A Shanahan Match Series: Book 1
Publication Date: December 12, 2023
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.
In the 19th century, Irish parents used a tried and true method to ensure their children found suitable partners.
Author Jody Hedlund uses this tradition as the basis for a charming romance in Calling on the Matchmaker, set in St. Louis in 1849.
Finola Shanahan and Riley Rafferty have both suffered losses that could potentially impact their happiness. Finola thinks she must become a nun as atonement. Riley, a widower, wants to make sure his next wife really wants to be with him.
Enter Bellamy McKenna, who comes from generations of matchmakers, and finally gets to test his skills by matching Finola and Riley. Not only does he have a wicked sense of humor, but he’s always several steps ahead of Finola.
What ensues is a war to capture Finola’s heart. Riley is more than capable, demonstrating enormous patience with Finola’s shenanigans. However, this couple faces plenty of ups and downs before the vows are exchanged.
The author skillfully depicts the time period, including the dangerous outbreak of cholera. There’s even a teaser at the end for the next installment, which is a definite one-click!
Calling on the Matchmaker serves up a slice of romance courtesy of an Irish tradition and a new matchmaker determined to be successful.
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.
