Historical Romance Book Review: A Wager with the Matchmaker

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About the Book

Title: A Wager with the Matchmaker 

Series: A Shanahan Match 

Author: Jody Hedlund 

Genre: Historical Romance 

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 

Release Date: May 6, 2025

Click here to purchase a copy of this novel. 

 

Publisher's Book Description

“After her brother's entanglement with an Irish gang threatens their family's safety, Alannah Darragh flees St. Louis and her troubled past, seeking refuge as a maid for the affluent Shanahan family. Alannah's resolve to avoid romance is tested by the undeniable attraction she feels for Kiernan Shanahan. Determined to maintain her position and the safety it provides, she vows to resist the pull of her heart despite the growing bond between them and their undeniable chemistry.  

 

In the wake of a devastating fire, Kiernan Shanahan sees a shrewd opportunity to invest in a clay mine and brickyard to aid the city's rebuilding. To secure his venture, he seeks a wealthy bride with a substantial dowry. However, the matchmaker he consults has different plans. As danger looms and Alannah fights to keep her brother safe, Kiernan's protective instincts draw them closer, but a future together seems too far out of reach. It will take a miracle--or a wager with the wily matchmaker--to form a match between the unlikely couple.” 

My Review

A Wager with the Matchmaker, by Jody Hedlund, is the third book in A Shanahan Match series. Ms. Hedlund is a master storyteller, and her historical fiction novels always shine with entertaining and compelling details. In this novel, her writing is captivating and memorable. Featuring plenty of history, intrigue, suspense, and romance, this book successfully engages the reader’s emotions and imagination. The St. Louis setting, the varied characters, and the immersive descriptions all add depth and thoughtfulness to a touching story. From beginning to end, it is a truly enjoyable novel. 

 

Notably, the characters in this book are quite remarkable, and they make this book special. Throughout the novel, they show themselves to be relatable, likable, smart, and interesting. They add believable touches of vulnerability and authenticity to the story. Their losses and insecurities are genuine and moving and provide real insight into their actions and motivations. As the story unfolds and the characters encounter difficulties and dangers, they begin to begin to embrace their desires and their purpose. Page after page, the novel grows more inspiring and thought-provoking as the characters find that a fresh start might be possible for them after all. 

 

A Wager with the Matchmaker features relevant settings, dynamic characters, and dramatic moments that are not to be missed. Brimming with detail, drama, and plenty of sweet romance, it is a moving story of love, hope, danger, courage, and second chances. Well-written and uplifting, I am happy to recommend it, and I am definitely looking forward to enjoying 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 sixty sweet historical romances and is the winner of numerous awards. She lives in central Michigan with her husband and is the mother of five wonderful children and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.” --Biography from Jody Hedlund’s website.

Click here to visit Jody Hedlund's website. 

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