Oh Wow! Another hit by author Jody Hedlund! Her books never disappoint me! I had high expectations for this new series and they were surpassed! A new favorite book of hers!
Finola Shanahan has vowed she will dedicate her life to Jesus as a nun and serving the immigrants in the slums. Haunted by the death of her baby sister, which Finola feels responsible for, she deems herself unworthy of having a family of her own, and decides she will live a life of servitude and sacrifice in the Abbey, particularly by helping those living in the Irish slums. Her father, however, disapproves, and after Finola twarths each and every one of his attempts at finding her an adequate suitor, decides to hire the local Irish matchmaker to help him out. The matchmaker pairs her up with Riley Rafferty, a successful wagonmaker. A widower, Riley is not interested in in another marriage, especially after his last one failed, but his father, who seems to be at his deathbed, makes him promise to find a new wife and calls upon the matchmaker for Riley too. Riley, known for his selfless deeds in rescuing people in need, needs a woman who is not already besotted with his admirable image. Who else, but Finola, who is intent on making Riley flee just as she did with her last 12 suitors? But in Finola, he finds more than he is looking for, and without any planning, he finds it difficult to escape his growing attraction to her, except that even if he can feel the chemistry both sided, he needs to convince her that he’s the man for her, and that she’s meant for him too. Can he conquer Finola’s heart? Or will she end up rejecting him as she has done so many times before?
This was a beautiful love story, full of sizzling chemistry, yet clean and sweet, the way I like them. I loved the impossible love theme, and how Riley works at winning Finola’s heart. He’s a true gentleman: never forcing things, yet with great strategy, but with endless patience to make Finola’s schemes to outwit him work out for him instead of her, which actually ended up having the desired effect on her. Riley was a swooning hero, not only charming and lighthearted, but with a kind and compassionate heart to serve others and help mid nineteen century’s St. Louis become a better place for all people, as he runs for the Mayor Election. Involving Finola in his campaign, and helping her out in her serving to the immigrants only makes them grow closer and more attracted to each other, which puts Finola in deep trouble: should she be faithful to the promise she wants to make to God, or is God directing her toward a different future from what she envisioned for helself?
This book made me laugh out loud, at the same time it made me sigh and swoon, and inspire me too! Sometimes the things God has in store for us are so different from what we think we deserve or even plan, yet He always knows what is best for us!
I also loved the historical part of the book. St. Louis in the 1840’s, with slavery, and a cholera outbreak, and the fight to do what they both could for downtrodden! Their generous spirit inspired me!
The end was breathless and so sweet, and I hope to see more of Riley and Finola in the next book in the series as they became so endearing to me!
Definitely a highly recommended book, and particularly during this Christmas Season of giving, sharing, and being there for others!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher via NetGalley but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Calling on the Matchmaker is sure to delight historical romance readers! Jody Hedlund has delivered a fun and unique story with a fascinating premise, a colorful cast of characters, and some sizzling romance! I truly enjoyed the unique setting of the Irish community in 1849 St Louis, and the unique premise of an Irish matchmaker arranging the marriage of our hero and heroine. Finola and Riley’s relationship and banter was thoroughly entertaining, and their first meeting even involved Riley saving Finola’s life! The start of their story had an instant attraction aspect to it, and the romance was definitely sizzling. By the end of the book though, Riley and Finola were truly emotionally bonded and committed to each other, which is always the best part of a happily ever after. I truly enjoyed this book, and I cannot wait to see what happens next in the series! I have some high hopes for certain characters in future installments!

I received a copy of this book for review purposes. My thoughts are my own. I really did love it!

It's always good to spend time with the Irish. In this case a lot of them. Completely entertaining, on your toes humor, cunning, caring and spicy. Viola and Riley are both from successful self made families and well off. Both have an interest in making the lives of others better, especially the poor immigrants coming into town. With all the passion of a John Wayne, Maureen O' Hara match. And a clever matchmaker. Excellent story to fall in love with and get lost in.

I received this book free from the author, publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

#CallingontheMatchmaker #NetGalley #JodyHedlund #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #BethanyHouse #ChristianHistoricalFiction #FiveStarHistorical

Calling on the Matchmaker is a compelling story that touches the heart.
The matchmaker is such an integral part of the book and yet doesn’t detract from the romance between the main characters. She’s rather relentless in getting Finola and Riley together, yet the reader knows immediately that they are perfectly right for each other.
Finola and Riley have sizzling chemistry. Yes, they both have their issues, she’s quite independent, but his steady patience and love warms the heart.
Thank you Jody for another winning romance. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews. This is my honest opinion of the book.

Calling on the Matchmaker is set in St. Louis in the 1840s. Fiona, the heroine, belongs to a wealthy, socially prominent Irish-Catholic family who is determined that she should get married. She is equally determined not to. So her parents resort to "calling on the matchmaker," causing Fiona to sabotage their efforts. What she didn't count on was falling for "Saint Riley of the Kerry Patch."

I love reading historical novels because I learn so much from the author's research. The setting is unusual for typical stories of this era. I was fascinated with the culture and history of St. Louis, particularly the Irish immigrants.

Fiona and Riley are believable characters, and their romance story is highly entertaining. This is a fun read!

I had a lot of fun with this one.

I've read multiple other books by this author, but not a historical romance like this!

That meet cute was *fire*, and it got the book off to an awesome start!
This book is set in St. Louis, Missouri in the mid 1800's, which created a fun backdrop for this story, I thought.
I did feel at times that these characters were a little more edgy than those of maybe a regency (probably because this is NOT a regency). Not inappropriate to read, by any means. But their propriety was sometimes a little different than I expected. ;)

All in all, I was really surprised about this one and thoroughly enjoyed it!!

4.5 stars

Jody Hedlund’s Calling on the Matchmaker is a delightful historical romance that is simply magical.

After her sister’s devastating death, Finola Shanahan had resigned herself to remaining single and to never having a family of her own. Rather than look for a husband, Finola has decided to dedicate her life to caring for others and starts putting all of her efforts into helping the immigrants in the slums. Finola’s family, however, are far from enamored about her decision never to marry, and after calling upon the local Irish matchmaker, she is set up with successful wagonmaker Riley Rafferty. Finola thinks that she can outwit and outsmart Riley and unshackle herself from this unwanted arrangement, however, she quickly realizes that she underestimated her future husband-to-be…

A candidate for the St Louis mayoral race, Riley has great plans for the future – and he is positive that with Finola by his side, the two of them can make a huge difference to their community. However, when a cholera outbreak takes St Louis by storm, Riley and Finola find themselves growing closer and closer and with the stakes having never been higher, they begin to realize that happiness could be within their reach if they trust each other and take a chance on a love that might just last a lifetime…

Jody Hedlund’s Calling on the Matchmaker is an enchanting historical romance sprinkled with humor, pathos, intensity and emotion. With characters that leap off the pages, a touching love story and sizzling chemistry, Jody Hedlund’s Calling on the Matchmaker is a superb historical romance perfect for fans of the genre.

The passionate natures of Finola and Riley stood out to me in this compelling story. I loved the vibrant setting of mid-19th century St. Louis that served as a backdrop for their turbulent relationship. They are both devoted to helping others- Finola through compassionate service to the poor, and Riley is known for dangerous rescues where others wouldn't or couldn't step in. In fact, Riley's daring rescue of Finola serves as their first meeting, and in no time Riley goes from thinking he will never marry again to never being able to marry anyone but Finola. She puts up quite the fight, especially against her unwilling attraction to him. I loved their antics and the shenanigans involving not only them, but their clever matchmaker Bellamy as well. Finola and Riley both have hidden reasons for the way they live their lives, which are slowly revealed and bond them together in their heartbreaking pasts. I was riveted as Riley's patience stood up to Finola's stubbornness, and could not wait to see how they would manage to overcome the complicated choices before them.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

I really enjoy Jody Hedlund’s books, usually full of light and sweet romance. While I did like Calling on the Matchmaker, it definitely toes the line and verges of a bit too spicy for a Christian romance novel. The physical attraction between the two main characters is highlighted throughout the book and is a bit much. In spite of this, I did really like Bellamy the matchmaker and am looking forward to the next book in this series given the setup in the last chapter of this one!

I've enjoyed books by this author in the past, and there were times when her old style would show through, but sadly I liked very little about this book. My review is in the minority so take my thoughts with a grain of salt.

Let's talk about what I liked.
The historical information and integration were well done, and I liked learning about Irish immigrants to Illinois in 1849. Jody always does a wonderful job researching her times in history.

The Matchmaker character was fun and entertaining. Some of the family members were interesting and charming as well.

THOUGHTS:
The male main character was.... how do I put this... a cocky, and sex deprived Irish Superman.
Let me explain.
This dude is always saving people. In fact, that's how he and Finola met. He saves her. He's known as "the hero" always saving people from drowning etc. He even saves another person, randomly from a run-away coach. Apparently, no one in this town can drive.

He's also quite full of himself at times, but I guess that's what comes with a man who's going into politics.

Riley, (Irish Superman) is so hot and bothered for this girl it grated on my nerves. Now, normally I love a guy who is desperate for his woman, but they JUST met, AND hadn't said more than a few sentences to each other, when this happened.... "He needed to tear his gaze away from her, but he was a starving man at a feast. He'd denied himself womanly pleasures or so long that this glimpse was awakening hunger in him." .... This was just chapter 2.

Unfortunately, this continues throughout. Each chapter had some moment of ridiculous, fluffy and embarrassing attraction, with no foundation.

Finola decided that in order to "push him away" (cause she want's to be a nun) she needs to be physical and "forward" to scare him away. Because THAT'S what makes a man walk away from a beautiful woman. When she is willingly getting handsy.

OVERALL:
I think I've spent enough time on this review. I wanted to like this book and like I said, I've had success with this author before, so this feels very deflating. I'm happy for those people who loved this.

So begins another exciting and swoonworthy series from historical romance specialist Jody Hedlund! Calling on the Matchmaker takes us to 1849 St. Louis. Hedlund does such a wonderful job of submersing her readers in time and place, pulling no punches with gritty descriptions from the muddy streets to the filthy tenements. I felt like I could see the conditions ripe for a cholera epidemic.

I could also acutely feel the pull that drove Finola and Riley to serve their community. They are such well-developed and nuanced characters, each with layers of past trauma, lessons to learn… and a love to fall into. I enjoyed being submerged in their Irish American community, getting a sense of new and old traditions, a new generation trying to find the balance in an ever-changing world. You feel the strain of progress, the challenges of a city expanding too fast, the abounding opportunity for those willing to work hard and invest correctly.

All of this beautiful context is artfully showcased in the background of a stunning romance with Hedlund’s signature bit of heat (while being time period appropriate and never going too far). It was so easy to root for Riley, and he was such a worthy hero for our determined-to-remain-single-through-any-means-necessary heroine. Your heart will break for Finola when she finally reveals to us the reasons why she doesn’t feel worthy of falling in love and having a family. Yet happily ever after finds our couple after turning once again to the series’ crafty (and unexpected) young male matchmaker! Definitely looking forward to more of his escapades, because I’m sure the whole Shanahan clan is going to be in need of his services. And I’m going to start begging now that at the finale of this series he is able to find his own happily ever after!

This story left me feeling satisfied and excited about the books to come. A must read for Jody Hedlund fans, or really anyone who loves historical romance.

I received a complementary copy of this novel from the author and publisher. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.

“𝙎𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙟𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮𝙨 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙨. 𝙎𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙥 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙙, 𝙖 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙧 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙨𝙤.”

this book was so much fun!! strong-willed, headed for the convent finola versus happy-go-lucky, heroic saint riley was the perfect match! talk about chemistry. phew…burning up the pages. these two were cheeky and pretty much gone for each other from the start, but it clearly wasn’t enough.

i loved how these two really got to know each other. the chemistry was a great foundation and i really enjoyed how hedlund built upon that foundation. while initially it felt the attraction was superficial, clearly these two came to love each other for the person on the inside. the way they bonded over their shared love and compassion for helping people absolutely warmed my heart. the push and pull between riley and finola was perfection!

this is a beautiful story about finding love and forgiveness in ways you’d never expect. i loved the set up for the next book!! bellamy is such a fun character and i love his wiley ways. i can’t wait to see what he has up his sleeve for the next couple!

thank you to bethany house for a gifted copy. my thoughts are my own.

This book was oh so good. I enjoyed every minute. The sparks between this couple were flying almost immediately even as they had their own reasons for pushing each other away.

Jody Hedlund has another winner here. The matchmaker is a bit unexpected and completely manipulative in all the good ways, The couple is resisting each other as hard as they are attracted to each other. This book was pure entertainment.

Finola tries to do everything she can to atone for her guilt after the death of her sister and Riley needs to marry to boost his campaign though he has vowed not to marry again, As they fight each other off, it is clear to the reader that they need each other.

This was a strong story that seems to be setting up a series because I could definitely see what else our matchmaker has in store.

If you love immigrant stories, romance, and the building of America, this has it all. If you don't like those elements, it is still a wonderful story.

I highly recommend this story!

I received an early copy of this story from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest review.

I'm a historical fiction fan through and through. And this book took me to a time and place I haven't been before!

