Saved by the Matchmaker - (A Shanahan Match) by Jody Hedlund

A midnight marriage of convenience to save her reputation leaves Enya the wife of steamboat captain, Sullivan O'Brien, a man who likes having the freedom to do his business up and down the river as a cover for a greater mission. I liked Sullivan instantly, he is a man who has been hurt in love before, not a flashy or silver-tongued man, but one with a quiet strength and integrity. I liked how he keeps trying to show Enya that he can be trusted, in a steady and dependable way. Enya knows that she made mistakes and struggles with punishing herself for the past. I loved seeing her regain her confidence, with Sullivan's love and support. Sullivan's father provided much of the romantic comedy, in the book throwing them into one situation after another. An engaging read, with captivating characters, strong themes of commitment and trust, as well as doing what is right and trusting God to forgive. I loved seeing Bellamy at his matchmaking again, and hope to read many more in the series, and maybe even see him find a match himself! A wonderful addition to the series, but it could also be read as a standalone. Highly enjoyable! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Saved by the Matchmaker, Jody Hedlund’s second book in the Shanahan Match series, is such a treat. I may have liked this one even more than the first one. I so enjoyed Enya Shanahan being given a second chance to find the right love in her life even when she feels shattered and undeserving. And, ah, Sullivan O’Brien, a scarred and broken man only looking for a wife at the demands of his father. Their match and subsequent love story is a beautiful story of healing and redemption. Jody Hedlund has written several marriage-of-convenience stories, but this is one of my favorites. I think she lets the reader see right way that Enya and Sullivan are meant for each other. I spent most of my reading cheering for them to realize that they were, indeed, meant for each other, and that their pasts should not stand in the way of their future together. In addition, Hedlund sets such an interesting historical background that the reader is not only drawn into the romance but into the time period of the story as well. Bellamy McKenna, the matchmaker, is once again consulted for this marriage. I am thoroughly enjoying his character in this series, although, he doesn’t seem to stir the pot as much in this book as in the first one. Hedlund gives a little tease at the end of the book for book three. I can’t wait to read the next Shanahan story. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions stated are my own.

Sullivan and Enya’s story really captivated me. I enjoyed the tension and back and forth between them. Sullivan’s pursuit was so sweet and long-suffering. I empathized with Enya’s struggles and found a lot of satisfaction in watching the growth of both main characters as they attempted to move beyond past hurts and embrace the future. The bits of history woven into the story were fun to explore and it was fascinating to follow along onboard a steamboat from St. Louis to New Orleans and back again. The family dynamics between the hero and heroine and their respective families, as well as the in-law interaction, was an aspect of this novel that I enjoyed. All in all, this was a good book with a lovely romance and I had a great time with this read!

I always enjoy Jody Hedlund's stories, but this book has just become my favorite! The two main characters are individually charismatic but together, they become an extraordinary super-couple! Enya Shanahan is beautiful inside and out, and Sullivan is strong, brave, and willing to put the needs of other people ahead of his own. How many gentlemen were willing to risk their health and wealth to help slaves escape to freedom in 1849? How many husbands would put the needs of their 'marriage of convenience brides' before their own? Hedlund gives readers a mesmerizing tale of danger, adventure, and romance. A raging fire and the threat of a cholera epidemic add to the action, but the real drama is in the relationship between Enya and Sullivan. I loved their deepening respect and concern for each other, and I swooned at their increasing physical attraction. The romance is clean, but oh, so sizzling and there's also a reminder that joy and peace can come from unknown people and unexpected circumstances. I recommend Saved by the Matchmaker to all who enjoy historical Christian romance. I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

Saved by the Matchmaker, set in 1849, is a wonderful addition to the charming A Shanahan Match series. Romance takes center stage in this sweet story featuring a touching marriage of convenience. To make this marriage of convenience work, however, Sullivan and Enya must both break the barriers that keep them apart. Sullivan must overcome his insecurities and “accept himself, flaws and all” and emotionally wounded Enya must overcome her fear of giving away her heart again. I love Sullivan’s patience and kindness as he perseveres and just keeps loving Enya the best way he knows how in hopes of winning her heart. Richly sketched settings and beautifully crafted characters along with the tender romance kept me immersed in this story from beginning to end. A bit of suspense and a gentle faith thread round out the read. Two favorite quotes: “…he would keep loving her until she couldn’t stop herself from loving him back.” “You don’t have to let the scars of your past determine your future.” I totally enjoyed this book and highly recommend it! Note: Even though it is part of a series, it can be read easily as a standalone. I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.