Their Inseparable Bond

K-9 Companions #19

by Jill Weatherholt

They’re a mismatched family…

But their hearts line up just right

Training service dogs is single dad Jake Beckett’s calling. He’s determined to train rambunctious puppy Callie to help his ailing friend Myrna live independently with her growing blindness. Myrna’s granddaughter, Olivia Hart, isn’t easily convinced, but Jake, his twins and Callie are an incredibly persuasive team. If Olivia agrees to give Callie a chance, will working with Jake risk her lifelong dreams?

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

K-9 Companions

Book 1: Their Unbreakable Bond by Deb Kastner
Book 2: Finding Her Way Back by Lisa Carter
Book 3: The Veteran's Vow by Jill Lynn
Book 4: Her Easter Prayer by Lee Tobin McClain
Book 5: Earning Her Trust by Brenda Minton
Book 6: Guarding His Secret by Jill Kemerer
Book 7: An Unlikely Alliance by Toni Shiloh
Book 9: A Reason to Stay by Deb Kastner
Book 10: The Veteran's Holiday Home by Lee Tobin McClain
Book 11: An Alaskan Christmas Promise by Belle Calhoune
Book 12: A Steadfast Companion by Myra Johnson
Book 14: A Friend to Trust by Lee Tobin McClain
Book 15: Her Alaskan Companion by Heidi McCahan
Book 16: A Companion for Christmas by Lee Tobin McClain
Book 17: Her Christmas Healing by Mindy Obenhaus
Book 18: Finding Their Way Back by Jenna Mindel
Book 19: Their Inseparable Bond by Jill Weatherholt
Book 20: Bonding with the Babies by Deb Kastner
Book 21: Her Son's Faithful Companion by Jill Weatherholt

Genres: Christian Fiction, Dogs, Christian, Harlequin, Christian Romance

224 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published January 23, 2024

About the author

Newsletter Sign-up: JillWeatherholt.Substack.com

Jill Weatherholt is an author of sweet, emotional, small-town romance novels that guarantee a happy ending.

She’s sold over half a dozen sweet romance short stories to Woman’s World Magazine.

Raised in the suburbs of Washington, D.C., she now resides in North Carolina. She holds a degree in Psychology from George Mason University and Paralegal Studies Certification from Duke University.

She shares her life with her real-life hero and number one supporter. Their relationship grew on the golf course, and now they have one in their backyard.

Jill believes in enjoying every moment of this journey because God has everything under control.

Sign-up for her newsletter at JillWeatherholt.com for the latest news and giveaways.

Instagram: jillweatherholt.author

Reviews

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sweet and heartwarming story dealt with not only the question of what makes people a family, but also touched on the topic of how grief impacts us, young and old. I really felt for both of these main characters, as well as the children.

Jake and his children were still living with the effects of the grief they were experiencing over the death of the woman who was Jake’s wife and the children’s mother. Their issues were definitely understandable and I liked the way both Myrna and Olivia were able to positively impact all of their lives.

It was clear that Olivia was also dealing with a type of grief as well. It wasn’t as easy to see immediately, but once Jake got to know Olivia, he came to understand that she grieved the failing of her marriage and the fact that her ex-husband claimed to not want any children. Olivia grieved the fact that even though she had a successful career, her marriage had failed and she was probably not going to get to be a mother.

Olivia and Jake had to face some big changes and tackle some fears head on in this story before they could find a path to a happily ever after together. I really enjoyed this book and loved the sweet epilogue.

(4.5 stars)

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Sheila · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book just dragged way to much.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is not anything you will not love about this story from the adorable cover to the heartwarming story within. I love the characters and how they each were dealing with grief but for different reason. Jake and his children have lost a wife and mother, his older friend Myra is losing her eyesight, and her granddaughter has lost her marriage and the hope of having children. Throw this all together and you will shed a tear or two and smile a lot when God deals with hearts and lives and gives beauty for ashes. It is a story that has you engaged in from the beginning and turning pages quickly to find out what happens next. This book gripped my heartstrings and gave a few yanks along the way as emotions take unexpected turns. I recommend curling up with a blanket and settling in as you won’t want to quit once started.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet and clean love story of two people who just can’t seem to mesh since their lives are so totally different and separated by distance. Dr. Olivia Hart visits her grandmother Myrna, with the intention of taking Myrna to Miami to live with her since her grandmother’s eyesight is failing. Jake Beckett, a service dog trainer and a single father of twins, has a different plan for Myrna. He wants to train rambunctious puppy Callie to help her stay in her home in the small folksy tale of Bluebell, Colorado. The characters are very realistic, expressing the same kinds of feelings I would have in the same situations. The progression of the romance was inviting and sparkling with a growing attraction between not only Jake and Olivia but also between Olivia and the twins and Olivia and Callie. I really enjoyed getting to know Kayla and Kyle, the motherless twins who are vulnerable and intelligent and who also want to be accepted by their peers. I liked the comfortable setting in Myrna’s home and could almost smell her cookies baking. This is a warm romance with well-developed and lovable characters that totally appealed to my need to read a light, quick romance that completely engrossed me in its story.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Just Read. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

[Karen Baney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sweet, engaging romance hooked me from the opening lines. The author weaves a beautiful story of healing, community, and taking a risk on love.

This squeaky clean, slow burn romance focuses on Jake and Olivia and Jake's two children. I enjoyed the way the romance developed. The author delighted me with how she used the kids to help both Jake and Olivia grow.

Of course, I'm a huge fan of dogs, so the service-dog-in-training added comic relief. I loved all the characters in the book and found this a truly enjoyable read.
Fans of clean, sweet romance, and Christian romance will love this book.

Disclaimer: I requested and received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of Just Read Tours. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

[Elaine. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really nice story about love life and dogs

[Jan Sikes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the kind of story that restores faith in all good things in life. It is set in a small town in Colorado where everyone knows everyone and rallies to help when someone needs a hand. It depicts life the way it should be lived with neighbors caring for neighbors. I loved all the characters in this story, from the humans to the dogs.

Jake Beckett is doing his best to take care of his two children, Kyle and Kayla, while still grieving over the loss of his wife and unborn baby. He trains dogs to be service animals and loves his work. An elderly lady in the community, Myrna, is losing her eyesight and Jake has made a promise to provide her with a service dog to help her continue to live independently.

Only Myrna's granddaughter, Olivia, has other ideas. She's come to take Myrna back to Miami to live with her. After all Olivia is a doctor and well equipped to take care of her grandmother. It becomes quickly evident that no one in the community is ready to give up Myrna, most of all Jake and his two children who have a close relationship with her.

I love how events unfold in the story, each one believable and relatable. The author did a great job of keeping the story moving and pacing even and steady. Faith is a strong underlying theme of the story as is family. This book is well-written and a true joy to read. It is a sweet romance with a wonderful ending. I highly recommend it.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jill Weatherholt's Their Inseparable Bond is a tender and touching contemporary romance that cannot fail to touch readers' hearts.

Single dad Jake is passionate about training service dogs. There has never been a dog that Jake hasn't managed to train, but he certainly has his hands full with puppy, Callie, who doesn't seem to ever have met a command which she wanted to obey. Despite of all the challenges ahead, Jake is not about to give up - especially because he hopes that Callie will help his good friend Myrna to live independently with her growing blindness.

Myrna's granddaughter Olivia isn't at all convinced that Callie is the right puppy for her grandmother. But Olivia hadn't counted on Jake's powers of persuasion. Is Olivia about to find everything she has always wanted - in the last place she had ever thought to look?

A tender and touching romantic read perfect for curling up with, readers will be completely charmed and enchanted by Jill Weatherhold's latest inspirational romance, Their Inseparable Bond.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Inspired and romance readers are going to fall in love with Their Inseparable Bond by Jill Weatherholt. This single dad, May/December romance is absolutely delightful. It’s got twins, a grandma, a handsome single dad, an ER doctor, dogs, food…everything to make one adorable book.

Like Olivia, we usually do things with the best of intentions. In her mind, her Gammy Myrna would be safer in Miami where Olivia worked as an ER doctor. Olivia didn’t think about what her grandma wanted or even what God intended. However, her grandma is dearly loved and cared for in her small hometown where friends were like family. Unlike the big city, they look out for each other, and that’s just what Jake was doing for Myrna by training a service dog for her and making her home more accessible considering Myrna’s failing eyesight. Jake and his twins were like family to Myrna, so Jake’s intentions were to prevent Olivia’s intentions. Does this sound familiar? We might not be in the same situation, but how often do our intentions include God? Do we pray for God’s will in the situation, or do we pray that God’s will will fit our plans?

Their Inseparable Bond includes charming, strong, adorable, stubborn well-written characters. I absolutely loved the twins. They’ve been through the worst thing a child should have to deal with at such a young age, their mother’s death. Thankfully God places the right people in our lives when we have to handle hard things, and he did that for the twins. They have a loving support system that has helped them, yet, of course, they’re still hurting. But God is always in control and makes beauty from ashes.

I highly recommend Their Inseparable Bond for those who love clean, inspirational romance books. This story really touched my heart. I cried, I laughed, and I loved it! I think readers will find themselves doing the same.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Their Inseparable Bond by Jill Weatherholt is a clean, well-written romance story based on Christian principles. It is a very moving, heartwarming, and emotional story. Love, selflessness and caring for one another make this a beautiful story with lovely characters that will keep you captivated until the end.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are in search of a small-town romance with adorable kids and a dog, Their Inseparable Bond by Jill Weatherholt is for you.

After the loss of his wife, Jake Beckett’s priority is his twins, but caring for two children—especially a little girl—is tough. Thankfully, he has help in the grandmotherly Myrna. Olivia Hart is determined to bring Myrna back to Florida with her. Jake hopes to prove that, despite her physical challenges, Myrna can live independently with the help of a service dog.

My favorite part of this book was how Oliva understood and connected with Kayla and how much Jake adores his children.

Weatherholt explores the topics of grief, family dynamics, and changing dreams. The journey that Jake and Olivia take is worth the read.


Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.

[Ashlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Their Inseparable Bond is such an engaging read, I was able to read it in one day. I wanted to try to read one more book before the end of 2023 so I picked this one up on New Year’s Eve as Love Inspired books tend to be short and enjoyable. And I was not at all disappointed! Once I started reading, I wanted to keep on reading. The story kept me engaged and I was able to read the book in just a few hours.

There were so many heart warming and heart wrenching moments weaved into this story. Poor Kayla and Kyle have both been through some extreme heartbreak with the loss of their mom at such a young age, but Kayla feels the loss so strongly. She wants to be able to talk about her mom but is afraid of upsetting her dad and brother. When Olivia starts hanging around to help train a potential service dog for her grandma with Jake, Kayla is not at all happy. Kayla is not looking for a replacement mom. However, I loved how delicately Olivia was able to handle their interactions to show Kayla she truly cared and, because they shared similar stories, that she understood how she felt. Plus there is a fun, loveable dog so what’s not to love about that??

I also loved the epilogue as it jumped ahead 14 months into the future. I was able to see a bit more of Olivia and Jake’s story without the plotline feeling rushed to get there. I enjoy a good epilogue so much! Their Inseparable Bond was not a long story but it felt like it unfolded so naturally. I definitely recommend adding this to your TBR.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and I'm leaving an honest and voluntary review.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you in advance to the author, Jill Weatherholt for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.

This is part of the K-9 Companions series, which is more of a “theme” series. It is not connected by characters or place. This book DOES connect to Searching for Home (also by Weatherholt), which introduces One of the Beckett brothers – Luke. Another brother, Logan, is mentioned in this book. There is also a possible “set-up” for a book with him towards the end of this one.


As it is not a “series” per se, I went ahead and called it Bluebell Canyon to link the two books (and a potential third). I have the book on my TBR list. But, since I haven’t read it, I cannot say how closely it is connected to this one.

However, if books are connected – I do like to read them in order and suggest potential readers do so as well.

Weatherholt introduces:

👨🏻 Jake
🥼 Olivia
👵🏻 Myrna (Olivia’s grandmother)
🦮 Callie
👦🏻 Kyle
👧🏻 Kayla

This definitely deals with some hard topics – death of a spouse, death during childbirth, stillborn baby, parental abandonment, late-stage Alzheimer’s. These might be upsetting for some readers. Weatherholt doesn’t dwell on them, but uses the events to shape the characters’ lives and current situation.

Right off, Weatherholt jumps into the story with Jake. He’s grateful for Myrna who helped him in the first year after his wife’s death; her home being a refuge for Jake and the kids. Sadly, Myrna has visual issues – macular degeneration. Jake is hoping he can train a sweet pup, Callie, to help Myrna stay independent as her vision decreases; as well as making the house more accessible.

Olivia is a stressed out, recently divorced Emergency Room (E.R.) doctor, who arrives in Bluebell Canyon to move the only relative she has left – her grandmother Myrna – to Miami to care for the older woman.

Right off Kayla, who is EXTREMELY attached to Myrna, clashes with Olivia. Basically, she treats her as an interloper and outsider.

It is Myrna who suggests Olivia go with Jake and the kids to the auto show, and Kyle helps Olivia out. He’s taken right to “Dr. Olivia”. Kayla has an issue and Jake takes her home.

Olivia is dealing with also the loss of her marriage, and perhaps her chance to have kids. Even her grandmother suggests marrying a man with kids (Jake). However, as he lost his wife in childbirth, he’s closed the door on re-marrying, and having any more kids. He’s also 14 years older than Olivia (she makes a remark to herself he’s too old for her).

Hoping to speed up the process to move her grandmother to Miami, Olivia offers to train Callie. Kayla is extremely upset, to the point of being rude. Jake offers to help Olivia – if she agrees to see how everything plays out (and gives her “gammy” a say in the move).

Olivia is given a chance to connect to Kayla, and as a result, the girl adores the doctor. As it turns out, some advice Jake was given about grieving was not appropriate for the kids. But, Olivia also has her own grief that acts as a catalyst for her motives. Not only the loss of her marriage, but the traumatic death of her father.

Callie’s training is slow, but gives Jake and Olivia time together. Olivia finds she enjoys living a slower and calmer life – though she reiterates her home is in Miami. Though, it seems the whole town is hoping she’ll change her mind and stay. Even a small child is praying as well.

Olivia soon begins to wonder if staying isn’t a bad thing, but she and Jake have to get over a hurdle that puts their strong desires and greatest fears to the test. But, Olivia’s decision is made for her when her job is in peril, meaning she might just have to disappoint the person who’s relying on her the most.

Weatherholt crafted a beautiful, tragic, inspiring, emotional, and heartwarming story that had me hanging on to every page to see what happened. There were times I was laughing (toilet humor – read on), times I was crying (about Kayla missing her mom), and times I was shaking my head (Olivia’s boss). The author used subtle faith tones to convey God’s message – especially of forgiveness, but it was not overwhelming.

Weatherholt addresses grief and how advice worked when aiding children through the process. While well-meaning in some cases, ignoring the grief or missing family member is harder than allowing someone to miss them.

As a result, I was quite torn when it came to Kayla. I felt so bad for her. On one hand, she’d lost her mother; on the other hand, she was being a brat. I do believe – given that it’d been a few years since her mother’s death – the girl could’ve benefitted from therapy. It would’ve given her someone to talk to about her mother, and helped her grieve. It would’ve also helped her with her anger. Olivia did a wonderful job in getting through to the girl with their shared grief of losing a beloved parent.

One big issue I had, is a “slight spoiler”. It revolved around Olivia’s supervisor calling her and texting her while she was on a “sabbatical”. Depending on any work “contract” (union or otherwise) – there is a legal issue as to whether or not Olivia was REQUIRED to keep in contact with her supervisor. If she wasn’t – then the supervisor had NO expectation for Olivia to take her call or text.

Olivia had no return date set (some employers may or may not have that option). Given that Olivia was caring for her grandmother, it is possible she had FMLA leave which is up to 12 weeks of leave (almost three [3] months). Olivia also could’ve gotten it for the stress as well – her occupation and divorce. In most states, employees can use their accrued leave to get paid. As a result of ignoring the texts, Olivia learns her supervisor has booked her on a flight to return due to low staffing, or risk losing her job. If Olivia was under FMLA leave – that was an illegal move on the supervisor’s part. If it was a Leave of Absence (LOA), then a set return date would’ve been noted.

It’s not that I don’t doubt someone would have booked a return flight for an employee, the legality of it is one I’d definitely look into. As far as staffing – Miami is a HUGE city, so I am SURE there were temp agencies and other avenues the supervisor could’ve taken.

As a result, that storyline hit VERY CLOSE to home as my mother worked for 25 years in a county hospital. That place was definitely on the HIGH end of shady. They’d even coerce the union into forgetting certain things that violated the contract (yes, I do have proof). There was also a MASSIVE lawsuit against them regarding interrupted meal breaks and lack of compensation. I almost have to wonder if the author wasn’t taking a “dig” at them 🤣

It did somewhat bother me that Olivia had NO idea what a car show was. The Miami Auto Show is going into its 50th year, and I am SURE someone at the hospital would’ve talked about it. Or, after being asked, why not research it? I’ve been to a few myself, some were when NASCAR was in Las Vegas during the March races. I really had fun test-driving some cars in September 2019 when the MotorTrend Auto Show was held in Las Vegas. First time EVER driving a Ford Mustang. That was a SWEET ride!!

Moving on …

What absolutely got me laughing was the toilet humor. During Kayla and Kyle’s party, Kayla went into the bathroom to hide from a bully. And, Olivia told her “Can you imagine what people what people would think if they heard the lady from Florida was talking to toilets?”. Kayla had a sweet response when agreeing to not hide in there – she claimed it didn’t smell so good. That was absolutely priceless.

I did want to see the look on “Mean Ol’ Missy”’s face when Olivia and Kayla arrived and participated in the Mother/Daughter fashion show. Missy reminded me of Nellie Oleson from Little House on the Prairie. And, what was funny – there is a Nellie who owns a mercantile in this story.

This didn’t slog or plod along, then again, the author didn’t rush it at all. It was perfectly paced, and very hard to put down.

That said …

If this follows pattern, I am eager to read Logan’s story next. I do have a few of Weatherholt’s books on my TBR list. I also need to locate print copies of A Father for Bella and Second Chance Romance. Fans of the author won’t want to miss this one.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I met Jill Weatherholt several years ago through her blog. Throughout that time, she has continually proven herself to be genuine, thoughtful and positive despite life's more difficult moments. These traits are deeply embedded into Jill's stories, where she writes of love, loss, broken dreams and second chances. Her newest release, Their Inseparable Bond, is an excellent example of Jill's work. Her well-developed characters leap off the page and tug at your emotions from the start. This is Jill's seventh Love Inspired novel. If you like gentle, inspirational romances, this is a perfect choice.

[Kay Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

THEIR INSEPARABLE BOND by Jill Weatherholt is the 19th book in the K-9 Companions series. It’s the heart tugging story of Jake Beckett, dog trainer, and Olivia Hart as they work though finding out what’s the best way to help aging Myrna Hart with her decreased vision and whether she can live independently through the use of a service dog like Callie.

Olivia has taken a leave of absence from her fast-paced, hectic life as a doctor in the ER of her big city’s hospital. She’s always felt driven to become a doctor knowing it would have made her father proud. She still mourns his loss and her feeling of failure in not being there for him the day he died. Maybe that’s what’s kept her driven to do more and to work longer hours. In the process, her marriage ended in divorce when her husband announced he had decided he no longer want to have any children, which had always been her dream – having children and the happily ever after family. It’s left her rethinking her life and needing time off, which led her to her going home to her grandmother Myrna - her safety net. Myrna’s always been there for her – at the death of her father, when her mother turned to alcohol neglecting her daughter and later when she had no one. Without her grandmother, she’s fearful of how her life might have turned out. She is also concerned with her grandmother’s age and her declining vision. She’s come back home to convince her to come live with her. Then she can take care of her like she’s always taken care of her – with love.

Jake loves his job. Guess it really is true that if you love what you do that it’s not work. He also loves Myrna. When his wife died giving birth to his child and his daughter died too, he felt his world had fallen apart. He also knew he had a young daughter and a son, twins, that needed his love and attention, but how could he do it all - being both mother and father? That’s when Myrna stepped in. When his life was spiraling, she helped put things in order and keep them all running in their new normal world. The twins had grown to love her just as if she was family just as much as he had. He will do anything and everything he can to help her live the independent life that he knows is Myrna’s great desire. Part of that is doing repairs and alterations to Myrna’s home. Plus, he’s training her a service dog to help her out for when her vision gets worse. Callie had been adopted by a veteran that had planned to be a Volunteer Puppy Raiser going through the Beckett’s Canine Training’s Camp Bow Wow to raise service dogs. When he died of cancer, he had left Callie to Jake in hopes he would train her to be a good match for Myrna. Callie has been a little slow, but he knows with some extra work and time that she will make a great service dog. Myrna’s already becoming attached to this sweet dog and considers Callie as “her” service dog.

When Olivia’s plans for Myrna become known, Jake is determined to show her how Myrna’s great desire to stay in her own home can be achieved while Olivia is determined to take Myrna home with her so she can take care of her and maybe hidden somewhere deep down so that she won’t be alone. In the meantime, Olivia is experiencing all she’s ever wanted – children - by being close to Kayla and Kyle. She feels a strong connection to them since she lost her parent when she was young as well. Olivia even feels drawn to Jake, but he has made it clear he doesn’t want to have any more children and she has the job she’s worked so many years for. Jake feels that any attracted to Olivia as a betrayal to his wife. It’s best to keep one’s distant – isn’t it?

Will Myrna’s love once again envelope Olivia giving her comfort after her divorce and give her life direction? Will Olivia’s willingness to check out the service dog idea give Jake a lean in his direction on where Myrna’s future abode will be? Can Jake make Myrna’s home safe to live in? Is it possible that Bluebell’s small-town charm can win Olivia’s favor? Will Callie ever work through her puppy stage and grasp the ability of becoming a service dog? Can Olivia show Kayla that she’s not responsible for her mother’s death and maybe learn the same lesson herself? Will the twins wish come true or will a desperate call back to work win out in the end? Is it possible for Jake to find true love twice in his lifetime? Did Olivia already lose her chance at her lifelong dream of having children?

THEIR INSEPARABLE BOND is a book your bound to read in one sitting. The characters draw you in with their back stories as well as current happenings. Your heartstrings will be pulled as the twins. resilient as children are, deal with the lose of their mother and move forward. The sweet slow growing romance between Olivia and Jake will have you also hoping for a happily ever after ending. Myrna’s senior citizen’s desire to stay in their own home, bring to the forefront a problem that many elders face daily. Jill Weatherholt writes an incredible story of lost love, working through grief, empathy, romance, and second chances all woven with a thread of faith tying it all together in one sensational story. THEIR INSEPARABLE BOND is most definitely a FIVE STAR book that I highly recommend to everyone! A must read that should be on everyone’s to be read list.

I receive an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heartbreaking and heartwarming story at the same time. The happiness definitely eventually outweighs the sadness, but there are a few tear worthy moments.

Jake Beckett's life was shattered when his wife died giving birth to their third child. His twins, Kayla and Kyle, were the only thing that have kept him going. The one other constant in his life was Myrna. She is everyone's grandmother in town. She has been a calming force for Kayla when she needed a woman's touch, and she has been a godsend for the whole family. Myrna is suffering from macular degeneration. This is where we meet Olivia Hart, a hotshot ER doctor from Miami. Myrna is her grandmother (Gammy). She plans to take Myrna back to Miami with her as she fears for her safety.

Jake owns Camp Bow Wow where he trains service dogs. He is training a golden retriever, Callie, to be Myrna's service dog and making adjustments to her home to make her home safer for her. Jake has to convince Olivia to allow Myrna to stay in her home as she is the stabilization for him and his family.

This was such a sweet story with incredible characters. Loss was a big common denominator for them. Their losses were somewhat different, but the losses largely affected their lives. Olivia's heart was in the right place in wanting to care for Myrna, but she needed to get Gammy's input as well. I felt such pain for Kayla. Every girl needs her mom. At first her behavior appears bratty, but I soon realized that she is acting from a place of deep hurt. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the dog training. Dogs make a story even sweeter. This was one of those books that, even though the story was fictional, left an impression on me. I wanted to reach into the book and hug all of the characters. If you enjoy a sweet romance with endearing characters and a precious puppy as a plus, you will enjoy this book.

Thank you to Harlequin, the author and JustRead Publicity Tours for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sherida Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this absolutely incredible story of trusting God’s plan! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

When emergency room doctor Olivia Hart goes to Bluebell Canyon, Colorado to move her grandmother to the big city, Jake Beckett, widower and single-dad to twins, tries to convince her to let her grandmother live independently with modifications he makes to the older woman’s home plus the additional aid of a service dog. While helping train the new service puppy, Olivia falls in love with Jake and his two kids.

I enjoyed the words of wisdom sprinkled throughout the pages and the realistic lessons of being a Puppy Raiser. The six-year-old twins hit all the emotional buttons of childlike exuberance and sympathy for their situation.

So many sweet moments in this story warmed my heart. The interactions with the children, the touching memories reflected from the past and the tender shared moments of falling in love. The retelling of an engagement proposal was laugh-out-loud charming. I delighted in the small community where everyone cares for each other….celebrating joys together and working through difficulties.

The ending is precious….with a perfect epilogue which brought tears to my eyes. I’m so glad there will be more stories set in the charming town of Bluebell Canyon as we get to know more of the townsfolk….a group of compassionate, faithful and hopeful people….reminding us to trust God’s plan. I highly recommend Their Inseparable Bond by amazing author Jill Weatherholt.

Favorite quotes:

“That’s what family does. We support each other. We give our time and effort to someone other than ourselves.”

“You need to loosen up a bit, dear. Real life is messy. Everything doesn’t have to be neat and organized.”

*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m pleased to offer my honest opinion.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy Christian Romance books and LOVE Inspired Brand is a WONDERFUL series of Books. Their Inseparable Bond by Jill Weatherholt is Book 19 in the K9 Companions series. I have read several books in this series and I have enjoyed them all. I was excited to read this book also!

Jake Beckett is a widowed Single Dad with a set of Twins. He enjoys his job as a Service Dog Trainer. He is current training a puppy named Callie for his friend Myrna. Myrna is the town "Grandma" and Myrna is going blind and will need Callie for her Service Dog to be able to continue to live by herself. Jake is also remodeling her home to make it safer as she loses her eyesight. Myrna's granddaughter, Olivia, isn't confident that Callie can be trained to be a service Dog and has actually come to town to move her Grandmother home with her. Olivia decides to give Jake the chance to train Callie and stays in town to monitor the progress. Olivia begins falling in LOVE with Jake and she is especially smitten by his twins. Will Callie be successfully trained to help Myrna? Will there be a relationship between Jake and Olivia? Will Olivia stay in town indefinetly?

The storyline was so sweet, yet filled with grief. Jake was still grieving his wife who passed away during childbirth as did the baby she was carrying. Olivia is a divorced woman who grieves the fact that her ex-husband never wanted children. She is very career driven due to the grief. I feel that she wanted to take "Gammy" to live with her to have someone to care for since she had no one. I really LOVE how the relationship between Jake and Olivia grew and flourished. Jake and Olivia together worked to help each other through their grief. I really enjoy the fact the the kids took to Olivia and she to the kids. I HIGHLY recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Christian Romance books! FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Carla Bruns · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jake Beckett, a 50-year-old single father to twins, Kyle and Kayla, lost his wife when she was giving birth to their son. After losing their mother, the twins became attached to Myrna, a local grandmother type with macular degeneration, who’s helped them adjust to motherless life. The Bluebell Canyon community has rallied to update Myrna’s home for her disability, while Jake, a service dog trainer, trains a puppy named Callie to be her service dog.

Myrna’s granddaughter, Olivia, an ER doctor from Miami, takes a sabbatical to convince Myrna to move in with her. But Jake, the twins, and the town want Myrna to stay. Olivia agrees to foster Callie during training and hints that, if all goes well, Myrna might remain in Bluebell.

As Olivia spends time in the small town, she reflects on her life. In Miami, she worked non-stop, guilty over her father's death, trying to please his ghost. This need overtook her, causing her to delay having children. Now nearing forty and recently divorced, she wonders if she'll ever have her dream family. In Bluebell, she slows down, connects with Jake and the twins, and starts to see a new way of life. The romance between Jake and Olivia was slow-building and believable. And yes, the epilogue was the best.

The heart of the book was in the characters—the town rallying around Myrna, Jake's desire to care for his children in the best possible way, Olivia’s struggles, and the natural bonds that developed. I especially loved Olivia and Kayla’s relationship. Jake’s caution over Kayla getting attached resonated, but sometimes people just click. This book reminded me that choices have pros and cons, and no path leads to perfect contentment but it is worth trying for.

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘑𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘞𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘷𝘪𝘢 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘚𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘴. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

[Jacqui · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Their Inseparable Bond (Love Inspired 2024), Jill Weatherholt's seventh Love Inspired book, and seventeenth in the K-9 Companion series,  Jake Beckett, a dog trainer for service dogs, struggled through the loss of his wife during the delivery of their third child. He wasn't sure he would make it except for the unwavering support of his adopted grandmother Myrna, his twin children Kyle and Kayla, their loving dog Callie, and the strength given without limit from the neighbors in his small town of Bluebell Colorado. When Myrna's granddaughter, Olivia, comes for a visit, it turns out to be more than that. She wants to take her grandmother back to Florida to live with her where Olivia can better keep an eye on Myrna's deteriorating macular degeneration. Jake resists losing this important person in his life, but more than that, his twins have come to rely on Myrna for all the support they can't get from their mother. Olivia is visiting 'for a while' which gives Jake some time to change her mind. But how can he do that?

There are so many different themes that readers will relate to in this book. Not just raising children or losing a spouse, but the challenges of training a puppy with love and affection. The puppy-training scenes, as Olivia learns how to raise a service dog for her grandmother, made me think of my own puppy training experiences and what I had to do to make that work. No one will read this book without it evoking lots of memories and soon becoming a favorite in their reading library.

[Meagan Myhren-Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Their Inseparable Bond
K-9 Companions
By Jill Weatherholt
Jake Beckett's been raising his twins since he lost his wife. A older family friend Myrna has been a godsend when he needs help with them. When Myrna's granddaughter decides that Myrna's failing eyesight is an issue, Jake is determined to convince her not to take Myrna from her home or her friends.

Olivia Hart, newly divorced, is convinced her grandmother needs to move someplace safer. But she's willing to give a therapy dog-in-training a chance to prove otherwise. And she's even willing to help with Callie's training.

As Olivia works with Jake and his children, she realizes just how much she's sacrificed for her career. A career that is waiting for her back in Florida. But the longer she stays away, she finds herself making connections that just may break her heart when she leaves.

This book is part of the K-9 Companions series, all of which can be read as standalone books. When Olivia makes a connection with Jake's kids, it's different with Kyle and Kayla. Kyle is almost immediately, while with Kayla, it is over the loss of her mother and mean girls. And believe me when I say the mean girl is mean, and at such a young age, it makes me shudder to consider what she'll turn into as she gets older. This book explores priorities and just where we place them and why. And Olivia is at a crossroad in her life with just such a decision before her - family or career.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

[Mae Clair · Rating 5 out of 5]

This heart-warming story is set in a small town in Colorado, a place where everyone knows one another and rallies around their neighbors whenever they need support. The kind of place you want to call home. Into this setting, Weatherholt introduces ER doctor, Olivia, who holds a high-stress job in Miami. She’s arrived to move her grandmother to her condo in the big city. Her grandmother’s eyesight is failing, making it problematic for her to live alone (or so Olivia believes). Naturally “Gammy” doesn’t want to leave the town she loves, and no one wants her to go.

Service dog trainer, Jake--who also does home repairs--undertakes adapting Gammy’s home to make it easier for her to get around. It’s there he meets Olivia. Jake lost his wife two years ago and his raising his young twin children on his own.

The romance between the two leads develops at a believable pace, as does the change in the hearts of many of the characters. The side story of training service dog, “Callie” dovetails with the growing relationship between Jake and Olivia, and Olivia and Jake’s children. Of all the threads in this tightly written novel, I really enjoyed seeing how Olivia’s relationship with Jake’s daughter, Kayla, evolved from animosity (on Kayla’s part) into something beautiful.

This is a feel-good book that would make a fantastic movie for the Hallmark channel. From the smalltown setting to Olivia’s “fish out of water” immersion, charming characters, and family interactions, you can’t stop flipping pages. I was riveted from the beginning and devoured the entire story in one day!

[Priscilla Bettis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Their Inseparable Bond is a sweet romance that explores grief, guilt, and the bonds we form between grandparent and grandchild, parent and child, and lovers. The story takes place in the charming small town of Bluebell, Colorado.

Jake is a widower with six-year-old twins, Kyle and Kayla. The kids were my favorite part of the story. They miss their mother, and I wondered if they’d ever allow themselves to love another mom-like figure. Olivia is a physician from Miami. She’s only in Bluebell to evaluate her aging grandmother. Does grandma need to move to Miami where Olivia can keep an eye on her? Grandma does NOT want to move.

I mustn’t forget the dogs. Jake and his brother run a puppy training school for future assistant dogs, a dog like Olivia’s grandmother will need. Callie is proving to be a difficult puppy to train, but Kyle and Jake are pretty good with her, so things are looking up. Things are looking up at least in the beginning of the story; I won’t say how it turns out for the dog because I don’t want to spoil anything.

The characters are fantastic, and I grew attached to them. I worried when they worried. I was sad when they were sad. It was impossible to stop reading from about a third of the way in until the end because I wanted to know if they’d be okay. Olivia and the kids had frank discussions about God and prayers, so that gave me hope.

The ending had me crying. It was perfect.

A five-star inspirational romance!

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Their Inseparable Bond is an endearing and uplifting story about love and loss, broken dreams and second chances, and how picking up the pieces and moving forward can possibly lead to everything you desire and more.

Jake and his children are dealing with the loss of their matriarch while Olivia is also dealing with personal grief of her own. Together, as their sweet relationship grows, they work through their emotions while also strengthening their bond not only with one another but with Jake’s twins, Kayla and Kyle, as well. Their story shows the importance of family and support, and that this too shall pass and could open the door to something even more amazing than you could imagine.

The characters are what really won me over with this sweet, inspirational romance. I am a sucker for adorable children, but when you add an adorable dog I practically swoon. All of the characters have a warmth and realness to them, which really endeared me to this story, and I loved being able to glimpse into their world for a moment. This was a much-needed escape for me and the perfect weekend read. My heartstrings were tugged in the best way possible and I cannot recommend this sweet read enough.

*I have reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Heather Pickett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so happy to have read Their Inseparable Bond by Jill Weatherholt! I love these K-9 Companions books by Love Inspired, and Jill's entry is a winner!
Widower Jake Beckett is a father to young twins. Since his wife's death, septuagenarian Myrna Hart has been a lifeline and refuge for Jake and his children. He'd do anything for Myrna, including training up a service dog (his profession) to aid Myrna as her eyesight worsens.
Myrna's granddaughter, Dr. Olivia Hart, is in town for a visit...and more. She wants to convince her Gammy to go back to Florida with her, to live with her and be cared for. She's not convinced a service dog is the answer.
But she reluctantly agrees to give puppy Callie as chance, and even becomes Callie's Puppy Raiser, working alongside Jake to train Callie.
As they work together and grow closer, can Jake convince Olivia that Colorado is the only home for Myrna, and maybe now for Olivia?
You know I love when a book has an epilogue, and this one is fantastic! Settle in and read Their Inseparable Bond. You'll be glad you did!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.

[Jacquie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two broken hearts are linked through a matchmaking grandmother and a pair of irresistible twins.

After the loss of his beloved wife during childbirth, Jake turns to his career training service dogs to ease the pain and give him the strength to care for his twins, Kayla and Kyle. With the support of the community and senior-Myrna-who the children love, he's finding a path through his family's grief. Then, Myrna's beautiful granddaughter arrives with the intention of moving her grandmother to Florida, and the war begins.
Olivia is still reeling from her husband's decision to end their marriage and the demands of her profession as an E.R. doctor. She doesn't need advice on how to care for her grandmother's failing eyesight from a stranger, even if he is handsome and has two adorable children. So how does he manage to trick/convince her to stay for a while and help him train a rambunctious puppy to become her grandmother's service dog? And why do the angry Kayla and adorable Kyle tug so hard on her heartstrings?
This is a sweet second-chance love story, but more than that, it's a lesson in faith and trust in God and his infinite grace.

[Shilo Goodson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very enjoyable book. I liked the relationship between our two main characters, Jake and Olivia. They both fight their feelings for most of the story, not wanting to get hurt. It's definitely a cute but at times a bit cheesy book.

This is a clean novel. There's no swearing, sexual content, or violence. It's something that is appropriate for readers of all ages. It does discuss the death of a parent, the death of a child, and the deteriorating health of an older individual. This is also an age-gap romance. It's only about 14 years, but if that age gap bothers you, you might want to pass on this book.

Overall, this is a 4.5-star book. My only real complaint is that I want to understand more about Jake's relationship with his first wife (who died). It appears they were high school sweethearts, but they were in the early to mid-40s before they started having children. Was that planned? Did they struggle to have children? I wanted this explained because they seem like they are very family-oriented people, so it feels like they'd want to have children right away.

I got a free ARC from BookSirens, and I am leaving a voluntary review.

[Rachel DeVaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved getting to know Myrna, granddaughter Callie, and neighbor Jake and his twins in this Love Inspired Inspirational story.

The small town of Bluebell Colorado where Myrna and Jake live sounded delightful and definitely a town that I would love to visit! I liked reading about the process of training service dogs and how Jake matches up dogs with their potential owners to help them with their disabilities.

It was heartbreaking to read about the twins struggle with losing their mom at an early age and I liked how the town and Myrna rallied and supported the small family. It was so refreshing to read how neighbors can care and help each other no matter what!

I really enjoyed this easy to read, sweet K-9 companion story! My 13 year old also enjoyed reading it as well. The story line was interesting and the characters were relatable and likeable! I can’t wait to read more “Bluebell Canyon” stories by this author.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.

[D.L. Finn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia, a divorced ER doctor from Miami, comes to small-town Bluebell, CO to bring her grandmother, Myrna, to live with her. The problem is that even with her deteriorating eyesight, Myrna doesn’t want to leave her home and friends. Olivia meets Myrna’s friends, including the widower Jake and his twins, Kyle and Kayla. Jake trains service dogs and has a puppy Callie, who he thinks would be a good fit for family friend Myrna, to help her stay home. Olivia must decide if the untrained pup could be an option, or if she should stick to the plan and insist her grandmother leave. In the mix is Olivia’s developing friendship with Jake and his children and a bit of matchmaking. I love not only the budding possible romance between Olivia and Jake but also the relationship that develops between Olivia and the children and Callie. A heartwarming Christian story that shows how faith mixed with forgiveness can offer a glimpse of that second chance. A quick uplifting read that I can easily recommend.

[Rosemarie Grainer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet small town Christian romance

Olivia has come to a small town in Colorado to check on her Gammy. Jake has been helping her grandma out as much as he can, including training a service dog to help with her macular degeneration. His twins Kayla Kyle love Gammy as their own as she had taken them all in when their mother died. But Olivia is determined to take Gammy back to Miami with her. She decides to try and help train the puppy Callie to become her Gammy's service dog, before making any major decisions. Then she starts getting closer to Jake and his family. What is the right thing to do?

The pace is engrossing and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character centered storyline that doesn't even have kissing, let alone steam. The characters are vivid and engaging. The Christian ideals are a part of the story without being preachy. Enjoy reading about training a puppy to become a service dog, and a small town.