An Unexpected Companion by Mindy Obenhaus
Series:  K-9 Companions – Book 31 | Legacy Ranch – Book 1
Publisher:  Love Inspired
Release Date: April 1, 2025
Genre:  Contemporary Romance

With his dog by his side… Is a second chance within reach?

After losing his family and his leg in a car crash, widower Dirk Matthews dedicates his solitary life to woodworking and his mobility service dog, Molly. That is, until a troubled kid steals from his truck. Desperate to reach her grieving oldest son, widow Tessa Wagner agrees to have the boy help Dirk work on her family’s ranch. Only she doesn’t expect her own connection with the carpenter. Soon they’re feeling more than the shared loss of loved ones. But will past heartbreak stand in the way of their future?

PURCHASE LINKS:
Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon
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My Review and Reflections

This book is a warm, comforting read – perfect for a slow spring day. Dirk Matthews has already faced unimaginable loss, yet he leans on his faith as he builds a quiet life with his service dog, Molly. Tessa Wagner is still struggling with her loss, and her nine-year-old son, Grayson, has uncontrollable grief evidenced by his outbursts and issues at school.

This story is a slow burn, letting emotion sink in naturally. Dirk makes me smile with his thoughts about Tessa and the boys. If Tessa could hear his thoughts, she would throw herself on Dirk. Tessa has tried to take her life into her own hands and has stepped away from letting God remain in control, unlike Dirk, who is letting God lead the way.

Even though I haven’t faced this kind of loss, I felt pulled into Dirk and Tessa’s journey. Their emotions are raw and real. I loved watching their story unfold.

This book has messages of hope and healing, but it also speaks the truth – hope and healing don’t mean forgetting. It shows that with a new path forward, the hurt can lessen and allow new things to flourish. For all fans of Mindy’s and those who want to see the power of following God’s will, this is a must-read.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author.
All opinions are my own.

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About the Author

Best-selling author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching heartwarming romance movies.

Connect with Mindy by visiting MindyObenhaus.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.