Reading with Emily: Calling on the Matchmaker

QUICK FACTS

Title: Calling on the Matchmaker

Series: A Shanahan Match (Book 1)

Author: Jody Hedlund

Genre: Historical Romance, American Historical Romance, Inspirational Fiction

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (December 12, 2023)

Length: (304) pages

Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, & Audiobook

ISBN: 978-0764241963‎

Tour Dates: December 11 – 20, 2023

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Haunted by the death of her sister, Finola Shanahan has resolved that she's not worthy of a family of her own and commits to spending her days caring for immigrants in the slums. When Finola sabotages yet another unwanted relationship her parents arranged for her, her father calls upon the local Irish matchmaker, who pairs her with successful wagonmaker Riley Rafferty. Finola quickly realizes her usual tricks won't work on him, however, as she cannot outsmart or outwit the dashing, determined, and daring man.

A candidate in the St. Louis mayoral election, Riley is confident a union with the wealthy Shanahan family will help solidify his chances of winning--and even more assured he and Finola can make a difference together. When a cholera outbreak begins to take St. Louis by storm, they must navigate a burgeoning attraction and growing danger testing all they know about love and sacrifice.

BOOK REVIEW

This book was oh so good. I enjoyed every minute. The sparks between this couple were flying almost immediately even as they had their own reasons for pushing each other away.

Jody Hedlund has another winner here. The matchmaker is a bit unexpected and completely manipulative in all the good ways, The couple is resisting each other as hard as they are attracted to each other. This book was pure entertainment.

Finola tries to do everything she can to atone for her guilt after the death of her sister and Riley needs to marry to boost his campaign though he has vowed not to marry again, as they fight each other off, it is clear to the reader that they need each other.

This was a strong story that seems to be setting up a series because I could definitely see what else our matchmaker has in store.

If you love immigrant stories, romance, and the building of America, this has it all. If you don't like those elements, it is still a wonderful story.

I highly recommend this story!

I received an early copy of this story from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest review.

PRAISE FOR CALLING ON THE MATCHMAKER

“Hedlund’s textured historical backdrop brings the city’s Irish tenements to life, and the romance between Finola and Riley, full of longing and barely contained passion (“She was like a fire burning down a building. And he was walking straight into the flames”), is a treat. Readers will revel in this charming romp.”— Publisher’s Weekly
“SOOO CRAZY GOOD!!! Absolutely loved this book - one of my new favorites from this author!”— Marilee, Marilee Loves to Read
“Sizzling chemistry, rich detail, and compelling action.”— Misty M. Beller, USA Today bestselling author

PURCHASE LINKS

AUTHOR BIO

Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of over fifty novels and is the winner of numerous awards. Jody lives in Michigan with her husband, busy family, and five spoiled cats. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle.