door and not in a good way, she collapses. Causing Locke to react. When the secret comes out Locke not only understands but gives what she needs, whether she wants it or not.
I have to admit when I read this story, Susie's past wasn't what I was expecting. In the beginning I was a little leary of it, because it's one of those story lines that I'm not a fan of, BUT in this case it worked. It worked on all levels because we're able to see just how far Locke is willing to go to give Susie what she needs, even if it kills him.
I've always enjoyed Dee's stories, but with this book she's firmly on my auto-buy keeper list.
I do recommend you read The Virgin's Revenge before you read this book, so you understand why Locke is the way he is, and some other things that happen in this book.
Grade A
Review by: Heather
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
May 30, 2013
4,5 stars!
It's been a while since I read Dee Tenorio's last book, THE VIRGIN’S REVENGE and ever since I read it I've been waiting for Locke's story. I fell for him the moment he set foot in that book and he met my high expectations in his own. I might even say he exceeded those expectations. He had me from the very first sentence till the very last.
As always Dee's writing kept me under its spell with an intriguing bit of plot that brought out the protector in Locke something fierce. Not that he needed any encouragement in that area. That man invented the word protector. I really liked Susie too. She was fierce and independent but underneath the brawn was a vulnerable woman who despite her fears and issues is willing to take a shot at love.
TRUST IN ME is a perfect combination of humor and emotional intensity at its best. At one point I was smiling and teary-eyed at the same time. This is one of the things I adore in Dee Tenorio's books! She hits all my sweet spots with one swing and leaves me wanting more as soon as I read the last word.
Favorite Scenes:
- Susie telling Locke about her past > I cried
- the doctor's visit with Penelope > so much angst and emotionally very gripping
Favorite Quotes:
I so should not be doing this. But she wanted him more than she wanted anything in the entire world, especially reason. His mouth made love to hers, slow strokes of his tongue, ones she could feel in tighter, infinitely more sensitive places. Places that were coming awake in a rush, wanting their turn in his care.
“What? I’m just saying.” Daniel’s favorite excuse for spouting off whatever came to his lips. Clearly, none of it went through his mind first. “She don’t want nothing to do with him, but he’s always there. Staring. Breathing. Like a desperate psycho. He’s scaring people.”
“You are not a possession to me. You never have been and you never will be. But you are my own. I’ll protect you with everything I am, all that I have and every last breath in my body.”
She lay here now, looking at the man she loved, the father of her child and so many other things she didn’t have the words to express. Relief just wasn’t good enough. Love might not be good enough, she decided. What she felt for him was too deep, too much a part of her soul—a soul he’d helped her sew back together piece by tattered piece—for one word to convey. But it was a start.
It's been a while since I read Dee Tenorio's last book, THE VIRGIN’S REVENGE and ever since I read it I've been waiting for Locke's story. I fell for him the moment he set foot in that book and he met my high expectations in his own. I might even say he exceeded those expectations. He had me from the very first sentence till the very last.
As always Dee's writing kept me under its spell with an intriguing bit of plot that brought out the protector in Locke something fierce. Not that he needed any encouragement in that area. That man invented the word protector. I really liked Susie too. She was fierce and independent but underneath the brawn was a vulnerable woman who despite her fears and issues is willing to take a shot at love.
TRUST IN ME is a perfect combination of humor and emotional intensity at its best. At one point I was smiling and teary-eyed at the same time. This is one of the things I adore in Dee Tenorio's books! She hits all my sweet spots with one swing and leaves me wanting more as soon as I read the last word.
Favorite Scenes:
- Susie telling Locke about her past > I cried
- the doctor's visit with Penelope > so much angst and emotionally very gripping
Favorite Quotes:
I so should not be doing this. But she wanted him more than she wanted anything in the entire world, especially reason. His mouth made love to hers, slow strokes of his tongue, ones she could feel in tighter, infinitely more sensitive places. Places that were coming awake in a rush, wanting their turn in his care.
“What? I’m just saying.” Daniel’s favorite excuse for spouting off whatever came to his lips. Clearly, none of it went through his mind first. “She don’t want nothing to do with him, but he’s always there. Staring. Breathing. Like a desperate psycho. He’s scaring people.”
“You are not a possession to me. You never have been and you never will be. But you are my own. I’ll protect you with everything I am, all that I have and every last breath in my body.”
She lay here now, looking at the man she loved, the father of her child and so many other things she didn’t have the words to express. Relief just wasn’t good enough. Love might not be good enough, she decided. What she felt for him was too deep, too much a part of her soul—a soul he’d helped her sew back together piece by tattered piece—for one word to convey. But it was a start.
July 30, 2013
This is the second book in this series I’ve read, and, to be honest, I didn’t realize there are two prior stories. I’d like to go back and read those, but after spending time with Locke Jackman? I think every other man wouldn’t be able to hold his own next to this sexy and gentle hero.
