Bound by Duty

Military K-9 Unit #2

by Valerie Hansen

Assignment: Single Mom Surveillance

The Military K-9 Unit series continues

Her serial killer brother’s escaped—and it’s single mom Zoe Sullivan who’s under suspicion! Sgt. Linc Colson trusts two things: his instincts and his Rottweiler K-9 partner, Star—and certainly not the pretty face he’s assigned to monitor. He’s done everything to keep her from getting under his skin—now he must stop those who want to put her six feet under.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romance, Suspense, Military Fiction, Mystery, Christian, Love Inspired Suspense

224 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2018

About the author

Valerie Hansen is the pen name of Valerie Whisenand.

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Although I have been a published author since the mid 1980s, I have been writing women's Christian fiction almost exclusively since 1999.

There is a longer, more detailed bio on my website so there's no need for me to repeat all that here. Right now, I write for all three Love Inspired lines, Romance, Suspense and Historical. I'm delighted to have been included that broadly and besides, it keeps me so busy that I stay out of trouble. Well, mostly.

You'll find me on the LI Historical blog as well as other LI features. If I try to do much more I won't have time to write my books!

Reviews

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woohoo -- the second book in the Military K-9 Unit series continues the desperate hunt for a serial killer and includes a mystery unique to this story. These books can be read as standalones despite the over-arcing suspense thread that will play out over the course of the series. Hansen did a great job of picking things up where events in Mission to Protect left off but in such a way that it would be easy for someone who hasn't read that first book to comfortably read this one. No small feat when you consider the number of characters (including K-9s) we need to keep track of. Not to mention the serial killer on the loose!

Can you imagine having a brother capable of murder? And if that isn't awful enough -- to have people think you could actually be aiding and abetting him? That's the impossible predicament Zoe finds herself in. She's hurt and angry -- a fiery dynamo who isn't afraid to stand up for herself...and she's had to do that a lot lately. Especially where her unwanted 'shadow' is concerned. Linc may only be following orders but she's had enough of his not-so-covert surveillance and we get to enjoy the fireworks!

As far as Linc's concerned, Zoe's guilty until proven innocent - he's suspicious like that. And he's a bit of a grump. He might have his reasons but there were still times I wanted to slap him upside the head. :) Especially since his K-9 partner, Star, is a Zoe fan from the get go and we all know that dogs are the best judges of character. But while Linc trusts his four-footed partner in everything else, he seems oddly reluctant to give Zoe the benefit of the doubt.

But she makes it hard to stay aloof especially when it appears that someone has drawn a target on her back. Strange turns to creepy and then downright dangerous as Linc and Zoe (and Star the K-9 Rock Star) race to find answers before Zoe ends up dead!

An intriguing, fast-paced romantic suspense that delivers an edge-of-your-seat read.

Book provided courtesy of Love Inspired.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Bound by Duty is the second book in the Military K-9 Unit series, and even though I haven't read the first book, I enjoyed the story. There was a ton of danger in the book and I found that riveting. I liked the romance and how it progressed...the ending was sweet.

I did think that there were a few questions left unanswered in the end, but it was still a good ending. I liked how the mystery kept me guessing and it was kind of creepy at times.

All in all, an enjoyable read. If you like romantic suspense, you will probably enjoy it as well.

*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*

[Kasia (kasikowykurz) · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️

Hm. Dobra, po pierwszym tomie już się przyzwyczaiłam, ale wciąż kompletnie nie wierzę w te romanse i jak dla mnie w ogóle mogłoby ich nie być. Słucham ich dla piesków i dla jako takiego wątku kryminalnego. Są całkiem spoko, łatwe językowo, ale to wciąż takie czytadła. Odpoczywam przy nich, szukając czegoś lepszego.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute inspirational romance. The characters are likeable enough, but the hero of the book is Star, the K-9 assigned to help provide surveillance for a single mom. The suspense in the story is provided more by the lead characters not admitting their attraction for each other until the very end of the story than it is by her alleged need for protection.

[Loraine Nunley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story. Single mom Zoe is under suspicion because of her brother’s sins. How difficult that must be, to stand tall in your innocence when the world believes you to be guilty. The tension between Zoe and Linc is good. I liked the addition of a lovable little boy and a dedicated K-9 dog. I loved Zoe’s depth of character which showed in her love for her son and in her concern for Linc and his dog even when they weren’t on her side.

I received this book complimentary as a participant of the Love Inspired Blog Tour. I was not required to give a positive review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are my own.

[⚜️XAR the Bookwyrm · Rating 3 out of 5]

I picked this book to fill an Air Force requirement for a challenge without realizing that it was part of a larger series. That being said, the author did a great job of not alluding to the previous books in the series so that the reader wouldn't feel lost. However, the book wound up moving at a snail's pace!

I couldn't believe in the chemistry between Zoe and Linc, because it kept having an on again, off again quality. I get that they were resisting because of the investigation and duty, but it didn't make for engaging reading! I wound up being bored with most of the plot!

I did like the idea of a serial killer coming from the military, as I thought there were supposed to be rigorous tests to weed out that kind of thing in place during the enlistment process. I thought the premise unique enough to save it from a lower rating.

I doubt I will continue the series, as it seems to be quite drawn out.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thoughts: BOUND BY DUTY is a great romantic suspense set on an Air Force base. They do use a lot of terminology that I wasn't familiar with not being an airman (or ex-military) but I could figure it out. This is obviously part of a K-9 series as other dogs and handlers are mentioned and I'm guessing they will show up in other books in the series.



I enjoyed getting to know the dog, Star, the handler, Linc, and Zoe -- I felt kind of sorry for her assigned a guard because her half-brother is a murderer so therefore she is suspect, but it was good because clearly someone was after her. I also liked her sweet little boy, Freddie.



I had a suspicion "who-dun-it" but not why. And I was partially right on the "who". I had to keep ready to the end to find out why.



If you like romantic suspense, you will love BOUND BY DUTY. Other books in the series are:



Mission to Protect - Terri Reed

BOUND BY DUTY - Valerie Hansen

Top Secret Target - Dana Mentink

Standing Fast - Maggie K. Black

Rescue Operation - Lenora Worth

Explosive Force - Lynette Eason

Battle Tested - Laura Scott

Valiant Defender - Shirlee McCoy

Military K-9 Christmas - Valerie Hansen and Laura Scott



I was given a copy of BOUND BY DUTY free. All opinions are my own.

[JaneReads · Rating 2 out of 5]

I struggled with the pacing and flow of this story. The first scene made me wonder what was going on, but as I got further into it, I felt like I was missing quite a bit of background info. Now this is book two of a series, so that's on me as I haven't read book one. However, nowhere on the cover (front or back) does it say it's book 2. In regards to the storyline, I found it difficult to follow the timeline of events. I am unsure how many days actually take place over the course of the story. At times, I believed it was only a few days, but then other things were referenced that made me wonder if it was more than that. I did not like how everyone on base assumed Zoe was guilty by association. It seemed like things were happening that we didn't see. The romance itself felt way too rushed. They went from being practically enemies to a lifelong relationship in what felt like a matter of days. Due to Zoe past relationship betrayal and the fact that she has a young kid, this felt uncharacteristic for her based on how her character is introduced at the beginning. Everything happened within a week or days. While Zoe's troubles are resolved, there is still another storyline going on that I assume will continue until the next book.

[Sheila Samuelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

First time reading one of Valerie's books and I loved it!! I'm glad Linc and Zoe had a happy ending!!

Both their lives were very tough!! I will definitely be reading more Love Inspired Suspense books in the future!!

[Brian Tooley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book in this series. I love reading these books.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bound by Duty is yet another action packed read by Valerie Hansen. It is the second installment from her Military K-9 Unit series and it did not disappoint. I really enjoyed it. The mystery and suspense kept me on the edge of my seat that kept me turning the pages. I could not put it down until I read it all in one sitting.

I give Bound by Duty a well deserved five stars. I hope to read the next one in the series in the future.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. The one thing I love about the Love Inspired Suspense Series is it always starts out action packed and never lets up. I love the K-9 series they are always so action packed. The characters are well written, loved the tension and the chemistry between Linc and Zoe. The dog sounds like a great partner. I hope to read more from this author.



I received a copy of this book through Litfuse and the Publisher --- all thoughts are my own.

[Elaine. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the whole story and the characters. I especially like stories with children and animals especially dogs as I'm a dog lover.

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read a number of Love Inspired books over the years, and enjoyed each very much. I feel like the Love Inspired series is the Hallmark-Channel equivalent of Christian fiction: you know pretty much what to expect in each book. Clean, romance, readable in under a couple hours, occasional suspense, and a happy ending! (Which I appreciated this weekend after watching Avengers: Infinity War -- I needed a happy ending.)

Valerie Hansen is a new-to-me author, and I liked her approach to both the plot and characters in Bound by Duty. Zoe struggled to avoid being labeled by association (who wouldn't, with a serial killer for a sibling?!) -- something I hadn't much thought about previously. What must family members go through when their relatives do bad things? Yeesh!

I chuckled a bit upon finding out Linc's full name (Lincoln); my mind immediately jumped to Agents of Shield. (Because, yes, I am that person that relates everything to AoS. #sorrynotsorry) His interactions with Zoe's son are absolutely adorable, too; I dare you not to swoon by the end.

Bound by Duty takes place mostly on a Colorado air-force base, and I learned quite a bit about on-base life and operations.

While not perhaps my most favorite Love Inspired book (that honor goes to any by Camy Tang), I still enjoyed Bound by Duty and would re-read again happily.

I received a free copy of the ebook from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Veronica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this exciting suspenseful story and the mystery element there was to it, too. Strange things have been happening to Zoe and it's not clear if her brother's behind it or someone else entirely. There was some investigation in the story, which I like, along with the action and sweet romantic elements, of course. Zoe and Linc have two good reasons not to fall in love, they've both been burned in love before, so they fight their attraction for each other, and they're working together and their bosses wouldn't like it. They're continually thrown together for the case, though, and he comes to be the only one she's sure she can trust. Her little boy was very cute and Star was great. I love animals in stories; they bring such a great presence and it was especially fascinating to learn more about a military K-9 and how they operate. There's some talk of faith as Zoe is a strong Christian and Linc has turned his back on God after feeling like prayers weren't answered. I thought the ending seemed a bit rushed; Linc never seemed to confide in Zoe about past trauma and they didn't really discuss his newfound faith. This story mostly worked well as a stand-alone, however, there were a few things mentioned that must have happened in book one. I'd recommend it if you like suspenseful stories!

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated. This is my honest opinion.

[Glenda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Bound by Duty. This is the second book in the continuity series, Military K-9 Unit. I really enjoy Valerie's work, this is a great read. This book is well written, fast paced, and action packed. The story is filled with faith. You're going to love this book.

Staff Sergeant Zoe Sullivan is a widow with a small son. She worked hard to get to be a trainer of pilots. She loves the Air Force. She is also the half sister of Boyd Sullivan the Red Rose Killer. She is under suspicion for helping her brother and the Air Force has put her on suspension until she is cleared. She is watched all the time. Strange things were happening; is she being set up by her brother or is she going crazy? Now someone is trying to kill her, endangering her child.

Security Forces Tech Sergeant Linc Colson and his partner, Star are assigned to watch Zoe and her son. He follows her everywhere but something is going on. She doesn't make any contact with her brother but someone is out there trying to make her look confused. Linc is determined to watch her and not get involved but soon finds he believes her and is losing his heart.

A journey of two brokenhearted souls struggling to keep out of the reach of vengeance. God has a plan for these two, a good plan and not for evil. God has a plan for you too. A plan for a hope and a future. Give Him your heart and watch Him move in your mess.

[Ashley Snider · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a military K-9 unit series book. I did not read the first one however this was an easy follow. The book was full of suspense and kept me hooked until the end. I was right on who was 1 of the involved parties but surprised at the other.

I felt bad that Zoe was assigned to be followed just. Cause her brother was known and the Red ROse Killer. (RRK) After knowing some of the things that her ex-husband did,
You feel for her and want her to be innocent and not protecting her brother.

You easily fall In love with Zoe’s son, Freddie. He is your average three year old that can bring a grown man to his knees. His love towards the characters in the book pull on your heart strings. However you want to read more and see what happens his future.

The author did a great job portraying the relationship between K-9 Star and her handler, Linc. I also found the training the dogs go through interesting. It’s hot to in-depth but helps you to become more aware of what the dogs and their human partners go through and how them are a team with one another.

I didn’t like the abruptness with which the story ended. I feel like the author cheated me out of an ending with Zoe and Linc and that you may or may not see glimpses of them in future books. The ending was abrupt and not what I was expecting. This is an enjoyable, fun, and easy ready. Looking forward to reading more in the series.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Bound by Duty" is a Christian romantic suspense. It's the 2nd book in the series, but it works as a standalone. Zoe's brother is a serial killer, escaped and threatening women on base. Military police are keeping an eye on her in case her brother contacts her, and everyone treats her like she's a criminal, too. Even Colson at first, who was once deceived by a woman who seemed innocent but led his squad into an attack. It doesn't help that someone's trying to make people doubt Zoey's reliability and mental state.

Zoe liked how Colson made her feel protected, was good with her young son, and their shared background of criminal family members. Colson became her friend when no one else believed her. The suspense came from the threats to Zoey, some physical and some playing mental games. Still, I don't like Christian romances that end with the couple married after knowing each other for only a short period of time and only liking each other for about a week. Yes, they got married, not just engaged.

There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting romantic suspense.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Bound by Duty” is another exceptional Love Inspired Suspense novel that kept me turning the pages well into the night. Not only did it have a fast-paced, suspense filled, and riveting plot but who could resist the combination of a cute little boy and a brave military K-9 like Rottweiler Star?

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and its characters. I loved how dedicated to his job and his dog Linc was yet was open-minded enough to eventually see the truth about Zoe despite suspicions against her. Plenty of action, danger, and romance to satisfy readers like me. I know I want to read more by this author.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Litfuse Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The series continues with the hunt for the Red Rose Killer and the link may be with his half-sister, flight instructor Sergeant Zoe Sullivan, so it's up to Sergeant Linc Colson and his loveable dog Star to find the answers they all want.
Unfortunately, Zoe is being stalked by someone who wants her out of the Air Force by being declared insane. Linc is assigned to protect her, even though the higher-ups do not believe her at first. The romantic tension between Linc and Zoe can be felt from the pages and Zoe's three-year-old son is adorable and quickly bonds with Linc's K-9 partner.
It's clear to see how the characters fit together and eventually fall in love. Looking forward to continuing this series!

[Stacy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Yawn. I just really didn’t like anything about this book. Except cute little kids and dogs. That’s it. It frustrated the hell out of me that everyone just assumed that Zoe must be a bad apple too because her brother was and people were openly hostile to her because of it. The”mystery” was sloppy and way too obvious. Really the plot in general was sloppy. There were definitely some discrepancies. And worst of all, since this is a romance novel after all, I just really wasn’t feeling Zoe and Linc. I wasn’t feeling their chemistry. Oh and this is also a little preachy but it’s from the Love Inspired line so I kind of expected that.

[Lizzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Duty to Protect is the second book in the Military K-9 Unit. Valerie Hansen did an amazing job portraying Linc and Zoe as equally strong characters. Linc was assigned to watch Zoe due to her relation to the Red Rose Killer. Linc doesn't trust Zoe, because he thinks she's helping her brother sneak on and off base. But when threats against Zoe become more and more deadly, Linc must put aside his feelings and focus on keeping Zoe and her young son safe, all while keeping the walls around his heart intact.

[LaRee Sutherland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Avoiding the past and commitment to duty

Zoe Sullivan and Linc Colson are forced to spend the majority of their time together because Zoe needs protection, and Linc is a security guard with the help of his K-9 partner. In the beginning, resentment was very strong between the two of them, and the book is a about how their feelings change and together they solve the mysterious episodes in her life. They both are committed to the Air Force, but striving to overcome things from their past. Another sweet romance with another step towards finding Zoe's brother. More to come on that.

[Cathy Beckett · Rating 3 out of 5]

The second Military K-9 Unit installment was a fun read. Sergeant Zoe Sullivan is being stalked. She has no idea who her stalker is but she knows the person is trying to make her think she’s going crazy. Sergeant Linc Coldpn and his K-9 partner Star had Zoe under surveillance because her is the infamous Red Rose Killer.
At first, Linc and his commanding officers in the Security Forces don’t believe she is being stalked. They also believe she has been helping her brother to get on base. Zoe feels like she is fighting a losing battle until Linc and Star find the truth.

[Kelli · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book 2 continues the Red Rose Killer saga. This time, Sergeant Zoe comes under scrutiny as she is Boyd Sullivan's half sister. When another murder occurs, various people on base assume Zoe knows more than she's telling. Assigned to get close and ferret out what she might be hiding is Sergeant Linc. When attacks occur, he has his suspicions, but the more time he spends with her the more he realizes her life is in danger. Can he and his canine companion Star keep Zoe and her son Freddy safe and figure out who wants to harm her? And can he protect his heart from the beautiful Mom?

[Hazel Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Zoe really had a tough cross to bear, her brother being a serial killer, her ex-husband involved in espionage the military that she love think that she is helping her brother. Linc was struggling also with things his father had done. But the both found that purpose in the military. Both had scars, and emotional wounds, but God had kept them both and brought them together. This story has attempted murder, car bomb, and a lot of pranks. Love the K-9 series.

[Minga Dotson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A single mom stationed on a military base is caught up in her crazy brother's escape, his multiple murders are tarnishing her image assuspicion falls on her for his ability to get through military protocol and wander the base at will creating mayhem. A K-9 security speciallist is assigned to monitor her, but his inst. incts say she is just one more victim of his insanity. A who dun it murder mystery with a military bent, and a bite of romance filling in the spaces.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although I don't typically like the "chasing after the wrong person and assuming they're guilty based on circumstantial evidence" types of stories, this one turned out to be fairly sweet. Each of the stories in this book show what happens when people allow God to change their hearts. And, being a single mom who made some very dumb choices and paid a price for it, I like seeing that someone out there understands that and can convey compassion for all people in their writing.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

So So Good

It's so nice to see someone write a book and put a Rottweiler in a gentle good light. Yes they make excellent working dogs for police, military and security but they are also loving family dogs as well. Like all dogs they just need proper training but I've had them for years with my children and grandchildren and cats and kittens.

[Jenny · Rating 1 out of 5]

Full disclosure: I picked up this book to mock it. But on page 15, the main character's name is spelled wrong and that basically sets the tone for the editing of this book. It felt choppy and the plot twists were completely unearned every step of the way. It wasn't a fun bad, it was just poorly constructed bad.