Her Alaskan Companion: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance

K-9 Companions #15

by Heidi McCahan

Romance isn’t the plan…

Until a mischievous dog changes everything.

When pregnant widow Lexi Thomas moves to Alaska for a fresh start, the last thing on her mind is romance. Fortunately her neighbor’s affectionate goldendoodle is just the distraction she needs—unlike his gruff owner. Police officer Heath Donovan hopes building a fence in exchange for pet sitting will keep Lexi at a distance. But when his unruly dog turns matchmaker, can he face his biggest fear for a shot at love?

From Love 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

Genres: Christian Fiction, Love Inspired

368 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2023

About the author

Heidi McCahan writes uplifting inspirational romance novels set in small towns. She is a bestselling author of several books, including Her Alaskan Family and A Baby in Alaska. A perfect day for Heidi includes a huge cup of good coffee, dark chocolate, and reading stories with happy endings. She makes her home in North Carolina with her handsome husband, three amazing boys, and the world’s greatest Goldendoodle. Heidi is represented by Steve Laube of The Steve Laube Agency. A Winter of Sweet Secrets, Heidi’s next novel with Harlequin Love Inspired, releases on September 30, 2025.

Reviews

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first time I’ve read a book by Heidi McCahan and it did not disappoint. I also love a book where the geographical setting is in Alaska. There’s an adorable Golden Doodle dog that plays the role of matchmaker in bringing two reluctant neighbors together in this clean contemporary romance. It was a page turner that I enjoyed from the first chapter. The characters added so much to the story . Near the end there’s an unpredictable turn of events that will make you want to chew your nails. The ending is happy and the Author left me satisfied with the way everything turned out.

When a pregnant widow moves in next door to a handsome police officer they both have good reasons to avoid each other. From the beginning Heath Donovan’s Golden Doodle dog seems determined to bring the two new neighbors together. Scout adores Lexi Thomas from day one and won’t stay away from her place. Before long Lexi and Donovan become smitten with one another but there are reasons that each of them don’t want to start a relationship . The determined dog doesn’t give up easily . What would Scout have to do to make these humans want to spend time together?

I recommend this book to readers of contemporary romance and Love Inspired books. This book can be read as a stand alone book but there are other books in Heidi McCahan’s Home to Hearts Bay miniseries.

I won a copy of this book in a Facebook group giveaway. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.

[Tina Loves To Read]

This is a Clean Romance, and this is the 15th book in the K-9 Companions series. I ended DNFing this book around the 50% mark of this book because I found that I really hated one of the characters and the plot was not making me want to keep reading this book. Heath's character was the one I had trouble with. His character at one point acted like a kid, but the next point acted like a teenager. I just really did not like his character at all. I really loved Lexi's character, and she acted more put together and grew up. The plot was just not going anywhere for me. I did love the dog, and the parts with the dog I did like. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Sheila · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5, This book was ok, I still found Lexi as annoying as I did in the other book she was in.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably a 3.5 :)

[Heidi Main · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book. The K9 companion, Scout, was the sweetest dog ever ~ his mischievous attitude made him even more lovable and he came to life on the page. The hero & heroine walked onto the page wounded and not ready for love, but when they fell for each other they were able to resolved their feelings and we got a HEA! Amazing writing & page turner!

[Harlequin Books]

Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Animal Fiction, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
K-9 Companions (Book #15)

[Jackalyn]

Very good.

[Brenda Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

keep the Kleenex handy

This a beautiful story of Hope faith and love. The characters are great and the story line great. I enjoyed reading it and will look for more stories from Heidi McCahan a new author for me.

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

This was such a delightful story, although there were some somber moments as well. Who knew a goldendoodle named Scout could play matchmaker? Heath Donovan moved to Alaska because he needed a change of scenery after the death of his father. He has declared to himself that he will just work at his job with the sheriff's department and stick close to home. He is fearful that he is a carrier for the genetic disease that ravaged and eventually killed his father, so he has determined that he will not be a burden to anyone and has put himself in self-imposed exile from everyone.

Lexi Thomas was recently widowed and is pregnant with her first child, She needed a change of scenery after dealing with the death of her husband. She ends up moving next door to Heath. Heath has no intentions of conversing with her, but Scout has other ideas. Scout introduces himself to Lexi in a rather sloppy fashion that will put a smile on your face. As these two individuals get to know each other better, they will have to learn to trust in each other and let down their guard.

Scout was by far my favorite character in the book. He was so rambunctious and naughty, but yet so loveable. He provided comic relief that was necessary to balance out some of the sadness in this story. Heath was a difficult person to like on one hand, but I also felt empathy for his situation as well. He was still grieving from the death of his father, and also worrying that he will face the same early death. He was extremely stubborn about getting tested. I wanted to smack him, but his kindness and need to protect Lexi were redeeming factors. Lexi, on the other hand, was a glass half full kind of lady. She had endured heartache, but she had chosen to make the best of her situation and live her life. She was upbeat and he was gloomy, but they complimented each other. This was a story of second chance love, redemption and healing faith. The inspirational message was about learning to lean on their faith and finding the strength to move forward with life.

Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Utterly fabulous story from start to finish. Heath and Lexi are both starting over in Hearts Bay, Lexi is focusing on the new family she’s discovered and the birth of her upcoming baby while Heath is trying to forge a life without love because of a potential devastating fatal disease he may have. Despite their reluctance these next door neighbours are brought together by Heath’s rambunctious dog who is irresistible. Second chances, courage and determination are just some of the themes in this wonderful story, I love this series and highly recommend it to everyone.

[Karen Baney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heidi McCahan writes a beautiful story of overcoming grief and finding love again.

Lexi Thomas moved to Hearts Bay, Alaska, to be close to her birth family. As she deals with the prospect of becoming a single mother, she grieves the loss of her husband. Heath Donovan moves to Hearts Bay to isolate himself as he worries over being a possible carrier of the same devastating disease his father died from. When they become next-door neighbors, they experience instant attraction.

I love the way the author handled Heath’s almost debilitating fear of being diagnosed with the same disease that took his father’s life. It shaped everything he did, and the author stayed true to this. His sweet concern for Lexi was also fun to read. I also thought Lexi’s struggle with grieving and looking to the future to be true to life. My favorite part of the story was the comic relief provided by one very obstinate goldendoodle.

There were a few scenes in the last quarter of the book that left me scratching my head. I felt like they didn’t add to the story and could have been more developed to increase the tension (Thanksgiving scene especially). Despite this, I still enjoyed the story and feel it is worthy of a 4-star rating.

I would recommend this book to fans of Christian romance, Small Town Romance, and Inspirational Romance.

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance, Inspirational Romance, Small Town Romance
Location: Hearts Bay, Alaska
Romance: Very clean. Light kissing.
Faith: Mention of prayer. A character struggles with faith.

Disclaimer: I requested and received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of Harlequin Publishers and Love Inspired through NetGalley. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Her Alaskan Companion" is a Christian romance. Heath's father died of a progressive, fatal disease that Heath has a 50% chance of also carrying. Rather than getting genetically tested to see if he has the disease, he's avoiding relationships. He doesn't want to burden others if he's disabled by this disease, and he certainly doesn't want to potentially pass it on to any children. When his kind, positive, and beautiful new neighbor sparks his interest, he considers a relationship. She's a pregnant widow, so she'll have a child from her first marriage. But he couldn't put her through losing him, too.

Lexi recently lost her beloved first husband, so she's surprised to be so attracted to the protective and very helpful Heath. His dog's a great companion, too, and she enjoys dog-sitting. Her faith in Christ has helped her through hard times, and her new friends help her establish her photography business. But she can't figure out why Heath refuses to talk about his family and sometimes avoids her after she asks innocent questions.

The main characters were likable, though I honestly didn't understand why Heath preferred living as if he was destined to get the disease rather than just getting tested so he'd know. And he's so super-protective and hyper-aware of danger, he'd restrict what Lexi could do if it was his choice. This issue wasn't dealt with, and I suspect 'live life to the full' Lexi would get tired of it with time. Anyway. Heath hadn't talked with God since his father died but is urged to pray by several people. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this romance if you like straight romances with engaging dogs.

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

[Susan Faloon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lexi is a military widow who has moved to Alaska to be near her birth family. As she is moving in, a visitor dashes over to see her. The next-door-neighbors' golden doodle named, Scout has charming doggy instinct and can't stay away from the very pregnant young woman.
New-to-the area law officer Heath Donovan tries to keep his dog home and plans to build a fence to help rein Scout in. He is drawn to the woman but is torn by the terrible experience of his father's recent death. He cannot get close to her or any woman, no matter what.
I received the advanced reader's copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. This is my own unsolicited opinion. I could sympathize with both characters but especially Heath. Having an incurable disease and being nearly paralyzed with fear that it could pass through his family can keep anyone from committing to a relationship. Having two incurable diseases (manageable) myself caused me to appreciate his character and his back-and-forth reactions. He is really torn. Personally, my diagnosis came after marriage and having children, I think about how I would have felt if it happened before I married. I liked Lexi. She is a sweet character that is dealing with loss, challenges and the approaching arrival of a little one who will be dependent on her. There's a lot going on in both of their lives.
I want to read the previous books in the Hearts By mini-series.

[Renee Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two people living with trauma from the past. The author has written a story that will have you crying at some points and cheering at others. Heath and Lexi manage their friendship through the goldendoodle, who is the star of the story.. Loved the story.
Received an ARC from publisher through NetGalley and leaving a review by my own choice.

[Heidi]

I'm so excited for you all to meet Heath, Lexi, and Scout too! Thanks for reading Her Alaskan Companion and sharing your reviews. I appreciate you.

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book about a young newly widowed woman, pregnant with their first child, who moves to Alaska to be near newly found family. Her nextdoor neighbor is also fairly new to the island, a handsome single police officer with a secret. He doesn't want anyone to know his father died of Huntington's disease and he may have the genetic markers but doesn't want to be tested. So, Heath made the decision to remain single. This causes problems when he is strongly attracted to Lexi next door. His goldendoodle, Scout, also falls in love with her and does all he can to bring them together. Lexi struggles a bit with falling for someone so soon after her husband's death. This is the fourth book in the Home to Hearts Bay series. I haven't read the others and it would have helped to understand the dynamics of Lexi's new family, but the author gave enough information that I didn't feel completely lost.

[Michelle Rhoden · Rating 4 out of 5]

What happens when a mischievous dog turns matchmaker between two unsuspecting people, Lexie and Heath? As both characters battle real life issues, will they turn to each other for strength? Will they be able to overcome their adversities in life to realize they need each other for more than just friendship?

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harlequin Love Inspired and NetGalley for my honest review. All words are my own.

[JoAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her Alaskan Companion is a well written inspirational romance. Loved the plot and characters. I recommend the book. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my advance ebook. This is my unbiased review

[Jenn Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great Love Inspired novel. As usual a story full of love, family, friendship, and forgiveness. You learn to love the characters and the story of redemption.

[Harlequin Books]

Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Animal Fiction, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
K-9 Companions (Book #15)

[Kay Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

HER ALASKAN COMPANION by Heidi McCahan is the 15th book in the K-9 Companions Book series. It’s the fabulously written story of Lexi Thomas, Heath Donovan and an adorable dog named Scout, a goldendoodle who is determined to have his bestest two people find what they really need - in each other.

Lexi is not only a recent widow, but she’s also pregnant. Beau, her husband, died on deployment by an improvised explosive device dying before he got to meet his child. Lexi’s decided to follow the dream her husband and she had by moving to Alaska - closer to the Maddens, her new found family. Lexi found out that she had been switched at birth and made connection with her biological family who lived there. Ever since visiting there, she knew this where home was. However, it’s put an immense strain on the family that raised her to the point that she feels completely cut off from them – their choice. She’s got to prove to them, and herself, that picking up, moving and starting her photography business all over again in a strange new place wasn’t the craziest idea yet. With a few still lingering doubts, she’s determined to provide for both her and her baby. She can do this!