I so love the way this book begins – a wonderfully written lovemaking scene, something we don’t get very often in romance. We usually have to wait three-quarters of a book before that happens, so this is a breath of fresh air. Afterward is when the fear and the love appear. Locke has been trying, ever since Susie came to town, to get close to her, but the woman has resisted him at every turn. Fortunately for him, now that his siblings are out of the house, all his focus can be on her, the only woman he could ever love and who he thought would never be in his life.
Susie has finally found a place where she feels safe. As much as she’s wanted to give in to Locke, she knows she can’t involve anyone in her life. But as she waits for the news that will change her world – and Locke’s – Susie realizes she’s already involved this family much too deeply for her to just walk away. But when reality slaps her square in gut once again, walking away is exactly what she has to do. However, Locke figures out a lot of what Susie is fearful of and asks just one thing – “Trust me.”
Locke is a patient man. He knows he and Susie belong together, but she can’t get past the idea that he’d still want her once he learns her history. And she’s proud of the new life she’s built, the new person in her who has emerged. So much so she doesn’t want to go back through it all when Locke confronts her and her fears.
I enjoyed both of these characters so much. Locke is a huge, handsome Viking of a man, slow to anger with a lightning-quick lustiness. His tenderness with Susie melted my heart every time. Susie comes into her own when the fear and danger she’s been running from finally rears its ugly head again. And Locke is right there to protect the new life within his grasp with everything he’s got. Love that man!
The relationship with his siblings is just as fun here as it was in the previous book. You can definitely see where it is Locke’s patience comes from. I don’t know if Ms. Tenorio has any books in mind for the Jackman men who are left, but it sure would be fun to see how she handles them.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
I so love the way this book begins – a wonderfully written lovemaking scene, something we don’t get very often in romance. We usually have to wait three-quarters of a book before that happens, so this is a breath of fresh air. Afterward is when the fear and the love appear. Locke has been trying, ever since Susie came to town, to get close to her, but the woman has resisted him at every turn. Fortunately for him, now that his siblings are out of the house, all his focus can be on her, the only woman he could ever love and who he thought would never be in his life.
Susie has finally found a place where she feels safe. As much as she’s wanted to give in to Locke, she knows she can’t involve anyone in her life. But as she waits for the news that will change her world – and Locke’s – Susie realizes she’s already involved this family much too deeply for her to just walk away. But when reality slaps her square in gut once again, walking away is exactly what she has to do. However, Locke figures out a lot of what Susie is fearful of and asks just one thing – “Trust me.”
Locke is a patient man. He knows he and Susie belong together, but she can’t get past the idea that he’d still want her once he learns her history. And she’s proud of the new life she’s built, the new person in her who has emerged. So much so she doesn’t want to go back through it all when Locke confronts her and her fears.
I enjoyed both of these characters so much. Locke is a huge, handsome Viking of a man, slow to anger with a lightning-quick lustiness. His tenderness with Susie melted my heart every time. Susie comes into her own when the fear and danger she’s been running from finally rears its ugly head again. And Locke is right there to protect the new life within his grasp with everything he’s got. Love that man!
The relationship with his siblings is just as fun here as it was in the previous book. You can definitely see where it is Locke’s patience comes from. I don’t know if Ms. Tenorio has any books in mind for the Jackman men who are left, but it sure would be fun to see how she handles them.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
September 11, 2013
3.5 stars
If Dee Tenorio has a magic power it is that none of her characters are stupid. I've only read two of her books so far, but in both of them, her characters are filled with the kind of intelligence that is oh so refreshing in a romance.
In Trust in Me, the reader is treated to a secret very early on that the heroine, Susie is keeping from her love interest, Locke. There's a whole genre of romance novels devoted to this type of secret, but Tenorio knows that this type of thing is kind of boring so she has Locke be incredibly adept and insightful and figure shit out on his own. Something similar happened in The Virgin's Revenge, the only other book I've read in the Rancho del Cielo series. The lies and misunderstandings that usually underpin contemporary romances are tossed on their head by Tenorio, and what is left is a much more enjoyable and intelligent story filled with far more likeable characters.
Not that the characters' smarts always include themselves. Here, Susie has some personal misgivings and self-doubts that on some level are perfectly understandable given her difficult history, but still strain credulity when faced with the immovable force of Locke's affections. The man is like a brick wall of love that can't be avoided. The two have been dancing around each other for two years, driving each other crazy and basically falling in love. A lot of the hard work of the relationship has already happened before this book begins, but we get the tale of how these two learn to accept the inevitable, and stop fighting themselves.
There's also a shady character skulking about and a bit of harrowing action thrown in the mix. Overall, a great comfort read. I wonder if there will be future books featuring the other Jackman brothers, I'd love to see the elder twins grow up and find women that can stand them.
If Dee Tenorio has a magic power it is that none of her characters are stupid. I've only read two of her books so far, but in both of them, her characters are filled with the kind of intelligence that is oh so refreshing in a romance.
