A Steadfast Companion

K-9 Companions #12

by Myra Johnson

Offering a helping hand…

Could give him everything he needs.

Fighting his way back from a troubled past, handyman Angus “Witt” Wittenbauer needs refuge. When dog sanctuary owner Maddie McNeill needs someone to fix her kennel’s roof, it seems like the answer to his prayers, especially when he’s reunited with his long-lost dog, Ranger. His growing friendship with Maddie hints at the promise of something more, but will Witt ever feel deserving of love again?

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 8: The Cowboy's Journey Home by Linda Goodnight
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 13: The Rancher's Sanctuary by Linda Goodnight
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

Genres: Christian Fiction, Love Inspired, Contemporary Romance, Dogs, Christian Romance

224 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published February 21, 2023

About the author

Native Texan Myra Johnson writes emotionally gripping stories about love, life, and faith. Myra is a three-time Maggie Awards finalist, two-time finalist for the prestigious ACFW Carol Awards, winner of Christian Retailing’s Best for historical fiction, and winner in the Inspirational category of the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Awards.

After living five years in Oklahoma, then eight years in the beautiful Carolinas, Myra and her husband are thrilled to be back in the Lone Star State enjoying wildflowers, Tex-Mex, and real Texas barbecue! The Johnsons share their home with a very pampered rescue dog and a cat with attitude.

Follow Myra on BookBub, https://www.bookbub.com/profile/myra-..., for deals and new releases.

Awards of note: When the Clouds Roll By, Till We Meet Again, Book 1 (Abingdon Press 2013), won the historical fiction category of the 2014 Christian Retailing's Best Award. Autumn Rains (Heartsong Presents 2009), won the 2005 RWA Golden Heart for Best Inspirational Romance Manuscript.

Myra’s writing career was launched in 1985 when she sold her first short story while taking a course through the Institute of Children’s Literature. Myra later joined the ICL staff as a magazine writing instructor, teaching hundreds of students the fundamentals of story and article structure, plotting, character development, and market analysis. She now writes full-time and is active in her church as well as local and national writers groups.

Myra and her husband have been married for 50+ years. The Johnsons have two married daughters, seven grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.

Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a sucker for sweet dogs with endearing personalities, and they abounded in A Steadfast Companion! All mix-and-manner of breeds have found a refuge with Maddie McNeill, and the one thing they all have in common is that no one else wanted them. Whether it be their age or their physical ailments (or both), the dogs at Eventide had nowhere else to go – and Maddie is bound and determined to make sure they always have a home there. If only she could afford some help… or was good at fundraising.

Enter Witt. Gentle, kindhearted, handyman Witt who is trying to get back on his feet after a series of events that left him struggling to cope. I loved his character and the way he treated Maddie, and it was as easy for me to fall for him as it was for Maddie. Something that honestly surprised me because I tend to not enjoy reading about heroes over 50 as much, but boy did Witt (just barely over 50) ever set up camp in my heart anyway. And while we’re on this subject, it was kinda nice having a heroine who is my age (well below 50, I might add… though not as well below as I’d like haha). These two are a bit more settled and mature than perhaps a couple in their 20s or 30s, but that doesn’t mean it’s all smooth sailing. Not by a long shot. Both Maddie & Witt have emotional backstories to work through if they’re going to have a chance at a happily-ever-after, and I really enjoyed how the author crafted their relationship journey.

Bottom Line: A Steadfast Companion by Myra Johnson is a beautifully tender romance with a heartfelt message of restoration and grace. In fact, the word ‘steadfast’ is exactly how I’d describe Witt as a hero and his loyal dog for that matter… and this character trait is definitely what Maddie needs to heal her own heart-wounds. Johnson’s writing voice is warm and engaging, and she effortlessly draws you into the story and these compelling characters – of the two and four legged varieties. A lovely read in every way.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[SARAH TAYLOR · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Steadfast Companion by Myra Johnson! As Maddie McNeill is in need for someone to fix her roof on her dog sanctuary can she come to face her past and have handyman Angus Witt to help her do repairs to her kennel! When Witt needs a place to live can Maddie trust enough to let him help her do the repairs and give him a place to live! This book was such a great story I gave it a 5 star and I highly recommend this book! I was given a complimentary copy and this is my own honest opinion.

[Sherida Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartwarming story filled with hope! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A Steadfast Companion offers an uplifting story of perseverance through challenging times….and finding love and contentment. The characters really touched my heart. Handyman Whit is a kind and honest man, even after his life was destroyed while trying to do the right thing. Struggling with financial problems, Maddie McNeill is hardworking as she attempts to keep her grandmother’s senior dog rescue sanctuary open. And Ranger is the perfect “man’s best friend” watching out for and supporting his owner. Secondary characters in the community of Elk Valley, Montana, offer small town warmth and friendship.

Besides the engaging story of overcoming difficulties, I enjoyed a romance with older characters. What a great combination this couple makes….each giving selflessly and encouraging the other. The epilogue provides a charming ending to this sweet story. Author Myra Johnson gives us a compelling message of faith and hope in A Steadfast Companion.

Favorite quote: “There’s always hope, my friend. We worship a God of hope. Hope and second chances and forgiveness beyond measure.”

*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m delighted to offer my honest opinion.

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked this book. Its refreshing to read romance books about people in their 40s and 50s.

[Carolyn Frazier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maddie McNeil owns a senior dog sanctuary in need of repair. "Witt" Wittenbauer is a handyman with a troubled past needing a place to stay. When he shows up to work at the sanctuary, he is reunited with the dog he lost 2 years earlier. Can these two overcome past hurts and transgressions to find love again?
If you love dogs, second chances, forgiveness, reunions, and overcoming past transgressions this is the book for you!
This is an excellent story that shows how faith in God leads to second chances and redemption. I went through all the emotions while reading this book - I laughed, cried, empathized, and rejoiced. Overall, this is an uplifting, inspirational story and I highly recommend this book. I received an advance copy from the author. This review is my honest opinion.

[Myra Johnson]

Update 3/16/2023: Two weeks now on the Publishers Weekly Mass Market Bestseller List! Thanks to all my readers!

Update 3/3/2023: A Steadfast Companion is officially out in the world! Thank you to all my early reviewers! If you'd like keep abreast of my writing news, please consider subscribing to my newsletter. https://myrajohnson.com/newsletter-si...

Update 1/23/2023: As early reviews come in, I'm thrilled to see the response the book has received thus far! These characters came to mean so much to me over the course of writing this novel, and I'm glad to know they're resonating with readers as well.

Update: The first of my author copies are beginning to arrive! It's always so exciting to hold the published book in my hands. And I just LOVE the picture of "Ranger" on the cover! He is one VERY special dog!

I'd be so grateful if you'd add this book to your "want to read" list! Thanks!!! 😍
---
I'm thrilled that the first book in my new series set in Montana will also be book #12 in Love Inspired's K-9 Companion series! I so enjoyed writing this novel featuring a very special dog who brings together two people wounded by love and life.

The book will release in ebook and paperback in February 2023! Please add it to your "want to read" list. Thanks!

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

New author to me.
An okay read .. but not good timing for this reader.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a dog lover, love a bit of clean romance and believe that God works things out for your good, then this is definitely the book for you!
When Maddie called Witt to fix her kennel roof, it started the ball rolling for both of them! She was running low on money to keep the kennel going and he was trying to get his life back together from a tumultuous past.
Will they be able to help one another or will the “ghosts on the couch” from their pasts keep them from finding their way?
This was a beautifully written story that I just couldn’t stop reading! Wonderful characters, redemption story, and realistic situations that make this a 5 star read for me. This is my first read by this author, but I see many more in my future!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author. My opinions are my own.

[Janice Airhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone deserves a second chance to prove themselves. In Myra Johnson’s newest book, A Steadfast Companion, handyman Witt Wittenbauer is in need of a second chance. Fortunately, he meets several encouraging people who help him pick up the pieces from a disastrous event that destroyed his family. One of those people is Maddie McNeill, the owner of a dog sanctuary, whose barn is in need of repair. Unbeknownst to Maddie, Witt’s beloved dog, Ranger, is among the rescues she cares for. Ranger and Witt were separated two years before Witt answers a call to repair Maddie’s leaky roof, and he is astonished to find his former companion among the sanctuary’s residents. The regal German Shepherd becomes one more critical factor in Witt’s healing.

As a dog-lover, I’m drawn to stories that feature the wonderful characteristics of dogs in helping humans heal. Johnson’s handling of these characters—human and canine—demonstrates her appreciation for what the animals in our lives can do for us. She also skillfully sets up the inevitable misunderstandings and unintended slights between people that leave readers eager to witness forgiveness and restoration.

