Historical Romance Book Review: Calling on the Matchmaker

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About the Book

Title: Calling on the Matchmaker 

Series: A Shanahan Match, Book 1 

Author: Jody Hedlund 

Genre: Historical Romance 

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 

Release Date: December 12, 2023

Click here to purchase a copy of this novel.

Publisher's 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.”

 

My Review

Calling on the Matchmaker, by Jody Hedlund, is the first book in A Shanahan Match series. Captivating and truly meaningful, this novel certainly impresses with its vivid setting, compelling characters, and engrossing plot. With a stunning combination of history, adventure, and romance, this book is an absolute pleasure to read! 

 

A prolific writer and gifted storyteller, Ms. Hedlund has succeeded yet again in crafting a novel that is truly enjoyable and utterly entertaining. From beginning to end, her writing in this book is expressive and immersive. The settings that form the vital backdrop of every scene are described with a keen attention to detail, and prove to be quite essential to the story itself.  

 

And within the settings, the characters in this book really come alive. In the most interesting of ways, they gradually reveal their hearts' desires and even their true natures. Page after page, these characters are memorable and authentic as they seek forgiveness, redemption, and a stronger faith. Their hopes, concerns, insecurities, and convictions are meaningful and moving, making it quite easy to become thoroughly invested in the characters’ stories and the plot details that flow from them.  

 

From beginning to end, I was wholly engaged by this remarkable story of peril, hope, courage, compassion, and second chances. Rich with detail, drama, and plenty of sweet romance, this book is well-written and edifying. Calling on the Matchmaker is certainly a special novel, and I recommend it wholeheartedly. I am very happy to have read it, and I am definitely looking forward to reading the next book in this series. 

 

*I was given a copy of this book from the publisher/author and from NetGalley. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

 

About the Author: Jody Hedlund

“Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over forty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle.” --Biography from Jody Hedlund’s author page on Amazon.com

Click here to visit Jody Hedlund's website.

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