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K-9 Companions #24

Her Loyal Companion

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To train these dogs

They’ll need time, patience…and love

Training service dogs is Autumn McCaw’s passion. She won’t let anything jeopardize her business’s chance of success, including her former love Wyatt Nelson. But with a looming deadline to prove herself capable, she has no choice but to hire the one man who hurt her years ago. Relying on the single dad is tough—especially since he has trust issues of his own. But can Autumn and Wyatt overcome their past to save her business…and open their hearts to love?

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
Book 22: Training the K-9 Companion by Jill Kemerer
Book 23: A Companion for His Son by Lee Tobin McClain
Book 24: Her Loyal Companion by Heidi Main
Book 25: A K-9 Christmas Reunion by Lisa Carter
Book 26: His Christmas Salvation by Lee Tobin McClain
Book 27: Guarding Her Christmas Secret by Jill Weatherholt

214 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 20, 2024

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About the author

Heidi Main

23 books835 followers
Heidi Main is a New York Times and Publishers Weekly Bestselling Author. Her sweet inspirational romance novels celebrate small-town life, faith, and the beauty of second chances. Though she lives in the suburbs, Heidi dreams of acreage and horseback riding—longings that find their way into her novels through wide-open ranches and loyal horses. A perfect Saturday is spent relaxing on the deck with her husband and watching the birds that visit their backyard. Learn more about heidi at heidimain.com.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Profile Image for Karen Baney.
Author 45 books462 followers
August 21, 2024
Heidi Main writes engaging characters in this sweet second chance romance.

I loved the twist on a vacation romance / second chance story. I really enjoyed the open chapter and the way the author reintroduced Autumn and Wyatt. Autumn needed Wyatt’s dog training skills and Wyatt needed a rent-free place to live. The author revealed just enough secrets to hook me into the story.

The angst of both main characters ran deep, but I kept rooting for them to overcome. They did and I found the HEA very satisfying along with their spiritual growth.

I really enjoyed the realistic descriptions of the dogs, dog training, and each dog’s unique personality. The author wove a beautiful story full of healing.

Fans of inspirational romance, clean romance, and Christian romance will enjoy this story.

Romance: Squeaky clean
Faith: Strong example of a man seeking God’s direction for his relationship.

I received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of the publisher through Just Read Tours. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Carolyn Bryant.
1,014 reviews79 followers
June 30, 2024
This is the first Heidi Main book I have read, and I love it! Set in Serenity, Texas, this is a heart-warming, faith-filled story of second chances not only for romance but also for rescue dogs! I enjoyed Autumn, Wyatt, and Harper’s journey as they struggle to heal from past hurts/traumas and learn to trust again while also trying to make a success of Autumn’s dog boarding/training business. The plot moves at a steady pace with well-placed twists. I love Autumn and Wyatt as a couple, and my heart went out to precocious little Harper and the cool cast of furry friends! I greatly appreciate the strong faith thread and spiritual growth that takes place in the story. This book worked well as a standalone but left me wanting to read the first two books in the Triple C Ranch series to learn Trisha and Laney’s backstories! I think contemporary inspirational romance fans will love this story, and I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from the author with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Heather Pickett.
424 reviews27 followers
July 4, 2024
Autumn McCaw is driven to get her service dog business up and running, but desperately needs a certified dog trainer to pick up where her capabilities end. Wyatt Nelson seems to drop right into her lap, though he’s the last person she expected, or wanted, to see. His skills fit the bill perfectly for the job, and the small apartment she’s offering in lieu of payment fits his needs, and the needs of his young daughter, Harper.
Autumn and Wyatt each have traumatic pasts, and each are gripping so tightly onto the emotional burdens of those pasts, neither has much hope for the future. Can they each learn how to “let go and let God”? Could letting go free up room in their hearts for a future together?
I was completely invested in how these two characters came to trust not only each other, but the Lord. Author Heidi Main adroitly weaves threads of faith, friendship, and forgiveness in Her Loyal Companion. Settle in for this one, plus it has my favorite, an epilogue!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.