Calling on the Matchmaker is a story about a young woman who has had strong desires to enter the convent, since her sister's death. Despite refusing multiple suitors, her father still pushes for marriage, and therefore seeks the help of the town's matchmaker. Finola gets paired up with the handsome wagon maker, Riley Rafferty, whose irresistible charm seems to disrupt her plans for the future.

Set in St. Louis, in the mid 1800s, this story follows a large Irish community near the start of the Oregon Trail. I loved this setting and time SO much!! The history was so unique and fun!

This book is full of history and swoony moments. A great read for the winter! Oh and this matchmaker Bellamy...what a little schemer!! I can't wait for his story if he gets one. And hello sneak peak at book two at the end!! Sign. Me. Up.

This book releases next week! Dec. 12th! Thank you @jodyhedlund and @bethanyhousefiction for my #giftedcopy. All thoughts are my own!

*Romance- kisses, make-outs
*TW- child loss, death of loved ones, near death experiences, illness

#christianfiction #bethanyhouse
#christianromance #irishstories #stlouis #19thcentury #1800s
#matchmaker #historicalromance #jodyhedlund #wintervibes #newrelease #arccopy #december #pubday

First I should say that this book toed the line of "clean" romance; it's very physical. Riley sees Finola nearly naked (undergarments) at the beginning and fixates on it throughout the rest of the book. That might be realistic, but then I'd rather not be in his head at those times. Better yet, not at all. I'm advocating, as always, for ONE POV. And it's not limited to that one instance; both characters obsess on each others' looks and sex appeal for the whole. entire. book.

Then they play the same back and forth games: I shall push him away! I will win her over! rinse, repeat.

It got old quickly and there just was not much substance here, despite throwing in Cholera, racism/discrimination, bonding over loss/trauma, volunteer work, etc.

And I was not at all a fan of the way the Matchmaker chose to bring them together - particularly trying to force their hands with a set up and public exposure/humiliation. Ugh.

However I have loved Ms. Hedlund's books in the past, so I would give the second one a shot before deciding whether to continue on with this series or not. Especially since the premise sounds interesting - has a Beauty and the Beast tone to it.

What a fun start to a new series from a fantastic author! This story was one I absolutely devoured. I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next. Riley is quite a character and the story was one I couldn’t put down. I am already counting the days till the next book in the series!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

Lord Farleigh and Miss Frost was a charming and sweet Regency Christmas novel. The narration was beautifully done and I enjoyed both the author’s British and Irish accents. It added a nice authenticity to the story.

I loved the way Simon’s family and friends welcomed Isleen and her family right into their holiday traditions. Simon came from a very powerful, yet very kind family indeed.

The various dares and pranks were fun and I loved both Simon’s and Isleen’s attitudes regarding them. It was sweet to see these two grow closer to each other as the book progressed. They even eventually shared the worries and burdens of their hearts with each other, solidifying the beginnings of a possible relationship.

This tale was so nice to listen to from start to finish. I have not read the previous books in the series, but had no trouble jumping into this one.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Determined to never marry and dedicate her life to the church, Finola Shanahan, is willing to do whatever it takes to ruin the match between herself and the dashing Riley Rafferty.

A riveting romance, sparkling with flirtation, that was nearly impossible to put down. I loved getting to know the Shanahan family, and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing more of Bellamy the matchmaker in the future! Riley is a likable man of action, always ready to come to the aid of those around him, with a natural gift for leadership.

This was such a fun read, and over far too quickly, I loved the strong themes of faith and family throughout, as well as the flirty humor that had me grinning. A wonderful read from beginning to end, with a rich Irish culture and historical setting. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I loved this new book by Jody Hedlund. She is one of my favorite authors and I was really looking forward to this new series. I loved the banter between Finola and Riley as she tried to get out of the arranged marriage. I also loved the creative ways that the matchmaker used to get them together. I loved that there were parts in the story where I laughed and parts where I felt heartbroken for the characters and what they had gone through in their lives. I liked that they opened up to each other and were vulnerable. I look forward to reading more books in this series.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

Well, Jody Hedlund has done it again. She has pulled me straight into the hustle and bustle of 1849 St. Louis. Right in the midst of the tenements, the stench, the waste, as well as the mansions, the glamour, the wealth. I lived through a cholera outbreak, and through Saint Riley's daring feats.

I'm really not sure how to classify this novel. Romance, naturally; it is Jody Hedlund, after all. But I also laughed quite a few times, and came close to sobbing at one point, with all the emotions in between. But all of that was because I was LIVING with these characters. This is an incredible read, and I HAVE to know what happens next!

~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~