In Trust in Me, the reader is treated to a secret very early on that the heroine, Susie is keeping from her love interest, Locke. There's a whole genre of romance novels devoted to this type of secret, but Tenorio knows that this type of thing is kind of boring so she has Locke be incredibly adept and insightful and figure shit out on his own. Something similar happened in The Virgin's Revenge, the only other book I've read in the Rancho del Cielo series. The lies and misunderstandings that usually underpin contemporary romances are tossed on their head by Tenorio, and what is left is a much more enjoyable and intelligent story filled with far more likeable characters.
Not that the characters' smarts always include themselves. Here, Susie has some personal misgivings and self-doubts that on some level are perfectly understandable given her difficult history, but still strain credulity when faced with the immovable force of Locke's affections. The man is like a brick wall of love that can't be avoided. The two have been dancing around each other for two years, driving each other crazy and basically falling in love. A lot of the hard work of the relationship has already happened before this book begins, but we get the tale of how these two learn to accept the inevitable, and stop fighting themselves.
There's also a shady character skulking about and a bit of harrowing action thrown in the mix. Overall, a great comfort read. I wonder if there will be future books featuring the other Jackman brothers, I'd love to see the elder twins grow up and find women that can stand them.
May 30, 2013
A delightful and deeply emotional new read by a fine author whose stories have been favorites of mine in the past. The old story of a woman trying to establish a new life under the radar of an ex who is a really bad guy now blends in with the tale of a man who has put almost every dream he has ever had to one side in order to raise his brothers and sister. Now they are all adult, living their own lives, but in addition to his overwhelming attraction to the divorcee who has opened a lingerie shop across the street from his own business, he is dealing with the challenge of allowing his siblings to live their own lives, especially those he deems to be playing with less than a full deck, maturity wise. The issue of trust is obviously the lynch pin around which this story revolves and it is one that also illustrates the paralyzing capability of fear, even though that fear may be real and legitimate, it is still the uppermost "bad guy" in this story. It's a novel that deserves to be read and savored, one that puts the spotlight on the patience and deep commitment that makes our hero the stellar man he is. It's a really great read!!
July 25, 2013
I knew, knew, I would love Locke's story! What a man! Big, strong, protective and overly family oriented. Loved him since The Virgin's Revenge. How I adored the story of Locke and Susie. I wasn't sure how their story would go and all that Susie suffered previously. But what a powerful story that had me enthralled from start to finish. So much emotion went into this story as I read it and it was perfect. Dee definitely made this one a great one!
August 7, 2013
I haven't read any of the previous books in this series. While I felt a little out of the loop, I wasn't so confused I couldn't enjoy the story.
I liked that the hero was the one in love and pushing for a relationship.
The heroine's reasons for holding back were heartbreaking. I got frustrated with her independence a few times, but I understood why she felt she needed to be in control of every aspect of her life.
A good read.
I liked that the hero was the one in love and pushing for a relationship.
The heroine's reasons for holding back were heartbreaking. I got frustrated with her independence a few times, but I understood why she felt she needed to be in control of every aspect of her life.
A good read.
May 2, 2013
I didn't think it was possible to love Locke more after The Virgin's Revenge, but I was soooo wrong. The things he does to show Suzie how much he loves her, well let's just say he's off the charts awesome
July 14, 2013
Requested ARC Review: Trust In Me by Dee Tenorio
Rating = 4/5
Caliber SEAL: GREAT READ!
Review goes live at 00:00 hours MVT, July 15, 2013!
Rating = 4/5
Caliber SEAL: GREAT READ!
Review goes live at 00:00 hours MVT, July 15, 2013!
March 2, 2014
3 stars.
I liked the characters, the plot, and writing. I liked this book more than book 4 (the first book I read) because I felt the plot was better. It had an element of danger, and the characters seemed more realistic, whereas they kind of annoyed me in book 4.
I liked the characters, the plot, and writing. I liked this book more than book 4 (the first book I read) because I felt the plot was better. It had an element of danger, and the characters seemed more realistic, whereas they kind of annoyed me in book 4.
May 30, 2013
loved it! It was so nice to finally get Locke 's story! Review coming soon...
June 17, 2013
I liked this latest installment. But we did not get any updates , at all , about our other rancho del cielo residents , which is disappointing !
July 26, 2013
My first book by Dee Tenorio, but definitely not my last!
Full review here.
Full review here.
July 27, 2013
LOVED this hero.
August 9, 2013
Rating 3.5 stars
May 3, 2014
Fantastic was gripped from start to finish.
I got to say Locke is defiantly in my top 5 heroes. Just loved the whole big friendly giant feel
I got to say Locke is defiantly in my top 5 heroes. Just loved the whole big friendly giant feel
January 5, 2016
Engaging and sweet.
November 18, 2016
Loved it!!!!!!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews