Rebuilding His Trust: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance – A Captivating Contemporary Story of Healing a Closed-Off Heart

by Jenna Mindel

Their surprising connection
could be the key to a second chance.

Jace Moore has been afraid to love since losing his parents as a teen. But when he meets equine therapist Meredith Lewis and her horse Bella, something shifts inside him. Soon, constructing her indoor riding arena turns into volunteering with her therapy program just to spend more time with them. Initially wary of Jace’s charming ways, Meredith can’t deny her attraction to the off-limits builder, especially when he shows such kindness to one of her young clients. But as sessions with the animals—and Meredith—begin to heal Jace’s closed-off heart, can he convince her that love is worth the risk?

From Love  Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Genres: Romance

272 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published January 27, 2026

About the author

I live in Northern Lower Michigan with my husband and our three adorable dogs. I enjoy the Great Lakes, anything outdoors, and a really strong cup of coffee.
My love of fairy tales as a kid paved the way for me to create my own happily-ever-after stories. My passion grew in writing flawed characters who realize their need to trust God before they can trust each other.

I love to hear from readers and can be reached through my website at www.jennamindel.com.

Reviews

[Christian Shelves · Rating 4 out of 5]

I find it pretty coincidental that the title of this book is about rebuilding his trust when I can also see how it's about rebuilding her trust. Meredith Lewis is a therapist who helps children work through their issues through exposure to horses; however, she has her own past to grapple with as well. I appreciate that she is an empathetic listener who gives back to others after going through some traumatic experiences on her own. Her selflessness is inspiring and is exactly what Jace Moore needs after he becomes the builder for Meredith's indoor riding arena. In seeing them interact with each other, it's gratifying to see the characters ask for help and learn to lean on others.

Jenna Mindel does a great job of showing readers what it feels like to be trapped by our former labels and behaviours after repenting of them. The examples provided of forgiveness, moving forward, and trusting God are reminders that we don't have to let the past define us. Seeing Jace and Meredith confront their fears and doubts by turning to God is pivotal to their story and a solid foundation for their friendship to blossom into more. If you love horses and are looking for a sweet romance that involves spiritual growth and a community that rallies together to support a grand opening, Rebuilding His Trust offers a gentle journey to inner reflection for readers.

Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...

Many thanks to Harlequin Books and NetGalley for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was thoroughly entertaining to read, however, it wasn't because it was a particularly well thought out or good book. It was confusing, poorly written and researched, and filled with interactions that were so ridiculous I couldn't help but laugh at them. The author frequently changes tenses mid-sentence, and even though this company has editors, I can't imagine they spend that much time editing because there are at least a dozen punctuation and spelling errors in the first three chapters alone. I expected more from this author. My google deep dive (by which I mean literally the first link on google) informed me she has been writing and publishing books like this for at least 10 years.
Although this author mentioned having horse friends and, presumably, has some prior experience with horses, her knowledge and description of horses and their care was questionable. One horse was described as "blonde" by the love interest as well as the self-proclaimed horse expert even though that isn't even remotely close to the proper terminology. Her purebred quarter horse is absolutely massive, and both characters frequently describe leading horses by their "harnesses" (I am assuming that the author meant either a bridle or halter. She uses both interchangeably, and usually in the wrong context). After Meredith dishes out all of her clients' personal and private information, Jace decides to volunteer at the therapy barn to get closer to Meredith. This seems to entail lingering while Tommy--a VULNERABLE and TRAUMATIZED child--shares his deepest, darkest trauma while Jace brushes a horse with the wrong brush and judges him silently. (Side note: I think the only brush the author knows is a curry comb. They brush their entire horse with a curry comb and ONLY a curry comb which I can imagine is painful) Everyone seems to be obsessed with Jace; Meredith and Tommy's mom both think he's the hottest man to have ever walked the earth, Tommy is described as "craving" his "male validation", and for some reason, there's a weird amount of sexual tension between Jace and Bella, a horse that can evidently read minds, bond with "anyone" at the drop of a hat but only ever seems to bond with him, and fundamentally understands Jace's mommy issues even though she is a horse.
I can only assume that Meredith beats her horses. Also, it is unclear whether or not she actually feeds them. In order to comfort Tommy, she mentions that her horses assume he is going to hurt them and are more afraid of him than he is of them. This is a loaded statement.
"Don't worry, small, scared child! This--again, massive--quarter horse is terrified and may trample you!" is a great way to comfort a child I'm sure. #Justice4Tommy
By the way, Jace is an expert horseback rider the second time he ever gets on a horse and it's literally only because he has a "special bond" with it. I think the author misspelled plot device.
The question I asked continuously throughout this book is why her horses were so frightened of people, and why, at every opportunity, she mentioned they were scared of being seriously hurt. The only horses that have ever actively run away from me are horses that had been severely abused.
Every time Meredith pulls into her driveway and sees Jace's car, (which is every time she pulls into her driveway throughout the duration of this book) she describes it the exact same way. There is also some casual fatphobia in this book? Jace can eat however much he wants, of course, he's hot. But Meredith literally cannot eat more than half of ONE sandwich at a time because she's just too UwU tiny. She's also super skinny (and fit of course despite consuming 4 calories a day). Jace feels deep shame for sleeping around in his past because he feels it's deeply wrong, which isn't a super surprising thing to see. The book was written by a Christian author to support Christian values. I wish that was the justification though. The actual reasoning is that his dead parents would be sad??? But there isn't a reason they would be sad. Not even disappointed. Just sad.
I do not have the time or energy to get into all the things wrong with how the arena, the driving force for this plot, was designed. Why did we need to talk about the design in the bedroom???
In conclusion, I'm pretty sure Jace only got with Meredith so he could sleep with the horses. That is most certainly what happened the SECOND this book wrapped. Which wasn't actually that long, by the way, I think this entire plot spanned like 6 days.
This is a great read if you want something super easy and lighthearted that isn't super serious. The problem arises when it tries to tackle heavy themes and just doesn't have the characters and plot to say anything of substance about grief or love. Also, please brush a horse before you write a book where they are the two things driving the plot forward. Please.

[Kay Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

REBUILDING HIS TRUST by Jenna Mindel is the magnificent story of Meredith Lewis, counselor and equine therapist at her newly established RR Equine Therapy, and Jace Moore, who along with his two brothers own Three Sons Construction. Each come with past emotional baggage, but while working together they just might find help and closure within each other.

Meredith’s growing up years weren’t easy. Her parents finally divorced while she was a young teenager. She carried the perception that she was responsible for their breakup. Afterwards, she felt unwanted and that she didn’t fit in anywhere. Her one comfort and constant in her life had been her horse, Bella. Meredith finally went into the field of counseling, much to her mother’s dismay. After her parent’s disastrous marriage and after having her heart broken, she’s determined to rely on no one and to keep her heart sheltered from thoughts of romance. With a small inheritance and a successful application for a grant, she’s working hard to get an indoor arena built to further RR Equine Therapy, a place she finally feels she belongs and is determined to make it successful. Three Sons Construction is her last hope of making her dreams come true. On their first meeting and seeing Jace with Bella and Pete, it’s hard for her to connect his reputation to the man she sees before her. Meredith can tell there’s an immediate connection between Jace and Bella. When Jace asks if she might council him, she has to decline due to their working connection. There’s no way she will do anything that might be perceived as professionally inappropriate and jeopardize her dream.

Jace’s reputation follows him, but one he’s determined to change. After his parents died in a snowmobile accident, he was at loose ends, which led him to dating multiple women to escape. While checking out RR Equine for a possible contract for their company, he’s found the first place that seems to bring him peace – through a horse no less. While refusing to council him, Meredith agreed to let him observe in a way and to help with the horses. Given the contract and seeing Meredith daily, his attraction for this woman grows, both in her natural beauty and her actions, but he knows he has to stay professional as long as they have a working contract.

REBUILDING HIS TRUST is a magnificent, captivating story showing how sorrow and hardships can be turned around by letting go of preconceived notions and allowing faith and love into one’s heart. Jenna Mindel gives us a story of daring to dream, overcoming, determination, forgiveness, second chances, friendship, work ethics, opening up to new possibilities, romance and wraps it all in a wonderful thread of faith. REBUILDING HIS TRUST is absolutely FIVE-STAR reading that I highly recommend to everyone!

I received a copy of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#RebuildingHisTrust #JennaMindel #LoveInspired #InspirationalRomance

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Rebuilding His Trust" is a Christian romance. I assumed the author knew something about horses, or would at least have an actual equine therapist (or riding instructor, for that matter) read through it to correct any errors. However, the author didn't spell "canter" correctly. Seemed to think "harness" referred to a halter or a bridle--she used it in place of both--when it's neither. Had Meredith describe one of her horses as blond (not what a horse person would use for a horse's color). Had the characters riding Western style (neck reining and a horn on the saddle) but had them post (which is typically only done in English-style riding). And not just posting when the horse was trotting, either, but at a walk and canter. And so on. Meredith had no credibility as a equine therapist as she got so many things incorrect. I read an ARC, so hopefully these errors will be fixed in the final version.

Anyway, Meredith's dad cheated on her mother, and they got divorced when she was young. Her mother told Meredith that a handsome man like Jace would never stay true to her, and Meredith already believed that her red hair and freckles made her ugly. Jace lost his parents when he was young, so he had trouble committing to relationships due to his fear of losing someone he loved. He's come to Christ, accepted God's forgiveness, and is trying to do things right now rather than casually dating around. But Meredith refused to believe he'd stay true to her, let alone find her beautiful (which he does).

Frankly, Jace fell in love with Meredith's horses while building her riding arena. He seemed to credit her with helping him, but she refused to be his therapist. There was a lot of 'I'm not interested in him, but I can't keep my eyes off his lips' and repeatedly stating 'we can't have a relationship because you're building my area and it'd also put my professional reputation at risk' but when he kissed her and then apologized, she's all 'Why? You must secretly not like me after all!' Sigh. It also annoyed me that Jace would fix things around her house when she said she was okay with them as they were. It just seemed controlling and disrespectful, though she liked it.

At least Jace was very supportive of Meredith's business and had a knack for showing up when needed. There was no sex or bad language.

I received a free ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Happily Ever After Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance

Rebuilding His Trust is a delightfully engaging standalone title (though I hope this turns into a series) that introduces us to Meredith, Jace, and her very intelligent and perceptive therapy horse, Bella. After a family situation when she was younger, Meredith has closed herself off from romantic encounters; the guilt she unnecessarily carries over the breakup of her parents’ marriage has convinced her that life is better when one guards one’s heart closely. After his parents’ deaths, Jace went a bit off the rails, engaging in a dating spree that was quite unlike him. Spiraling from the loss of his parents, he made choices that he regrets and deeply wants to address his past and change his future. We have two deeply wounded souls who will force themselves to keep a professional distance between them when it’s obvious that there is something precious, something deeper developing between them.

I enjoyed Rebuilding His Trust so much. Although they are rebuilding her trust just as much as their story reveals. I admire a man who realizes he needs help, especially when he never thought that he could heal from his past… but Bella is proving that forgiveness (even self-forgiveness) is possible for anyone. Frankly, I adored Bella. Yes, she’s a horse, but a vital part of this story and both Meredith’s and Jace’s recovery from their pasts. Their story is somewhat of a slow burn as they move through the cycles of professionals, friends, and perhaps something more if they both can trust and take a few risks with their hearts. This romance is well-written, faith-based, emotional, and engaging on so many levels. Watching this couple work through the things in their pasts that kept them from finding happiness was an emotional journey. If this sounds like your kind of romance, then you’d enjoy Meredith and Jace’s (and Bella’s) story. I know I certainly did.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebuilding His Trust by Jenna Mindel

An Uplifting Inspirational Romance (Love Inspired)
Their surprising connection
could be the key to a second chance.

Jace Moore has been afraid to love since losing his parents as a teen. But when he meets equine therapist Meredith Lewis and her horse Bella, something shifts inside him. Soon, constructing her indoor riding arena turns into volunteering with her therapy program just to spend more time with them. Initially wary of Jace’s charming ways, Meredith can’t deny her attraction to the off-limits builder, especially when he shows such kindness to one of her young clients. But as sessions with the animals—and Meredith—begin to heal Jace’s closed-off heart, can he convince her that love is worth the risk?
My favorite quote is
Despite her reservations about the man who’d come to give her an estimate, she’d been told his company was good. Hopefully, Three Sons Construction could do what she needed done, and soon. Meredith had spent the better part of her summer looking for a contractor and had come up empty-handed. She had the funds and a folder full of ideas for an indoor riding arena with no one willing or able to do the work.
I recommend reading this book.
Rebuilding His Trust by Jenna Mindel is a 5-star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jenna Mindel.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

[Asheley T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I chose to read this one because of the horses on the cover, and I loved the way horses were such a huge part of the story. Meredith is an equine therapist who specializes in young people with emotional or mental challenges, and she is looking to grow her business. She hires Jace to expand her barn by building an indoor arena. The two fall for one another while also working thru residual issues they have with love and trust. A friendship starts with Jace helping Meredith feed and groom her horses in the evening after he finishes with his daytime construction work, and grows to more as he accompanies Meredith on trail rides and with volunteering during therapy sessions. Both have eyes for the other one, but both realize the conflicts of interest present while the indoor arena is under contract. I liked watching them internally weigh the pros and cons of having a relationship while they were still working. It made the time when they finally decided to go for it that much sweeter.

I really love when animals have a large place in romances, and I think the horses are the most fun part of the story. My only quibble is that sometimes the dialogue between Meredith and Jace was so polished that it sort of felt forced.

I’m not sure if this is part of another series or if it is a standalone. But there is definitely room to continue stories with Meredith’s best friend Liza and Jace’s brothers John and Jeremy.

Many thanks to the publisher for providing an early copy to me thru NetGalley in exchange for a review. These are my own thoughts. Thank you, Love Inspired!

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartwarming story of hope, horses, and healing.

Contractor Jace Moore has been dealing with fears about love since losing his parents in his youth. He is building the new riding arena for equine therapist Meredith Lewis, and she gives him the opportunity to ride and volunteer at her center.

A heartwarming tale, with great characters and an engaging plot. I liked that Jace wants to make a change in his life and be more intentional about how he is living. Meredith is passionate and dedicated to her job, and enjoys seeing Jace bond with her horse, Bella, as well as find the answers he is looking for.

Overall, a really enjoyable read, with characters that you can cheer for throughout. Strong threads of faith. Definitely Recommend!


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Jennifer Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I wasn't entirely sure I would enjoy this book when I first started it, however, I ended up finishing it in a day because I couldn't put it down. I love how this author writes from a place so many seems to be in. A place of hurt, scared to trust again, and trying to pretend like everything is ok.

I love how the author used a horse named Bella who immediately sensed the troubled soul Jace was. Watching them build a friendship between them was beautiful. While also watching Meredith build something to help other people facing the same issues, especially children.

You won't be sorry you read this!!

[Rosemarie Grainer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet story

Meredith is looking for a construction company to build an indoor arena for her equine therapy program. Jace is there to see if his company Three Sons Construction is able to build her arena. Then he meets and bonds with one of her horses. They become friends, but both are very wary of commitments. Will they be able to get beyond their fears? Read this to see what happens!

The pace is engrossing and the tone is uncertain with a character centered storyline with a few kisses only. The characters are well drawn and endearing. The Christian ideals are woven into the story. I hope that Jace's 2 brothers will get their own stories. Enjoy this sweet story.

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rebuilding His Trust is the story of both Meredith & Jace learning to trust again after past heartache and sadness. Honestly, I feel the storyline had more to do with her learning to trust than him. I loved the use of equine therapy. It has so many benefits!
It was a little back and forth with the characters, so we didnt get to see the romance build as much as I think a lot of readers would like. But overall, it's a cute story!

[Tami Willard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can be read as a standalone, but I'm hoping it's part of an interconnected series with some of the characters overlapping.
Both still holding on to the traumatic losses they suffered while kids.
Opposite ways of coping... He refused to commit to a relationship and kept everything superficial. She refused to even start a potential relationship
Forbidden romance
Best friend's ex
Ethical concerns
Learning to let go and let God

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jace and Meredith's story is a sweet, heartwarming story that is full of emotions. This book was so good I hated to see it end.
I received a complimentary copy from Harlequin - Romance via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Cheryl Bledsoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Book. Really enjoyed the story line

[Debbie Ballard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved reading the inspirational and uplifting romance story. As Jace gets to know Meredith better, he wants to get over the death of his parents and be the man God wants him to be. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written full of captivating characters, and a must read riveting love story.

[Michelle Rhoden · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s been a while since I have read a book with therapy horses in it and the author did an excellent job with keeping me engaged. I highly recommend you look for this when it is released on January 27, 2026. It is part of the Harlequin Love Inspired Series.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley publisher. All words are my own.