In addition to accidentally reuniting Witt with Ranger, Maddie is instrumental in initiating a reunion between Witt and his children. Their reconciliation frees Witt to forge a new relationship with Maddie, whom he’s come to love. A Steadfast Companion is a satisfying read, confirming our faith in the value of giving others second chances and reinforcing the important role our canine companions play in our well-being.

[Heather Pickett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Myra Johnson takes us on a wonderful visit of redemption, forgiveness, and trust in her newest, A Steadfast Companion. This book is a stand-alone, wonderful addition to the Love Inspired K-9 Companions stories.
Maddie McNeill runs Eventide, a struggling dog sanctuary she took on after the death of the grandmother who raised her. Her heart is 110% in for the dogs, but she struggles with figuring out how to get donations to stay afloat. Maddie’s also turned away from the Lord, bitter about financial ruin coming to her grandparents after they were swindled several years before their deaths.
Angus “Witt” Wittenbauer, a handyman, arrives at Eventide one day to fix the damaged kennel roof. Witt is a believer, but his heart will never be whole until he can forgive himself for his actions 8 years prior. Since then, with the Lord’s guiding hand, he’s made great strides in turning his life around.
It turns out Witt needs a place to live, fast, and Maddie has many more odd jobs needing done around the sanctuary, so they come to an agreement for him to live in the room above her barn in exchange for meals and repairs.
As Witt and Maddie get to know one another, they grow closer. Can the Lord work through each of their hearts to fill the hole each has before they can turn those hearts toward a life with one another? I read this in one day, and you’ll want to, as well!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.

[Harlequin Books]

Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Animal Fiction, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
K-9 Companions (Book #12)

[Harlequin Books]

Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Animal Fiction, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
K-9 Companions (Book #12)

[Kris Horstman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Steadfast Companion by Myra Johnson is part of the k-9 companion series. I love the k-9 companion books, though they aren't connected in anyway besides that they have dogs in them. I love dogs, so perfect for me. The book starts off with an impending April snowstorm in Montana. Maddie McNeil desperately needs her dog kennel roof fixed before the big storm. She runs a dog sanctuary. Handyman Angus "Witt" Wittenbauer comes to the rescue. After he fixes the roof as best he can before the storm hits, he is reunited with his long lost dog Ranger who Maddie was taken care of at the sanctuary. Both Maddie and Witt desperately need something. She needs help to trust and hope again. Witt needs help to feel he is deserving of the 2nd chance he's got. Will they both realize they are each other's answer to their prayers?
This is my very first Myra Johnson book. She is a new to me author. Right away when I started reading this book, I realized her books were a little different. Well, this one was different. Both her main characters are older. They are in their late 40s-early 50s. I absolutely love this. It's rare to find a love inspired book with the mains being around my age. I love reading about the younger folk, but I really loved reading about this relatively "older" couple finding life again. They both have substantial baggage, so you know these are complex characters trying to find their way again and it's interesting. I also loved Ranger (Witt's dog). He was so loyal to his person. The dogs were really a character of their own in this book. It made me happy reading about how they took care of these elderly dogs and just loved them. So often elderly dogs are overlooked and unloved. It breaks my heart to think about it. Witt and Maddie, though they loved them so much. Of course, this amazing story had an epilogue. I cried so much. Happy tears though. It was such a great ending. I hope this continues as a series or maybe it is a series. I'm not sure. But I feel Julia (Maddie's best friend) needs to find a love of her own. I hope you'll consider reading this great book about these "older" folks. We need more stories like this in the love inspired line. I was given a copy of the book, but all opinions are my very own!

[Kay Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A STEADFAST COMPANION by Myra Johnson is the 12th book in the K-9 Companions series. It is the heart tugging, compelling story of Maddie McNeill, owner of Eventide Dog Sanctuary, and Angus Nathaniel “Witt” Wittenbauer, handyman.

At 46, Maddie figures her chance at romance, marriage and - with her biological clock about to stop - a family are behind her. She didn’t think twice about giving up her teaching position and moving back to help her grandparents. Her love of animals meant this was the perfect place for her to be. After her father disappeared and her mother was a failure as a parent, her grandparent had raised Maddie. For which, she will always be thankful for. With the passing of her Nana, she became the sole owner in her grandmother’s beloved dog sanctuary for senior dogs or those no one wanted where her creed had been that every dog deserved to live out their last days loved and cared for. Always being one to do things on her own, Maddie’s found out she’s in need of some help, but who or where? She’s always loved the sanctuary. She would never consider the dogs or Nana’s two horses a problem, but there’s more going out than coming in. There’s a pile of bills, food for the animals to buy, utilities to keep on, and maintenance to do - like the roof over the kennel, and donors taking away their support. Nana had always been the promoter and the one getting grants. How is she going to keep things going?

Witt, at 51, is trying hard, with God’s help, to rebuild his life. In a disastrous event years ago, he had been a whistleblower in federal case against his employers, it was advised that his testimony be anonymous so that he and his family wouldn’t receive retaliatory actions. Not even his wife or two kids knew his actions in order to keep them safe. However, it ended up not only costing him his employment, but also his family who considered him as guilty as his bosses of milking all those poor folks out of their money. Lack of income, loss of his family and depression all led to him becoming an alcoholic, homeless and about to give up hope. It was his dog Ranger that had kept him going. Homeless and sick, animal control took his dog as he was taken to the hospital in an ambulance. Losing his beloved dog was almost his undoing. If not for his counselor Carl, living at the transitional home and being employed by Happy’s Helpers, no idea where he might be or if he would still be alive. Getting the call from Maddie needing a handyman was the best thing that could have ever happened to him – in more ways than one – with the first being reunited with his beloved Ranger.

Maddie seemed to see in Witt’s eyes that he is a gentle man, but one with a troubled past. With her trust issue from a very bad relationship, he will definitely have to earn her trust. Starting to work at the sanctuary, felt like a whole new beginning for Witt, but he still can’t think of himself as worthy of a “normal” life feeling responsible in some way for all those poor folks that lost their money. Maybe if he had said something sooner many could have been saved heartache. While Maddie may have a best friend in the local veterinary and Will considers his councilor at the home a friend, can these two people that are really all alone find that they really need each other? Will their common love of dogs, bring them closer together? Can Witt draw Maddie out of being the behind the scene person so that she’s comfortable being the person out front promoting the sanctuary? Can he prove to her that her doodles are really works of art worthy of selling? Can Maddie be instrumental in closing the divide between Witt and his children? Can she show him her true feelings and his worth in her life? What will it take for Witt to lay the past behind him, to accept that to feel worthy, it takes one’s own heartfelt belief alongside God’s hand to accomplish such a goal? Can Maddie and Witt find their way to a happily ever after?

A STEADFAST COMPANION is a fabulous, can’t put down book that shows you that with God’s help there is no problem too big to handle, that true love comes to people of all ages, and to be effective in one’s goals or to be worth, one has to believe in it oneself first. Myra Johnson wrote such a sweet, compelling story that I believe it’s a book for everyone – whether a lover of a Christian romance, an animal lover, a believer in second chances and never giving up and for those that love a story that gives you that “Oh my that was a fabulous book!” feeling. FIVE STAR reading at its best!

I receive a copy this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#ASteadfastCompanion # K9Companions #MyraJohnson #LoveInspired #InspirationalRomance #mustread

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

Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance

A Steadfast Companion is one of those books that draws you in from the opening chapter and never really lets go until the final page. And even then, Maddie and Witt will be on your mind for a while longer. Of course, Ranger won my heart for his devotion and love for one man, one broken man who needs his dog at his side to help him heal.

I would call Maddie and Witt wounded souls for different reasons. Witt has hit rock bottom and is slowly climbing his way back up a slippery mountain of regret. He made choices in the past, some for the betterment of others and some that he had to remain quiet about. It was his silence that eventually destroyed his previous life, and the guilt that he hadn’t done enough, soon enough that follows him to this day. Maddie had been emotionally destroyed by a man who had lived a lie, and then the passing of her beloved grandmother only added to her grief for a life that wasn’t to be lived the way she’d envisioned. She has the responsibility of her grandmother’s dream, the sanctuary for aging dogs, the unwanted ones, for the hopeless ones. It’s a hard life in many ways, although reward comes in different ways than from a paycheck… but the sanctuary needs funding, and Maddie has no idea how she can keep the doors open much longer.

Watching Maddie and Witt grow closer, overcome the initial mistrust of Maddie, and the wariness of Witt as they became friends and began to heal from their pasts was an emotional journey that I’m so glad I didn’t miss. Mistakes were made, but they were thinking of someone else’s situation instead of the cruel kind of mistakes. Good intentions sometimes backfire, and this couple had to face a few of those situations before their future could come to pass. I enjoyed this story immensely, and if you love a well-written, inspirational romance with all the emotions you could ever wish for then this one is for you.

I own a Kindle edition of this title.

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was a delightful surprise. A short contemporary story set in Montana dealing with redemption and new beginnings. And dogs! Lots of them.

Maddie McNeill, a forty-something single woman, runs a small sanctuary for unwanted dogs which she inherited from her recently deceased grandparents. Unfortunately, the sanctuary has seen better days and Maddie is struggling to keep it and herself afloat.

Enter Witt, the handyman, who attends a job at the sanctuary repairing the roof over the barn that houses the dogs. He’s lost, a recovering alcoholic, homeless and living day to day. Witt is also full of shame and guilt for what he put his family through, a family who kicked him out of home seven years ago.

Johnson draws these two together, firstly, as landlord and tenant, co-workers and dog lovers. Their mutual love for dogs draws them together, with one of Maddie’s dogs having a special attachment to Witt.

Slowly, they begin to trust each other but trusting themselves is a bigger problem because of their pasts. Maddie hasn’t had much luck with men and Witt’s lost his wife and two children through his mistakes.

But God is a God of second chances of redemption and forgiveness. It’s quite lovely to read. Both of their outlooks improve, Maddie’s artistic talent helping her grow a new revenue stream for the sanctuary and Witt’s handyman services being in greater demand. This brings stability but still the mistakes of the past haunt them both.

The last forty or so pages are lovely to read. It’s especially lovely to reflect on Maddie’s persistence, on willingness to trust God and her own judgement about Witt. He really is a good man.

For such a short story (162 pages) Johnson’s emphasis on the spiritual side of both of her leads is excellent to read and much needed in Christian fiction. It was very natural and didn’t feel at all forced as often can happen.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my — gobsmacked over this emotional romance that tugged at my heart and buoyed up my spirits. I got teary-eyed on page 24 and that wasn’t the only time during this read. Witt’s story is so…gah, I can’t say anything without sharing spoilers so all I will say is you’d have to have a heart of stone to not feel a connection with this hero!

And the whole idea of a dog sanctuary, where aging, ailing or ‘unadoptable’ dogs can find a fur-ever home. Well, there goes the waterworks again! But Maddie has been struggling to bounce back from some losses and the sanctuary is perilously low on funds. She needs a miracle and that might just be Witt. You’ll have to read the book to find out.

This Love Inspired features ‘older’ (than the norm, anyway) characters. Witt is fifty-one and Maddie is in her mid forties or so. I was surprised at how much depth that brought to the story because that’s a lot of life lived, mistakes made, struggles to overcome…well, it just made this romance that much richer. And the redemptive faith thread is so beautiful.

Absolutely stunning addition to the multi-authored K-9 Companions series.

https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/02/24/a...

[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm so happy to discover this 'new to me' author! Myra Johnson shares a heartwarming story of two people who've experienced hard knocks and tremendous hurts but have still managed to endure. I loved the strong love and commitment that Maddie McNeill offers the unwanted dogs in her care, and Witt Wittenbaurer is truly an overcomer! Learning his backstory made him even more endearing and I kept rooting for someone to recognize his true worth. Can Maddie's wounded heart find healing from this kind, generous man? Will Witt's Christian witness help restore the faith she once had?

If you enjoy lovable dogs, second chances, midlife romance, and the joy that comes from forgiveness and redemption, grab a copy of A Steadfast Companion. I loved this contemporary Christian romance and I'll be searching for more books by this author!

I received a complimentary copy from the author. I am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.

[Kathie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witt is a man with a dark past, but has been redeemed by his faith in Jesus...except he is still bound to his past mistakes. He knows that God has forgiven him but he cannot forgive himself. Maddie has partially recovered from some past trauma but cannot forgive the company that scammed her grandparents out of their savings or the way her ex hurt her. It's a good story with situations that many can identify with.

From the back cover: "Offering a helping hand…could give him everything he needs.

Fighting his way back from a troubled past, handyman Angus “Witt” Wittenbauer needs refuge. When dog sanctuary owner Maddie McNeill needs someone to fix her kennel’s roof, it seems like the answer to his prayers, especially when he’s reunited with his long-lost dog, Ranger. His growing friendship with Maddie hints at the promise of something more, but will Witt ever feel deserving of love again?"

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much! I enjoyed reading a romance with older characters (late 40s early 50s) since I am also older. Witt and Maddie are well-written characters who've been through (and are still going through) hurtful and terrible ordeals. I loved the senior dog rescue theme too because all dogs need love! If I had hundreds of acres, I'd have an animal rescue on it! Of course, I'd have to have lots of funding which is a struggle Maddie faces. Witt helps her look for an out of the box solution for funding, but it takes Maddie out of her comfort zone. Sometimes we need to get out of ours too! It's not fun, but like Maddie finds out, it can bring us and others great joy when we do. Witt's faith was very encouraging, and I felt like he taught me a thing or two about trusting God's timing and provision. I highly recommend this encouraging, sweet romance!

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maddie McNeill owns a dog sanctuary that she inherited from her grandmother. It specializes in senior dogs and dogs that are difficult to place in a new home for other reasons. She's already struggling to keep the sanctuary afloat and then comes a night when her kennel roof begins leaking as an enormous snowfall is about to occur. She calls the handyman whose rate is the lowest and who can arrive the quickest.

Angus “Witt” Wittenbauer has been living in a transitional house since he recovered from a serious bout of pneumonia he acquired two years ago while he was homeless. Struggling to find somewhere to live now that his allotted two years to live at the house is almost up and still devastated from the loss of his dog Ranger when he was taken off the streets and to the hospital for treatment, he is working as a handyman. When he accepts the job to fix a roof, he has no idea it's about to set him on a course for a new beginning with an old friend and maybe a new love.
 
This was a good book with solid themes about recovering a sense of self-worth and learning to heal from the past. I really liked that this book's hero and heroine were in their forties and fifties and good use was made of their life experiences to grow the story. There was one "plot twist" that you'll probably see coming from a mile away, but for me it added to the tension of how Witt and Maddie were going to make their relationship work as I waited for the inevitable. I loved the parts with the dogs at the sanctuary and I thought the method that Maddie ultimately pursues to raise funds for the sanctuary was clever. It was good seeing her learn to accept and use a talent that she has a tendency to downplay and it was a good way to show how highly Witt thinks of her.

[Elaine Applebury · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story! Two hurt souls that find each other in an unusual, yet very believable way. Myra Johnson has put together a beautiful story with warm caring characters, and could the dogs be any more central to the storyline?
Maddie McNeill is trying to save her grandma’s shelter for special need and forgotten dogs. She needs the roof fixed, but isn’t sure where the money will come from to fix it. Wit Wittenbauer has lost everything as he tried to do “ the right thing.” Working as a handyman, he not only fixes Maddie’s roof, but finds a place to call home among her misfit dogs. Can two hurt souls find their way back?
“… when we let go of our own will and allow the Lord to direct our steps, there is always hope.”

[Linda Stringer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Steadfast Companion by Myra Johnson is book 12 in the K-9 Companions series. It’s a wonderful story about an older couple and second chances.
Maddie needs a handyman to fix her kennel’s roof. Witt is the handyman sent to fix her roof. In the course of conversation Witt reveals he needs a place to live. Maddie offers him a handyman position and the loft in her barn as a place to live.
Maddie has rescued a dog, Ranger, who turns out to be Witt’s long-lost furry companion. Witt and Ranger are overjoyed to have found each other. Will Witt and Maddie decide they are deserving of love and each other? Read A Steadfast Companion to find out.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Love

Maddie and Witt's story is one of finding love despite past trouble and hurts. Witt's mysterious and troubled background combined with Maddie past heartbreak make their road to happiness one full of ups and downs. I liked the fact that the main characters were a bit older, giving them a maturity I appreciated. And Ranger the dog was a great character in his own right. Definitely a good read.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The story is very inspirational. I really liked the characters and how they overcame their past issues. I loved how their relationship developed. I highly recommend this book.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed reading this book! The story is unique and full of surprises! The characters are wonderful! They are relatable and genuine. The dogs are the Best characters! They are true examples of how God loves us- completely and forever. A definite must read!

[Mary Baker · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novel is about a couple who are in their fifties who meet and fall in love. I didn't enjoy it as much as I usually enjoy books in the Love Inspired series. I do like the chance to pick large-print copies though.

[Cindy Quesenberry]

Awesome book

This book was well written. It showed God's mercy and forgiveness. I loved the main characters especially Witt. I'm an animal lover and loved the dogs in the book. I definitely recommend this book.

[Kaye Wingo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book