Profile Image for June Jacobs.
Author 51 books156 followers
August 19, 2024
A heartwarming story filled with surprises, joy, and wonderful 2-legged and 4-legged characters . . .

Autumn McCaw is trying to build her newly-launched service dog training and dog boarding business on her family's Triple C Ranch into a success. She's been blessed with the use of her neighbor's rent-free barn and is hopeful to turn her new venture into a self-sustaining business soon. Her own service dog, Baby, is a loveable Jack Russell Terrier who helps to keep Autumn's emotions in balance.

Wyatt Nelson, a man from her past, has applied for the job as Autumn's part-time dog trainer. He's certainly qualified after training military canines when he was serving in the United States Air Force. Wyatt wasn't told Autumn was the business owner, and she never expected to see him pull up in his truck to interview for the job.

Without sharing any spoilers here, I felt this author handled an extremely awkward and sensitive situation from the past very well. I could feel the tension and negative emotions between these two individuals as if I were immersed in the scene as an observer of their conversations and interactions.

As time goes on, Autumn begins to share her past with Wyatt; and it becomes clear to him why she always acts like she wants to be anywhere else than dealing with him. As time goes on, things between them become more natural and Wyatt's four-year-old daughter, Harper, becomes a central part of the plot. Harper's antics and the canine antics will delight readers throughout the story.

My favorite scene in the story is a private conversation between Autumn and her loving, kind, and understanding mother.

I learned a lot about training service dogs which I appreciated. I also enjoyed seeing Autumn's marketing ideas in action.

This book is completely clean in language and content.

I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.

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376 reviews20 followers
July 27, 2024
I really like books by Heidi Main. She has a way of bringing her characters to life just like she did in this book. There were a lot of really good enlightenments in this plot. One thing I thought was a really good truth is that you should not isolate yourself from others. Also this book shows just how important good communication is to a relationship. I would definitely recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy from the author. The opinions in this review are my own.
Profile Image for SARAH TAYLOR.
326 reviews65 followers
July 19, 2024
Her Loyal Companion by Heidi Main! This book is such a great story that will keep you reading and turning the pages, As well as great characters As Autumn McCaw will not let anything stand in her way for her success of her own business she needs to hire a trainer to help get her business up and running she has a deadline she needs to meet for her clients and she needs to hire a trainer can she find it in her heart to forgive and trust the one man she thought let her down Wyatt Nelson a certified Trainer and his daughter Harper has come to Serenity Texas in hopes to find their forever home and to put their hurts behind them! This is such a great story I highly recommend it when you pick it up you won't want to put it down! I was given a compilatory copy and this is my own honest opinion!
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,987 reviews219 followers
August 19, 2024
What a sweet and emotional second chance at love story! Autumn and Wyatt have a past, which includes a painful secret that Autumn has been carrying around for years. Both of these characters have reasons to feel unloved and also struggle with abandonment issues. Yet, they have both become believers in the seven years that they have been apart. But will they have the trust in God necessary to take a chance on love together?

These two have a lot to work through and I appreciated that when Autumn finally filled Wyatt in on what happened to her, it opened a dialogue. They both were very good about talking through things together. But even with the good communication, they had serious hurdles to get over.

I loved the way Wyatt and Autumn loved Wyatt’s daughter. She had her own struggles but made so much headway in the story due to their love and support.

Trigger Warning: Mentions of a past miscarriage.

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...
Profile Image for Tara Robinson.
163 reviews20 followers
June 29, 2024
I absolutely loved this sweet, heartwarming story!! Ms. Main knows how to bring the characters to life. Autumn has a emotionally tragic past that's she's trying to overcome. Her former love, Wyatt Nelson and his young daughter are dealing with their own tragic past. If Autumn can forgive Wyatt, she might just find a forever family. Second chances, falling in love, hope, faith, forgiveness, fur babies,friendship and believing in God. I couldn't put this story down!! A must read for sure!! I was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kay Garrett.
653 reviews100 followers
July 3, 2024
HER LOYAL COMPANION by Heidi Main is the wonderful, heart-tugging story of Autumn McCaw and Wyatt Nelson. Both have moved to Serenity with hopes of putting their individual pasts behind them only to bump into each other and their mutual past. For a chance for them to make it means working through their past and to work together in the present. A little four-year-old girl may be the thing they need to make it happen.

A chance meeting, an instant connection and an unforgettable night had left Autumn McCaw pregnant. Upon learning the news, she tired by calls and text to reach Wyatt. Unable to get an answer, she was forced to face the hand she had been dealt alone. Feeling her family would be ashamed of her unwed condition caused her to pull away both emotionally and physically. It had her facing her pregnancy and the following heartbreaking miscarriage with no one to lean on. A secret only known by her roommate.

She finally learned her passion in life, after adopting Baby, her Jack Russell terrier. She leaned on Baby for comfort and learned the difference between emotional support animals and service dogs. She felt called to provide service dogs to people in need. Returning back to her hometown of Serenity, she started up Triple C Ranch Dog Boarding and Training. The start-up equipment had just about wiped out her funds. Thankfully, Henry Wright, the adjacent property owner to her family’s ranch had given her free use of a huge barn just across the property line. Now all she needs is to find a dog trainer willing to do his magic in exchange for a one-bedroom apartment over her parent’s garage. So fair, she’d found no taker.

Wyatt Nelson is the single parent to 4-year-old Harper. While he might still be suffering with trust issues after his divorce, his daughter had been traumatized by action, neglect and feeling unloved by her mother, who is now sitting in prison. Suffering nightmares at night and fears of abandonment while at daycare, Wyatt is determined more than ever to give her a loving home and family roots by moving close to family. It was the emergency phone call from this mother about his grandmother that had him leaving quickly after his brief time with Autumn so unexpectedly. Since he’d been using a burner phone, which he ditched, at the function they were attending so he never got the calls or messages from Autumn. With his mother living with her mother to take care of her, there was little room for Wyatt and Harper. Besides his grandmother needed quiet surroundings during her treatments not the noise that a 4-year-old with emotional problems created. Finding a place to live is in the forefront of his mind. However, his ex-wife left him with a pile of bills and no money to pay for them. When Doc Earl, who had been gracious to offer him a job at Mighty Paws Vet Clinic, told him about the chance to do a side job in dog training, perfect for this former Air Force K-9 trainer and that the pay for the job was an apartment, he thought he’d hit the jackpot. He was both surprised and happy to see who was offering the job/apartment combo until he got a very cold reception. What was that all about? He NEEDS this apartment meaning he will do whatever it takes to get it.

Can Autumn and Wyatt talk about the past and find a way to work together in the present? Will the needs of them both have them accepting the mistakes of the past? Will a 4-year-old show Autumn that her motherly abilities didn’t die 7 years ago? Will Wyatt end up giving her as much or more support than Baby has been? Will his strength have her finally talking truthfully to her mother? Is it true that the truth will set you free? Will feelings of the past start to make a reappearance? Will either of them allow them to flourish? Can they find ways to expand the business to make it a success? When Buster turns out to be a bust as a service dog, will possible retaliation harm the business they have both worked so hard on? Or will the success on Tallulah, a female Portuguese water dog, trained as a diabetic service dog be the first of many more placements? When the property the barn sets on sells, will the new property owner demand an insurmountable rent for his newly acquired barn? How can they pay rent when the money is just starting to come in? Will Autumn and Wyatt’s relationship move forward or will their fears keep them apart? Could their second chance be what helps to heal a little girl who just wants Autumn as her momma?

HER LOYAL COMPANION is an exceptional story that tugs at your heart from beginning to end as you pull for them to relinquish the past, relish the present and dream about a future. It's is a story of forgiveness, acceptance, truthfulness, family, community, willingness to go step out in faith, second chances - for both animals and humans, and love. Heidi Main wrapped it all expertly with a wonderful thread of faith that reminds us that no problem is to big or small to turn over to God. We often want to be in control, but we have to realize that only He is in control and through Him all things are possible. HER LOYAL COMPANION is a fabulous inspirational romance that is without a doubt FIVE STAR reading that I highly recommend to everyone!

I receive an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#HerLoyalCompanion #HeidiMain #K9Companions #LoveInspired #InspirationalRomance
1,363 reviews9 followers
August 22, 2024
Super characters and cute dogs, how can you resist?

Autumn is looking for a certified dog trainer, when Wyatt shows up. But she had a painful past history with him. However, he is the only trainer willing to work for just room and board. Also, Wyatt comes with an adorable daughter, Harper. Can they both overcome their painful pasts and learn to trust again? Read this to see. There is also the super idea of taking in rescue dogs and training them to be service dogs. There is a lot of information about how that could be done.

The pace is fast and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has some kisses but no steam. The characters are vivid and engaging. The Christian ideals are woven into the fabric of the story and not tacked on. This is a wonderful Christian romance with lots of great dogs in it. Enjoy!
530 reviews
August 14, 2024
Her Loyal Companion by Heidi Main is a cute novel packed with faith, family values, forgiveness, intrigue, and small-town charm. The story centers on a second-chance romance between Wyatt and Autumn, two characters with major trust issues and a secret that must come out into the open for their healing to begin. I really liked Wyatt's personality and enjoyed reading about his relationship with his daughter, Harper. It was sweet to read about such a caring and protective father. However, it did take me some time to warm up to Autumn because of the way she behaved towards Wyatt. While her behavior was somewhat understandable at first, I felt that she took it too far in certain moments. As their relationship progressed, I enjoyed their moments of teamwork as they came together to try and save Autumn's business. I appreciated how much research the author did when discussing Autumn's dog-training business, as it was very interesting to learn about how service dogs are scent-trained. If you're looking for a story with a second-chance romance, a hidden secret, cute rescue dogs, and a small-town setting, Her Loyal Companion by Heidi Main may be the story for you.
Profile Image for Dawn Leonard.
329 reviews
August 14, 2024
Loved the idea of a business to train service dogs. Both Autumn and Wyatt come into the story with a lot of trust issues to deal with. Harper and Baby were great secondary characters. I recommend this book especially to those who like dogs in the stories. I received a copy of this book from the author and a copy from a friend who thought I would love it. She was right. All opinions are my own.
153 reviews6 followers
July 1, 2024
I loved this book. Little Harper is such a sweetheart. I simply fell in love with her. Autumn and Wyatt are easy to like. I really enjoyed getting to know both of them. The both have issues of trust and I enjoyed watching as they worked their way through them.I enjoyed reading about the training of service dogs for diabetics A definite recommendation.
414 reviews10 followers
July 9, 2024
I loved the story and learning to trust others with your life
Profile Image for Marie.
578 reviews23 followers
August 26, 2024
Thank you in advance to the author, Heidi Main, for providing a complimentary review copy through her launch team. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.

This is my third visit to the Triple C Ranch. Not only was I looking forward to checking in on some of the other characters, but to read about Autumn’s Service Dog venture. Over the past few months, I’ve seen a lot of posts on social media about how there is not only confusion, but discrimination over emotional support animals (ESAs) and service animals, or rather service dogs (SDs).

It was also a unique storyline, and one that I don’t see in many stories.

As this is the third in the Triple C Ranch series, readers should read the first two books in the series:

#1 – A Nanny for the Rancher’s Twins (Ethan & Laney)
#2 – A Family for the Orphans (Walker & Trisha)

Returning for this book:

💒 Laney (married to Ethan)
🐎 Ethan (mentioned)
🎀 Tori & Zoe (Ethan’s twins)
👒 Cora (Ethan and Autumn’s mother)
🐎 Wade (Ethan and Autumn’s father)
🐕‍🦺 Autumn (Ethan’s sister, Laney’s childhood friend)
🐎 Trisha
🐎 Walker
🎀 Gabby (mentioned as playing with Harper; older siblings not mentioned)

Readers are then introduced to:

🐕‍🦺 Wyatt
👧🏻 Harper

This is one of those “sweet” and inspirational, but heart-breaking and gut-wrenching reads. The author doesn’t shy away from reality. There are going to be some references that could be difficult for readers, and at times will be difficult. These are: prescription drug addiction, incarceration of a parent, cancer battle, infidelity, un-wed pregnancy, miscarriage, and potential PTSD.

The author gets right into the story without much lead in. Autumn has a goal of using rescue dogs for service animals, especially knowing how beneficial hers is – a Jack Russell terrier named Baby.

But, while Autumn can do the obedience part, she needs a dedicated trainer for the rest – the medical alert portion. That’s where Wyatt comes into it.

A former K-9 trainer with the Air Force (quite the credential), and a single dad, Wyatt is the LAST person Autumn wants to work with. Due to a misunderstanding, she feels he ignored her seven (7) years ago when she needed him. While she needs Wyatt to make her in-home dates a reality, the thought of working with him is not palatable. Yet, losing her business isn’t a viable option either.
Wyatt needs the job, which comes with an apartment, because of the housing situation. His grandmother is in treatment for cancer, and he knows that Harper’s night terrors isn’t compatible. He also needs to get Harper “stabilized”.

After talking Autumn into taking a chance on him, he’s grateful. Though, she isn’t the same woman he remembers. She’s prickly, cold, and distant. He’s wondered what happened to her since the time they were together. Then again, he’s too busy focusing on his daughter. He also needs to heal and learn to trust.

While Autumn is prickly to Wyatt, she is kinder to Harper, if not almost like a mother to the girl. So much so, Harper eventually expresses that desire. But, motherhood is a wound for Autumn. And, Wyatt is standoffish due to his ex-wife.

Eventually, Autumn tells Wyatt what the issue is. From there, their professional life comes together in sync. There are a few hiccups, especially when Wyatt is too honest about a dog’s potential. Yet, it is a reality when training service dogs – some just don’t work out.

Autumn, after her confession, begins to wonder about a relationship with Wyatt, and he with her. It also begins to seep through to Harper who expresses multiple times how she wants Autumn to be her mother. Though, Wyatt’s ex-wife’s situation along with his father, makes it hard for Wyatt to trust.

That won’t be the only hurdle the two will face. They have cause to worry when the barn they’re using is the subject of contention when a new owner takes possession. That leaves Autumn thinking her business might fail before it even launches.

Main’s writing and stories dig into the reader’s heart and soul. One minute there is laughing, the next crying; yet can’t stop reading. I was drawn right in and didn’t want to put it down, but I needed my sleep. That was until closer to the end. I ended up staying up FAR past my bedtime to finish. This was one of those books that the further along it went, the faster it seemed to go. Not like the author was rushing it though. For a romance, it seemed like that didn’t get going until the very end to materialize.

I have to admit, I was not fond of Autumn in the beginning. It wasn’t until she finally tells Wyatt what happened that I began thinking better of her. I did (and do) sympathize with her situation. It was a scary and traumatic event, and why I believe she suffered from PTSD, especially seven (7) years later. A few women I follow on social media have been through what Autumn went through. And, grief is different for all. That’s why it is essential to have a support system, something Autumn clearly needed.

With regard to miscarriages and infertility issues – Samantha Busch (the wife of two-time NASCAR Cup champion Kyle Busch) is an inspiration. She has truly been a guiding force and light for women who have been through those struggles.

Getting back to this story …

In addition to Autumn’s ESA, I felt she also needed therapy as well. Even more so after seeing Wyatt again and being so angry towards him. Then, when confronted, she was always running away. This was something that she needed to tell Wyatt as soon as he applied for the job (or rather as soon as he approached her). It would’ve helped their professional relationship get off to a better start. She needed to realize that some things were beyond anyone’s control – even her own. And, Autumn needed to tell her family. There was a scene about how her guilt at keeping the secret (and shame from it) was eating at her – which, it will. She was feeling a divide between herself and her family that didn’t seem to exist. Her mother knew something, but didn’t know what.

