Saved by the Matchmaker

A Shanahan Match #2

by Jody Hedlund

After her annulment is finalized, Enya Shanahan finds herself caught in a web of scandal and obligation while carrying a secret that threatens to shatter her family's reputation. Determined to find a suitable marriage for Enya, her father turns to a wily matchmaker to save them from their circumstances.

Sullivan O'Brien, a steamboat captain committed to aiding enslaved people on their path to freedom, is faced with an ultimatum from his father. Forced to marry or lose his livelihood, a marriage of convenience seems to be the only solution. As he and Enya face the trials of their pasts and a city consumed by fire, they must confront their deepest fears and learn to trust in love, even when darkness threatens to engulf them.

Bestselling author Jody Hedlund returns to 1800s St. Louis in this dramatic and stirring tale of resilience and love against all odds.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Christian Fiction, Historical Romance, Historical, Fiction, Marriage Of Convenience

352 pages, Paperback

First published August 6, 2024

About the author

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over fifty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle. Find out more at jodyhedlund.com.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

“He didn’t prevent the hardships or the difficulties. Instead, He pieced the shards together to create something new that wouldn’t be perfect and wouldn’t be without its blemishes, but the brokenness would be beautiful in its own way.”

Jody Hedlund’s sequel ‘Saved By The Matchmaker,’ more than met my expectations! It’s a heartwarming novel about desperate decisions and the uplifting power of true love.

Days later, I’m still thinking about Enya and Sullivan and their story about second chances. I, too, have felt like Enya, broken and crushed, having only a ghost of myself remaining, and have put one foot in front of the other to keep going. I think I identified with her because I knew her pain; accepting the present in light of the future. In setting aside her constant companions of shame and guilt, Enya learned to embrace her future and see herself through Sullivan’s eyes. It’s amazing how we blossom when we experience pure love.

Sullivan has his challenges, the least of which is finding a wife by midnight on Shrove Tuesday to please his father. I loved having a front seat to his growth as he learned to put other’s needs above his own. Suddenly, his selflessness became the antidote to his struggle with inadequacy. There’s a spiritual lesson in that for us.

The meticulously executed ‘Battle of Brokenness’ theme highlighted our need to embrace the blemishes, allowing the beauty of brokenness to shine. I’m thankful for Enya’s example of welcoming testing, especially when she was most vulnerable, and of rallying the grace to forgive and the courage to carve out her future.

I was gifted this copy by Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Cara Putman · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first page this marriage of convenience romance pulled me in. The author writes wonderful romance and this one is even sweeter thanks to the hero’s approach to the wounded heroine.

Both Enya and Sullivan have a reason they must marry immediately. And both are skittish about giving their full hearts to the other. The way Sullivan sacrificial loves Enya is breathtaking. There’s a lot going on in this novel but the romance captured me. That is not normal for me and I loved it! I highly recommend this sweet, clean, yet romantic read.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the cutest couples I have ever read!

I'm so happy I continued reading this series, Saved by the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund has one of my favorite romance tropes and couples to date. A sweet marriage of convenience story that is truly such a fairytalesque setting. I couldn't get enough of the hero Sullivan. Brave, strong, quiet and protective. This story also has the 'if you hurt her I'll..." trope, not exactly sure on the terminology, but phrases like that always get me weak in the knees. 6🌟


*Thank you to the publisher and author for sending me a copy of this book to read. All thoughts are my own.

[Kremena Koleva · Rating 4 out of 5]

