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 readers 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.

This has been such a special series! I've enjoyed watching an Irish matchmaker work his magic for two members of the Shanahan family, but now, there's one more seeking his services! Kiernan Shanahan, with a long list of qualifications for an ideal wife, is finally ready to marry. Will he be surprised by the tricks in Bellamy McKenna's matchmaking arsenal?

I loved this book by one of my favorite authors, Jody Hedlund! It is set in 1849 St. Louis, during a time of suffering and tragedy surrounding a cholera outbreak and a great fire that destroyed much of the city. Hedlund's historical detail provides a powerful backdrop for the emotional upheaval of Kiernan and Alannah Darragh's budding relationship. A Wager for the Matchmaker has excellent character development, a captivating plot filled with history and faith, and a clean romance that sizzles with the chemistry between Kiernan and Alannah. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical Christian romance!

I received a copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

This strong heroine and protective hero meet their match (see what I did there?) in a sizzling forbidden love romance! Those who love the he falls first trope will love seeing Kiernan Shanahan fall head over heels for bookish and hardworking Alannah and do everything he can to win her. This great romance is also accompanied by a reminder of Gods great love and care for us as we deal with the trials of a fallen world. Jody Hedlund has also created a fictional world within the real history and culture of Irish immigrants of the mid-1800s, which is something that I wish we saw more of in Christian Fiction. This love story with a timeless spiritual message and great historical insight makes a well-rounded Christian historical romance that I love, and is my favorite of the series so far! This was a great five star read for me, and I am very excited for what Jody Hedlund has planned next in the Shanahan Match series!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes, and a positive review was not required. My thoughts are my own and I really did love it!

Bellamy McKenna strikes another match. This time Kiernan Shanahan is the target of his expertise. This was a peek at the Irish immigrant life in St. Louis in 1849. I learned a lot about the Irish who came to America and made a real go of it. Kiernan tries to prove himself a businessman but the bad element of society wanted to see him fail. Lots of interesting facts about brickmaking and the need for safe building materials after the great fire. I can attest to lots of brick buildings in St. Louis, having lived there for 20 years.

The characters were well drawn. Alannah wanted to be near her brother and live peacefully but a bully had other ideas. Clever Bellamy wagered that she would fall in love. A favorite character was Zaira who saw Alannah as a friend and not merely a maid. And I loved when Kiernan gifted Alannah with the books.

Ms. Hedlund brings together a caring hero, a skittish heroine, danger to mix things up, and a faith thread that shows the characters doing their best to honor God.

* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

You don't want to miss Book 3 in the "A Shanahan Match" series! The Shanahan family are such strong people and Kiernan is both strong and sweet! Alannah Darragh is an Irish immigrant who came to the St. Louis area. I find the stories of Irish immigrants and the hardships they endured interesting but sad. One of my favorite quotes was A man who gave her books was a man who knew the way into her heart. I've never had a man give me books but that sounds good to me too! Jody Hedlund has written another winner in A Wager with the Matchmaker and you don't want to miss it! I received a complimentary advance copy of the book from the author and Bethany House. This is my honest opinion.