Overall, Autumn’s maturity and growth is beautiful.

I was also smiling at how far Laney had come since the first book, A Nanny for the Rancher’s Twins. And, how much she and Trisha were there for Autumn.

The relationship Wyatt had with his daughter was so sweet. And, I LOVED how the little girl attached to Autumn, despite Wyatt’s concerns. I saw the Autumn/Harper relationship as a symbiotic one. They both desperately needed each other. One was healing from losing a child, and the other healing from losing a mother.

The story serves as a reminder of how important service animals and emotional support animals are. I did want the author to delve into the difference between the two. Despite knowledge out there, some people still don’t know about the differences. Also, the story highlights the importance of communication, and that guilt, along with shame, can be disabling in their own way.

Unlike the other two books, this wasn’t as light on the faith aspect. Given the storyline and topics – that is quite understandable. While present, it is not overwhelming. It was a soothing balance. Though, a prayer of mine was answered in reading … the slimy developers from book #2 didn’t return 🤭

I’m absolutely looking forward to my next visit to the Triple C ranch and see how Autumn’s business is doing, as well as Harper’s progress. I’m looking forward to seeing how some new land owners will fit in with the expanding McCaw family. I’m also wondering about a plot point in this story that wasn’t fully resolved.
Profile Image for Asheley T..
1,616 reviews125 followers
March 16, 2025
This was every bit as sweet as I had hoped, and every bit as cute as the cover. A few days ago I finished the fourth book in the Triple C Ranch series and I loved it, not only because the story was great but because animals were such a large part of the story. When I found out the book immediately previous to it featured dogs, I decided to go back and read it too. I flew thru it yesterday and enjoyed every second of reading.

Autumn is home and living with her parents after living in another state for a few years. Trying to get on her feet after recently starting a service dog training business. Autumn had seen how important dogs can be to people who have certain needs or issues like diabetes, allergies, etc. She hired Wyatt when she realized she needed a little bit of help getting the business going. Wyatt works at the local vet but before that he was a dog trainer and handler in the military, so he’s more than qualified to scent train these dogs. While he and Autumn butt heads for a while initially, they do make a great team. With Wyatt living in the apartment over Autumn’s garage along with his daughter, they are forced to be in close proximity to one another, which forces them to reconnect.

This is a second chance romance story, and I just love that trope. Autumn and Wyatt made a connection years ago, but never pursued it. Wyatt moved from there into a marriage that didn’t end well, and Autumn was left very hurt when she never heard back from Wyatt after their time together. Both now have big trust issues, and both guard their heart pretty intensely. They have to work thru those issues before they’re able to trust one another completely. Before they are free to love again. Wyatt in particular intends to protect his daughter from new people coming into his life because he is convinced that relationships and love aren’t real and won’t last.

The sweet romance is wonderful, and Wyatt’s daughter continuously made me smile. But my favorite part of this story is the dogs!! There are so many of them, and they have such a large part in the story! No matter where Autumn and Wyatt find themselves in the progression of their relationship, the dogs still have to be fed and trained, and I read this one with a big smile on my face. I can see now how they did such a great job training the working Great Pyrenees dogs in the following book, which is how this book made it onto my radar in the first place.

I also loved Autumn’s large and loving family, especially her sweet mother Cora. I think I will go back and read the first two books in this series now, even though they feature children in the title and on the cover. I love this family and if those stories are written as wonderfully as this book and the one that follows it, I’ll love them too.
Profile Image for Hallie (Hallie Reads).
1,544 reviews163 followers
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August 27, 2024
a cute second-chance romance!

autumn's working hard to make her dog-training business a success, and wyatt shows up just when she needs the help—except working with him means confronting the painful memories she'd rather forget. they are both different from the people they were when they met years ago, but could they have changed enough to make this second chance worth it?

her loyal companion has a whole lot of dogs, a sweet reconciliation (though not without a little drama), an adorable four-year-old, and some sweet moments of relying on God. it's an altogether enjoyable and quick read; i had fun reading it, and i'm sure it could be equally fun for a dog-loving inspirational-contemporary-romance reader.

(i received a complimentary copy from the publisher. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.)


considerations:
—language: none
—spice: kisses only; past vacation fling, but no detail
—faith: strong themes with mentions of God and prayer
—content: mention of miscarriage, addicted loved one, divorce
504 reviews
August 29, 2024
ups and downs

This is a great story with great characters and a good storyline. It has emotions that people deal with every day and in all parts of the world. Keep the Kleenex handy for the ending ❤️
Profile Image for Jaclyn.
2,700 reviews5 followers
August 31, 2025
Sweet story.

The FMC annoyed me a bit with her lack of care in thinking she can train service dogs herself off of learning from YouTube videos, to the point that she promised unrealistic doggy graduation dates before even hiring a professional trainer. Even though she acquiesced to the MMC's expertise later, I still wish she'd acknowledged her error more broadly, coz that's pretty unfair to the dogs and their future humans. Minus one star for this.

That being said, I LOVE that she focused on training rescue dogs rather than purchased puppies. So fine, bumping back up by a star for that.
Profile Image for Rachel Williamson.
1,113 reviews35 followers
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August 25, 2024
I love reading Love Inspired stories that include K9 companions. This sweet story is about love, forgiveness, second chances and family. I loved the main characters Autumn and Wyatt and them working together with dog training. I loved reading about Autumn and her service dog Baby. Dogs can be such a help and support to others!

Easy to read, great characters and plot! I really enjoyed it!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.
1,725 reviews34 followers
August 16, 2024
Her Loyal Companion by Heidi Main
An Uplifting Inspirational Romance
(K-9 Companions Book 24)
To train these dogs
They’ll need time, patience…and love
Training service dogs is Autumn McCaw’s passion. She won’t let anything jeopardize her business’s chance of success, including her former love Wyatt Nelson. But with a looming deadline to prove herself capable, she has no choice but to hire the one man who hurt her years ago. Relying on the single dad is tough—especially since he has trust issues of his own. But can Autumn and Wyatt overcome their past to save her business…and open their hearts to love?
This is Autumn McCaw’s story.
This is Wyatt Nelson’s story.
Autumn McCaw drew in a comforting breath of hay and rough-and-tumble dogs, thrilled to finally be part of something she believed in. Tori and Zoe, her five-year-old twin nieces, chased each other around the haphazard hay bale maze she’d set up as a training test for Tallulah, the female Portuguese water dog she’d rescued a few months ago. The screams, shouts and quick movements were exactly what she wanted to test the dog on. Like Tallulah had been taught, she sat at attention, her eyes solely on Autumn and not the rambunctious girls.
Success! She’d been training the medium-size black dog in basic obedience and social skills so she’d be ready to become the amazing diabetic service dog Autumn knew she could be.
The newer-model four-door truck with an extended cab parked, then all the windows rolled down before the occupant emerged. The man fitted his Stetson on his head and walked toward her, glancing back at his vehicle every few steps. As he neared, she caught sight of his face and sucked in a breath at the familiar man striding toward her. Wyatt Nelson.
When his gaze landed on hers, he startled, as if he hadn’t expected to see her. For a moment, his steps faltered, but he kept moving forward. .
I recommend this book..
Her Loyal Companion by Heidi Main is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
You will love this book. Uplifting story of faith ,hope and second chances.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Heidi Main.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
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Profile Image for Christi.
1,223 reviews38 followers
August 23, 2024
I love a sweet Love Inspired escape and Her Loyal Companion was the perfect summer read. Animal training has always been a fascination with me, particularly when it comes to service dogs, so I loved reading about some of the techniques used as Autumn and Wyatt train service dogs for those in need.

Autumn carries around a lot of emotional baggage due to what she’s endured in the past, which is completely understandable. Having gone through something similar in my past, it’s hard not to build up emotional walls to protect yourself from the pain of getting hurt again. Wyatt has trust issues due to past hurts and feels like love is temporary and isolation is the only option until he meets a special girl that makes him see things through a different lens. I identified a lot with these flawed characters.

Little Harper, besides the dogs, was one of the brightest spots in this narrative. She is quite the astute little girl and her interactions with the dogs were some of my favorite moments. Four is one of my favorite ages and Harper is a great example as to why I adore this age group so much.

I lost my dog at the beginning of this year and not a day goes by that I don’t think of her. Reading this novel helped with some of the ache that I still feel in my heart at my loss and honestly has me thinking it might be time to let another four-legged friend into my life.

I truly enjoyed Her Loyal Companion for multiple reasons, particularly for reminding me that there can be joy and healing when you let others in, and just because you feel like your story is over doesn’t mean that it is. Sometimes you just have to let go and take a chance.

*I have voluntarily 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.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,909 reviews54 followers
August 22, 2024
I really enjoy Christian Romance books and LOVE Inspired Brand is a WONDERFUL series of Books. is Book 24 in the K9 Companions series. I have read several books in this series and I have enjoyed them all. I have already read many of Heidi Main books and I always enjoy her books!


WOW, another GREAT LOVE Inspired Book in the K9 Companions series! I really LOVE the 2 main characters, Autumn McCaw and Wyatt Nelson. They had a previous relationship and Autumn had a distrust in Wyatt. Autumn has a passion for Dogs, especially Training Service Dogs. She also is trying to overcome some personal tragedy. Wyatt is a single Dad with a young daughter and they also have had tragedy in their life. I LOVE how Autumn and Wyatt unite to help save Autumn's business before it fails. I LOVE that Autumn receives the skills needed for her business from Wyatt and Wyatt and his daughter are granted a small apartment to live in. The situation is ideal for both. Autumn and Wyatt learn to Trust in God and not their own understanding and despite their personal situations. The book is one of Faith, Second Chances, and LOVE. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves Christian Romance. GREAT BOOK!
Profile Image for Jo|Ruth Reads.
830 reviews90 followers
August 21, 2024
"So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." - Isaiah 41:10

Fear... A believer must learn that they can not fully grasp hold of their faith in God at the same time that they are grabbing hold onto fear. In this story we see the toll that past pains, disappointments, and just human flaws had on crippling the future for Autumn and Wyatt. They both had a past to overcome,and God was providing them with a second chance, but it would mean letting go of the past and grasping towards the future. Easier said than done.

Wyatt and Autumn have a past together and it isn't a good one. But with Autumn struggling to keep her dog training business afloat, and Wyatt being the only one that can/will step in to help her, she has to lean on him. He doesn't understand why she is so against him helping her. But he needs the job and he needs the fresh start for him and his daughter. With time they both can see that neither of them are who they once were. They both are in the midst of healing and not in a place to be together, so they won't consider it. But can they continue to work together? Can they keep the feelings in check? What is Autumn hiding that is causing her to push away from Wyatt? Can they save her business?

Reading this book was like settling into a good devotional. I felt like I was going on this journey with all of them as they had to deal with the past, try to find joy in the present, and trust God with their future. Yes,it is a romance, but it is much more than that... its a story of starting over. Taking the shackles of the past off your feet and walking towards a God-given future!

***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.***
Profile Image for Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy.
2,276 reviews77 followers
August 13, 2024
Dogs, dogs everywhere. This is my favorite kind of book. Autumn McCaw has found something she is passionate about - training service dogs. To make these dogs even more special, they are rescue dogs as well. She soon realizes that she can train dogs in obedience training, but specialized training will require a certified trainer.

She is shocked when Wyatt Nelson shows up to apply for the job. Wyatt broke her heart years ago, and she feels betrayed. However, she needs his expertise in order to properly train the dogs, so she will have to put her personal feelings aside.

Both Autumn and Wyatt need healing in their hearts and lives. This sweet story will worm its way into your heart with a second chance romance, a cast of sweet rescue dogs and precocious little girl named Harper. This one left a smile on my face with all of the sweetness and joy.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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