Онова, което можех да правя докато четях Saved by the Matchmaker, беше да се възхищавам на героите. Така бяха конструирани, обрисувани и представени, че с удоволствие бих ги срещнала. Робството в южните щати, търговията с емблематичните за Мисисипи кораби от 1800 - та година, разпространилата се чумна епидемия в Сент Луис, масовото навлизане на златната треска в кръвта на авантюристи и желаещите да забогатеят бързо... Всички нюанси на живота по реката се оказват фон за съдбата на Еня Шанахан и капитан Съливан О' Браян. Потомци на ирландците , емигрирали в новите земи, както може да се разбере от фамилиите им. Двамата се опитват да изковат от краха на миналите си опити нов живот със щастие завинаги . И колкото и различни и неподходящи един за друг да изглеждат в началото на връзката си, и Еня и Съливан разбират, че търпението, бавното напредване към една желана цел и упоритостта на добротата отварят и залостени врати.
Много се възхищавах на Съливан О' Браян! Въпреки, че на външен вид го докарваше на ядосан мечок, всъщност притежаваше търпение, сърдечност, наблюдателност и доброта , огромни като Мисисипи! С обмислени жестове, своя си тактика и, разбира се, с достатъчно пари от корабния си бизнес, Саймън беше / е мъж - мечта! Не малко разочарования му бяха поднесени от Ения. Аз бих се отчаяла в опитите си да я спечеля. Но неговия праг на търпимост на пренебрежението и саботирането на връзката им беше в пъти по - висок от моя! Свалям му шапка! Все пак това му спечели сърцето на желаната жена най - накрая! Така че , чрез кротка упоритост към успех , е добър подход. Дори когато ни се струва, че в началото наливаме от пусто в празно!
Мила и трогателна история, която е утвърждаваща и оптимистична. Но с книгите на Jody Hedlund винаги може да се открие вярата в доброто! Приказките са за хора от всички възрасти! Защото винаги ще имаме нужда от добрия край, който оправя всичко!

[Zoe · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’ve been incredibly disappointed by this series so far! The concept sounded so interesting, and I was excited to get my hands in these books. But so far they have only been about s*x driven men, who try to do things for their women to get them into bed. Not a very cute and hopeful romance for someone who wants to eventually find someone to marry for love and friendship not just a bed partner.
Also the plot build up and romance has also been disappointing, we go from two struggling figures trying to fall in love, on one page they are still trying to work through their shallow problems and the next they suddenly (out of literally now where) realize how madly in love they are. 🤷‍♀️ 🤦‍♀️ like what? Where did this come from, it would be so much better if we got at least a little detail on how the characters came to this realization.
The only thing saving this series is Bellamy, I adore him and he seems to be the only character with real depth! I always find him and his cocky manner funny. I sincerely hope the next book will be about his love story.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

“You don’t have to let the scars of your past determine your future.“

I have been so eager for Enya & Sullivan’s story since the author set it up for us in Calling on the Matchmaker. A marriage of convenience story with Jody Hedlund at the helm? Let me think about that for negative 0.2 seconds… YES PLEASE!

“She needs someone who will cherish her, so she does. And I have the feeling that you can be that man.”

Sullivan O’Brien intrigued me in the last few pages of book one, and he completely won my heart in Saved by the Matchmaker. The more I got to know him, the more I adored this teddy bear of a hero – a little gruff on the outside, but the kind of man whose inner strength radiates around you like a comforting hug. There are so many layers to his character, but the common thread is that he does the right thing, sometimes at great personal risk. His selfless care for Enya’s heart, even as he is falling in what he assumes is unrequited love with her, is exquisitely sweet … and when they get around to kissing (even if just for show), whew! Passion ignites between them, to be sure, but it’s the undercurrent of cherishing in each kiss, touch, or embrace that makes their romance so swoony for me.

“God did not prevent the hardships or the difficulties. Instead He pieced the shards together to create something new that would not be perfect and would not be without its blemishes, but the brokenness would be beautiful in its own way.”

Both Enya and Sullivan bear scars from their pasts, wounds (whether they began internally or externally) that further complicate their emotions in an already complicated situation and make it difficult for them to fully trust each other’s heart. I wanted to hug both of them… and sometimes shake them a little too… as their fears and their feelings of inadequacy cause them to take a couple steps forward and a few steps back several times throughout this story. This dance is so worth it, though, in the end as the message of God bringing beauty out of brokenness is tenderly restorative.

Bottom Line: Saved by the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund takes two broken people and stitches them together in a beautiful picture of love and grace. Their marriage may have happened because their respective fathers forced them into it (each for separate reasons) but their Heavenly Father had His own plan all along and I loved watching it unfold. The romance sizzles (chastely) but the physical desire is grounded in sweet affection and sacrificial love, exactly as this author always does so well. While we didn’t see the delightful matchmaker Bellamy as much in this book (because the match was made at the very beginning), the stage is already set for more of his shenanigans in book three – and I can’t wait!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really felt for Enya as she struggled to navigate the difficult circumstances she's in. She was rather impetuous in the first book, and in this one we see the fallout of her choices. Her family supports her in the best way they know how- making her a good match, even though they don't know each other yet. It shows her level of despair and desperation that she goes along with the plans instead of rebelling again. I just love the matchmaker Bellamy and his shrewd insight into the lives and hearts of those who come to him. Sullivan has a wounded heart, and Bellamy can sense what he needs, and what Sullivan can provide to Enya. Their beginning was naturally rocky, but the goodness they have inside peeks through as they learn more about each other and transition to married life. They way they slowly and secretly fall in love is complicated by their insecurities- blending sweetness and chemistry with frustration and tension. I loved the setting of the steamboat on the river as they journey from St. Louis to New Orleans and back again. The unexpected dangers they face bring a level of suspense and provide a thrilling climax that reveals their newfound devotion to one another. I'm loving this series and can't wait for (hopefully) Kiernan's story in the next book!

