Calling on the Matchmaker
series: Shanahan Match, A
About
"Jody Hedlund's novels are a joy to read."--ELIZABETH CAMDEN, RITA and Christy Award-winning author
"A historical romance reader's delight. Treat yourself! Jody Hedlund does not disappoint."--ROBIN LEE HATCHER, Christy Award-winning author
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.
Endorsements
"Calling on the Matchmaker is a delightful, heartwarming love story filled with admirable people, charming Irish traditions, and the culture of 19th century St. Louis. Despite its light-hearted tone, there is poignancy and heartbreak just beneath the surface as two wounded souls learn to trust each other. As always, Jody Hedlund's novels are a joy to read."
Elizabeth Camden, RITA and Christy Award-winning author
"From the opening rescue scene covered in mud, through the slow-burn love story and the trials and disappointments of life in the mid-1800s, to that wonderful promise of HEA, Calling on the Matchmaker is a historical romance reader's delight. Treat yourself! Jody Hedlund does not disappoint."
Robin Lee Hatcher, Christy Award-winning author of To Marry an English Lord and To Enchant a Lady's Heart
"With its sizzling chemistry, rich detail, and compelling action, Jody Hedlund has once again raised the bar in Calling on the Matchmaker. Readers will be drawn to the fiercely independent Finola Shanahan, but we'll be swooning over Riley Rafferty for years to come."
Misty M. Beller, USA Today bestselling author
The Author
Reviews
"Hedlund seems to have a hit no matter what time period she writes, and this book is no exception. With its strong supporting characters set to continue this new series, readers will appreciate a unique U.S. immigrant story not set on the coasts. Fans of historical fare from Karen Witemeyer and Regina Jennings will want to open up this matchmaking adventure."
Library Journal
"Hedlund's textured historical backdrop brings the city's Irish tenements to life, and the romance between Finola and Riley . . . is a treat. Readers will revel in this charming romp."
Publishers Weekly
Hedlund sparkles in the first book in her Shanahan Match series. . . . Set in St. Louis in 1849, the story depicts the hardships suffered by Irish immigrants, and the cheeky matchmaker is sure to be a recurring highlight of this promising series.
Booklist