Book Review: In Dog We Trust | Beth Kendrick
Cute emergency!!!
In Dog We Trust is adorable, uplifting, and magnetic—I care so much for Jocelyn and those sweet labs that I wish I could have another book so I don’t have to leave them behind on those pages! When I read In Dog We Trust by Beth Kendrick, I wasn’t sure what to think. A dog romance book? But no—this is a book about a woman finding herself, learning about love and heart ache, and saving some pretty adorable pups along the way. This is a must-read for anyone who wants a feel-good romance with some laugh-out-loud moments!
About the Book
From the author of Once Upon a Wine, a new novel set in the charming seashore town of Black Dog Bay, Delaware.
When everything has gone to the dogs . . .
When Jocelyn Hillier is named legal guardian for the late Mr. Allardyce’s pack of pedigreed Labrador retrievers, her world is flipped upside down. She’s spent her entire life toiling in the tourism industry in Black Dog Bay and never expected to be living the pampered life of a seasonal resident in an ocean side mansion, complete with a generous stipend. But her new role isn’t without its challenges: The dogs (although lovable) are more high-maintenance than any Hollywood diva, the man she wants to marry breaks her heart, and she’s confronted at every turn by her late benefactor’s estranged son, Liam, who thinks he’s entitled to the inheritance left to the dogs.
Jocelyn has worked too hard to back down without a fight, and she’s determined to keep her new fur family together. As she strives to uphold the “Best in Show” standards her pack requires, Jocelyn finds love, family, and forgiveness in the most unexpected places.
Reflection
Well, let me start off with the thing that worried me going in—this is part of a series and it is book 5. I don’t mind jumping in part way, but I worried that I’d be spoiled on other books, or lost. I didn’t need to worry! The series is actually focused on the town of Black Dog Bay—a town renowned for healing broken hearts. Each book in the series focuses on a different resident or visitor to the town, and tells their story. I took a peak and there are a few characters from previous books that pop up as side characters here, but it didn’t spoil ANY of their stories, so I’m already looking forward to reading the rest of this series!
Jocelyn is so fantastic—I loved her! She is vulnerable, a bit naive at times, but when it comes to her values she won’t compromise an inch. She is all heart, and because of that, she believes the best in everyone—even those who might not deserve it. I would read ten books about Jocelyn! But of course, her story has been told, and told well here.
The dogs! I loved the contrast between the rigid training of show dogs, and the loving care that Jocelyn provides. As curmudgeon-y as her boss seems, he is the one who hired her. He knows what she offers to those dogs and he wants that for them. I found it incredibly sweet!
And then there is the whole heartbreak to contend with. I won’t say much, but you’ll be infuriated like I was, I’m sure! But I thought it was wonderful how Kendrick didn’t let the story turn depressing. Jocelyn has other passions in life, and the dogs need her. Jocelyn is a strong woman and I really enjoyed reading about her so much! And there are a few other awesome females in this book that I loved as well.
Many thanks to Berkley for my copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
21 Comments
Shalini
Yayyy you are hear… I just finished bestie hopping. Fab review, darling Mackie.. And the cover is so heartwarming… I want book and the puppy😍😍
Mackenzie
I am always the last one lol!!! I should set to post earlier but I haven’t ever noticed 💕💕 Thanks, Shalini! The puppies are so cute in the book!!!
Shalini
Sorry autocorrect here*
Holly B / Dressedtoread
Loved Jocelyn! She was a great character and lovely review Mack!
Mackenzie
Thanks Holly!!! 💕
Darinda (Nightcap Books)
Sounds like a charming read! Great review, Mackenzie!
Mackenzie
It’s so charming!!! Cute out the wazoo!!!
Berit&V@Audio Killed the Bookmark
Wonderful review this was such an adorable book!🐾💜
Mackenzie
It sure was! Thanks, Berit!
The Cozy Pages
There isn’t enough space on WordPress for the amount of Awws this post inspires. Lol. Lovely review. Will have to check it out. 😊
Mackenzie
I couldn’t say it better!!! It’s so cute!!!
carhicks
Wonderful review Mackenzie. I have been pending for awhile for this one, so I am guessing that I am not getting it. I love books with dogs in them so this one sounds wonderful. And the fact that the dogs are part of a romance story, really interests me. I think I am going to take a week in February and only read books about or with dogs in them.
Mackenzie
Its wonderful, Carla!!! I hate when I’m left pending… ugh! It’s out now so maybe you can find it at the library??? The dogs are so cute!!!
carhicks
It is there, but again, I have to wait until I get home in March. I am making a list.
Mackenzie
Oh good!!! I didn’t realize you are away from home so long! Hopefully doing something fun, though I’m sure you miss home 😊
carhicks
I hate the cold, so I get in my car and drive to Florida. I stay for 10 to 12 weeks with the hope that when I get home, winter is over. I am loving the sunshine and warmth.
Mackenzie
That sounds so wonderful!!! I hope you have a great “winter” ☀️
Jee Wan
Love your review! Jocelyn sounds like a great friend to have and the dogs…hard not to fall in. Love with them! I mean, just look at the cover! Glad you enjoyed this read, Mack!
Mackenzie
She’s a fantastic friend!!! The cover is so adorable!
sunflowerbooklvr
Loved Jocelyn!! Such a great friend :). Loved this cute book!!!
Mackenzie
She’s wonderful!!! Me too, Kendie!