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.

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in this series was fantastic, but this second book, Saved by the Matchmaker, I loved even more! If you haven’t read the first book, Calling on the Matchmaker, don’t worry, you can easily read book two as a stand alone novel.

I love marriage of convenience stories and this one had the perfect blend of the two main characters wanting to help each other in their respective situations, while also juggling a lot of hurts from their past experiences. There was great romantic tension and attraction between Enya and Sullivan, but fear kept Enya from being willing to open herself up to trusting Sullivan fully.

But what I absolutely adored about this novel was the way Sullivan showed Enya that he cared about her over and over and over again. He wanted her to know that she could trust him and hoped she would eventually be able to see that he was not like the man who had abandoned her. Sullivan’s love was sacrificial and beautiful.

This is a story that I simply couldn’t set down. I ended up reading the whole book in a day! I also know that this is a novel that I will be reading again. It’s a definite favorite!

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

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Beauty in the Binding · Rating 4 out of 5]

Saved by the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund is primarily a romance, and an edgy one at that. The historical events, the characters’ spiritual growth, and Sullivan’s abolition efforts were present and enjoyable, but they played second fiddle to the physical attraction, romantic tension, and relational development between Enya and Sullivan. Some readers may be put off by the strong romance while others may embrace it. Personally, I gobbled up the story with delight.

Saved by the Matchmaker took the familiar marriage-of-convenience trope and applied it to Sullivan, a man of strong morals, and Enya, a woman broken by a man of poor morals and her own past decisions. The beautiful way that Sullivan loved Enya allowed their physical attraction to be on display without feeling lusty and overbearing. In the formation of their relationship, the story cast out the idea that “obligation sex”– a practice that the church has perpetuated and caused much harm with – is appropriate. Rather, Hedlund chose to have Sullivan love and support his wife until she was ready for the physical expression of their love for each other. This healthy view of marriage and sex is the opposite of what the church taught me as a young wife, and I applaud Hedlund for her courage in addressing the topic.

Saved by the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund lands as the second book in the Shanahan Match series but read well as a standalone. Four stars for this edgy romance with a wily Irish matchmaker, sizzling romantic chemistry, and an enjoyable story.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Matchmaker Bellamy has a tough job his second time around. Each of his candidates is desperate and time is running out. Enya has been abandoned by her cruel husband and is pregnant. Sullivan has promised his father he will wed before midnight on Shrove Tuesday or his career as a steamboat captain is over. By midnight, the deed is done but the bride and groom are strangers.
This was a great marriage of convenience story with a very kind, patient, caring hero. Sullivan is truly a hero with scars to prove it from rescuing men from a burning boat. Enya carries her scars inside her as she tries to trust a man again.
I am glad there was a bit less sizzle to this romance as Sullivan and Enya try to deny that they care for each other. Other elements such as life on a steamboat, the scenery down the Mississippi, Enya composing music, a nasty slave catcher, and a very scary fire make this a well rounded story. In the end the couple find their way back to each other and regain their trust in God. *God did not prevent the hardships or the difficulties. Instead He pieced the shards together to create something new that would not be perfect and would not be without its blemishes, but the brokenness would be beautiful in its own way.*
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

[Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

At least 50% of this book is inner, repetitive, dialogue. The entire book rests on if the FMC will eventually sleep with her rushed arranged marriage husband. Utterly tiresome and could have been so much better.

[Suzan · Rating 5 out of 5]

"He didn't prevent the hardships or the difficulties. Instead, He pieced the shards together to create something new that wouldn't be perfect and wouldn't be without its blemishes, but the brokenness would be
beautiful in its own way."