Heath knew he needed to move away after the death of his father and the dark cloud hanging over his head of whether he had inherited the disease that not only took his father’s life, but had put such an emotionally draining and physically challenging load on his wife and his sons. Fearful that he carried the gene for Huntington’s disease, he’s convinced himself that he can’t engage in any romantic relationships. He can’t and won’t put someone through what his mother’s been through nor will he take a chance of passing it on to an innocent child. He was extremely happy when a job opened up for a police officer with the Hearts Bay Police Department on Orca Island, Alaska. What he doesn’t need it to feel an attraction towards his new neighbor. But how can he turn his head when he sees she needs some help. And in return, she’s willing to help him with his rambunctious, head strong dog who seems to either be into everything or tearing things up and sure doesn’t follow direction when he calls him. It’s just a friend helping friend – right?

Heath volunteered to help Lexi get into the Fish Fest and find ways to promote her photography thus helping her to be financially independent not having to rely on or be beholding to anyone. Lexi hits it off from the first accidental meeting with Scout and is delighted to dog sit with him for a while. Besides it gives her a reason to exercise when she walks him and she loves having him around for the company. Now if she could just stop getting weak in the knees when she looks into those eyes of his owner. It’s been too soon and she’s definitely not ready for a relationship. But oh, if she was! Heath finds himself volunteering to help more and more when he knows he should be putting distance between them. Telling her why would accomplish that. Why can’t he bring himself to tell her?

Scout seems to find ways to break away and head to Lexi’s house or bringing the two together more when they are trying to stay apart. Will he be able to accomplish opening their eyes and bringing them together? After all, a dog needs two parents just like that little baby does - right? The further along Lexi gets in her pregnancy, the more protective Heath is. The more he does, the more Lexi could see them together, but her feelings aren’t returned - are they? But that kiss! Heath has waited so long to tell her about the Huntington’s disease, but he can’t wait any longer. Can he walk out of her life?

HER ALASKAN COMPANION is a page turning book that will have you smiling one minute and then wishing you could smack someone upside the head the next. You can’t help but love both Lexi and Heath and at times understanding each one’s point of view. All while knowing that they belong together. Scout steals the show and seems to be the only one that can see straight to the heart of the matter proving his point whether he has to do some mischievous deed or use his protective instincts. Even if you are one that doesn’t care for dogs (heaven forbid), you will wish you could have him come live with you and love you as wholeheartedly as he does Heath, Lexi and the new baby. Heidi McCahan will have you feeling all your emotions as she leads you to a happily ever after. The wonderful thread of faith in this inspirational story, shows us how in difficult situations some can stay strong in their faith and other’s may waive a bit. It’s through God’s love and sharing of one’s faith to another through word and example that all will come back to him. Although part of the series, HER ALASKAN COMPANION can definitely be read as a standalone book. It’s most definitely FIVE STAR reading!

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

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This stand alone in the series is a sweet, touching, clean Christian romance that takes the readers to an island in Alaska. A place where the townspeople support each other and create a bond. This story belongs to Heath Donovan and Lexi Thomas.
Heath, a policeman, moved to Alaska to get away from the reminder of his father’s death and the potential illness he may be carrying. One that has him vowing never to have a serious relationship.
Lexi, a pregnant widow, moved to the home she and her deceased husband had purchased next to Heath. Originally it was a place where they could stay while visiting her new found family, but for Lexi it was now home.
Scout , Heath’s goldendoodle, brings these two together after he literally runs Lexi over. As they get to know each other, thanks to Scout, feelings develop. But Heath’s reluctancy to tell Lexi about the possibility of carrying the Huntington’s genes, creates friction between these two.
Will Heath open his heart to God and trust that Lexi is truly the one for him, or will he turn his back on God, happiness , hope and new beginnings?
At times heartbreaking , it was also heartwarming and who doesn’t love a story in which a dog and a child are involved.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Harlequin. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet story!

When Lexi moves to Alaska, she’s pregnant and widowed. Her husband was killed by an IED just 3 months ago, so she moved to the home they’d purchased near her family. She begins a friendship with her next door neighbor Heath, also new to the island but with a secret. They’re both aware they’re not in a position to start a relationship.

Scout, Heath’s rambunctious golden doodle is enamored with Lexi and wants to spend time with her. She agrees to dogsit him, which also helps strengthen their bond.

I enjoyed this story. There are light mentions of faith and prayer, but not much. There’s a theme of family and how important it is to make the most of each day and each person in your life, since the future isn’t guaranteed to anyone.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

[Paul Goble · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sometimes I enjoy a Love Inspired romance, but this one was definitely not my cup of tea.

Characters - Heath, Scout, and Lexi

What I liked - The writing and editing were competent. The dog had a strong supporting role. Although not richly portrayed, I enjoyed the Alaskan setting.

What I didn't like - The characters often lacked the skills and knowledge I would expect given their backgrounds. Heath's personality was inconsistent with any guy I have ever met. Although the humans were affectionate toward the dog, they didn't do a very good job of training, caring for, or protecting the dog (for example, leaving the dog unsupervised in bear country).

Possibly recommended for light romance with a canine supporting character. Not recommended for readers who are particular about realistic details, male readers, or people looking for educational or literary value.

[Lori R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a beautiful, sweet romance that made me want to visit Orca Island in Alaska. I really liked that Scout, Heath's Goldendoodle, played matchmaker in the story when Lexi moved next door to Heath. Lexi's reason for moving and starting over in Hearts Bay was inspirational. I liked her strength and courage. It was also a story about Huntington's disease that was quite emotional and interesting to learn about. Heath's dad had died from the disease and he was trying to decide if he wanted to be tested for the gene, I really liked this book because of the story, the characters, the faith, and the beautiful setting in Alaska. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute heartwarming romance with a canine matchmaker, who brought a smile to my face.

Scout is a friendly and mischievous golden doodle, who loves to sneak out and visit Lexi, Heath an Scout's next door neighbor, who is widowed and pregnant. A sweet romance with a cute premise. I could see why Heath was more hesitant to risk his heart, but it was fun seeing a softer side of him as he got to know Lexi.

An enjoyable story about giving love a chance, and finding love with the help of dog. Heartwarming with great themes of faith and a dramatic ending to boot! A great little quick and sweet read.

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

[Carolyn Frazier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Alaskan Companion is a sweet story of Lexi who is struggling to find her way in a new place as a soon-to-be widowed mom, Heath who is a confirmed bachelor struggling to trust God with his life, and Scout who is Heath's rambunctious matchmaking dog. I love how Scout is the first to see that these two troubled people need each other.

This is the first book I have read by Heidi McCahan but I ordered the previous three books in the Home to Hearts Bay series before I even finished this one. Although in a series, this book works as a standalone too. If you like stories of faith and overcoming obstacles, you will enjoy reading about Lexi, Heath, and Scout.

[Elaine Applebury · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet read! This heartwarming story pits a pregnant widow and her neighbor against the neighbor’s goldendoodle, Scout. Lexi Thomas has come to Hearts Bay to be near her biological family, the Maddens. Police officer Heath Donovan has moved to Hearts Bay for a fresh start. Here he hopes to keep his secret. Neither person is looking for a relationship, but rascally Scout has different ideas! This is the 4th book in Heidi McCahan’s Home to Hearts Bay series. It can be read as a stand alone, but do yourself a favor and read them all, preferably in order, as the characters from previous books are involved.

[Keren Herrera-Lyles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a sweet story. With two characters that are suffering but with the help of a cute dog they find their way to happiness and each other.

Lexi, a young widow pregnant woman and Heath with a torn faith and broken heart come together as next door neighbors. Both new to Alaska they find friendship and strong feelings. But will both hurting hearts find peace and love..... until a silly goldendoodle with his brown eyes finds a way into their hearts and opens a chance for possibilities that they dared not to explore. A charming sweet story that you will enjoy.

I received a copy from the author. A positive review was not required. All stated here are my own opinion

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The main characters in this Heidi McCahan book are Lexi Thomas, Heath Donovan and a Goldendoodle named Scout. I've been to Alaska and it makes a great backdrop for this story. Lexi, a pregnant widow and Heath, a bachelor and Hearts Bay police officer, become neighbors. Lexi ends up dog sitting for Heath while she tries to get her photography business going. Neither Heath or Lexi are interested in a romance, but destiny has other plans. This is an easy to read, well written Love Inspired Inspirational Romance with likable characters, a picturesque setting, secrets, and a HEA.