I am completely in love with this story and the characters!

After reading the first book in the series last year, I’ve anxiously been waiting for Saved By The Matchmaker. It was well worth the wait, and even better than I had anticipated.

It’s a beautiful and heartwarming love story, told with Jody‘s fabulous style of writing and gift for storytelling. From the opening lines to the deeply satisfying ending, I was completely immersed in this story and could not put it down.

Enya Shanahan eloped with someone who she quickly learned was a scoundrel, and who left her not long after marrying her. After her annulment is finalized, her father and brother are in a rush to get her married to cover up the scandal. They turn to the local matchmaker for help.

Sullivan O’Brien is also in need of the matchmaker’s service. He is a steamboat captain who’s being forced to marry, or he’ll lose his livelihood.

This marriage of convenience seems to be the best solution for both of them. But Enya and Sullivan both carry heavy burdens from their past, and now they face the challenged to learn to trust in themselves and each other.

I loved Enya’s feisty and passionate character. You can feel how that first marriage crushed her spirit, and it was lovely to see it grow strong again with Sullivan’s patience, love, and kindness.

Sullivan is now one of my favorite MMC‘s. He has a gruff exterior but is extremely sensitive underneath that. I loved how protective he was of Enya, how deeply in love he fell for her, and that he was so aware of all of her wants and needs.

If you love well-written historical fiction, closed door romance with lots of sizzle, and a story with depth and some danger and intrigue, then you really need to read this book!

I received a copy through NetGalley, Bethany House Fiction, and Austenprose, but a positive review was not required.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though this easy can be read as a standalone I'd suggest you read the series in order. I loved the first book in the series, and I think this one was even better.

Once again, the matchmaker is called upon, with different circumstantial needs the couple has a marriage of convenience. A previous marriage had her thinking she was in love, and he loved her until she realized it wasn't true.

He has insecurities due to past circumstances. I loved how gentle and understanding Sullivan was. He didn't rush her into anything. He knew she was hurting from her past relationship and not ready to trust another man yet. He goes out of his way to ensure her happiness, security and trustworthiness not caring it was at the expense of himself.

Time and again he proves to her he is not like the one who abandoned her and he can be trusted.

I loved Enya and Sullivan's characters and how he gave her all the time she needed to trust him and fall in love. I couldn't put this down and highly recommend it to all lovers of historical fictional romance.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews for my honest opinion.

[Laura Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was pulled into this beautiful story right away and didn’t want to put it down until the very end!

After Enya’s short marriage is annulled, Enya’s father turns to a matchmaker in the hopes of finding her a suitable husband and saving her from scandal. Meanwhile, Captain Sullivan O’Brien finds himself faced with an ultimatum from his father. He either gets married or loses his livelihood. When Enya and Sullivan are matched together they must face their past hurts together and learn to trust one another.

I don’t know how Jody does it but she always manages to create well written historicals full of the perfect blend of romance and adventure. This one was no different and I loved every single minute I spent reading it. I was so interested in the matchmaker at the beginning and how Bellamy could see what both Enya and Sullivan needed and put them together. Both of them believe they are unlovable to anyone because of past hurts. Sullivan sees himself as unattractive because of being injured in the war, but he steps up to the challenge to treat Enya well in the hopes she will grow to love him. I love how he was so gentle and kind with her, giving her what she needed and never pressuring her for more, to show her she could trust him. Enya is beautiful, strong, and spunky. I love how outspoken she was. The story gave me some beauty and the beast vibes and I just couldn’t get enough. It was well written, well developed and the most beautiful story of healing and hope. I love the message that past hurts do not determine your future. The chemistry was spot on with some amazing kisses and a tender romance! Loved this beautiful book!

Saved by the Matchmaker is the second book in the A Shanahan Match series but can be read as a standalone.

Content Awareness - mention of slavery, abuse in the past, fade to black scene between a married couple.

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

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

1849 St Louis & New Orleans

I adore matchmaker Bellamy McKenna and my favorite parts of the novel include him. He uses his charm and confidence to make matches. In this novel, the match happened quickly. Very quickly, which was part of the joy of Enya and Sullivan's story.

Enya's sham married was just annulled and her father and older brother promptly seek to make a respectable match for her. After being spurned in her first marriage, Enya is agreeable, but leaving her heart out of it.

As a steamboat captain, Sullivan is focused on his career and only willing to get married because his father is forcing his hand.

Watching their romance blossom was an enjoyable journey.

I'm so glad there is more to come in the series.

My gratitude to publisher Bethany House for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Saved By the Matchmaker was a book that grabbed my attention from the start! I remember the first book in this series being super steamy at times (in my opinion), so I was expecting this one to be the same... but hoping it wouldn't be. It was steamy at times and there definitely was chemistry between the main characters, but it wasn't as bothersome to me in this story.

I loved how Sullivan was so patient in trying to get Enya to trust him with her heart...how he wanted a real marriage and her to want him.

All in all, a gripping read with intense moments. Recommend only for mature readers as the romance is quite heavy.

[Alecat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really liking Jody Hedlund's books! couldn't resist reading the next book.

[Linda Klager · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was fascinated by the cover and title of this book.

Enya Shanahan married a man who became a swindler and mean. Her father and brother came to her rescue to obtain an annulment when her husband decided to leave her and look for gold in California. Then Enya told her father and brother that she was pregnant. Immediately, her father and brother went to the local matchmaker to find a suitable husband to end the family's disgrace.

Sullivan O'Brien was pressured by his father to find a wife by Shrove Tuesday. Time was running out so Sullivan decided to go to the same matchmaker. Sullivan and Enya were married before the clock struck midnight.

This young matchmaker had a keen sense about which man and woman would fit the role of husband and wife. I enjoyed his advice and positive attitude.

Enya did not want to get married to another man and that marriage also to end up dying. She resisted and resisted. The matchmaker told Sullivan that he was the man to help Enya see true love. The result would be that Sullivan would cherish Enya.

I admired Sullivan for his constraint because as time passed, he fell in love with Enya and wanted her to love him. Sullivan needed to get over his inadequate feelings because of the scars of the past. Enya also had hidden scars on her heart.

The drama at the end of the book was riveting. Sullivan treasured life and rescued many from slavery. Enya joined Sullivan in assisting him.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.

[Sylvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, how I love Jody Hedlund’s books! Saved by the Matchmaker has so many things I love in a story: marriage of convenience, a wounded but determined hero, a strong heroine, and so much more. I truly can’t recommend her books enough! I’m loving Hedlund’s Shanahan Match series and can’t wait for more. 4.5/5 stars

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

[Heather (heathers.clean.reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book and it was so beautiful and sweet! Jody will always be one of my favorite authors and she is the queen of marriage of convenience stories!!

It was fun to be back with Bellamy and his excellent matchmaking! He really has a knack for it and I’m secretly hoping he eventually gets his own HEA!!

I don’t know where to start with this book! It was so beautiful! Captain Sullivan was the dreamiest MMC and the most patient and loving soul. The way he took care of Enya and cherished her just melted my heart.

Precious Enya…I was rooting for her to let herself find love and be loved. She just left a harmful marriage to a man who used her for his own gain, damaged her trust and left her pregnant with his baby. But Sullivan was the perfect man to swoop in and break down those walls and show her how a real man should love a woman!

My fav part of the MOC trope is the slow build of trust, the forced proximity and all the goodness that comes from the build up to more! And this book has it all!! It’s tender, moving, and has all the swoon and sweet romance you could ask for!

Things I Loved:
🤍Marriage of Convenience
🤍How he cherishes her
🤍The banter
🤍“I’m a patient man.”
🤍Sullivan’s family
🤍Scarred hero
🤍The piano scene
🤍He cares for her unborn child
🤍One bed+pillow wall
🤍Gentle touches
🤍When they first kiss!!!!!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Hannah Elisabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

💍BOOK REVIEW💍 Saved by the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was super excited for this book! I’m loving this series, and I love marriage of convenience! I did like book one more, but I still enjoyed this one too.

I loved Sullivan! He was so cute and sweet and I loved how patient he was with Enya! I’ve said in my last couple reviews recently that I love a he falls first trope, and this one is the same. 🥹😍 He is so kind to her and I just loved him!!

I did really like Enya’s character too. I love a sassy main girl character, and she did not disappoint! Seeing her inner battle with her past and how she grows from it was nice to see. There’s one point in the story where I thought “oh no. I can see the miscommunication train coming.” I could see why he didn’t tell her, but I felt like it was going to be a blowup for her, but when he told her, she said she understood why he’d kept it to himself and I was just like “thank goodness!” (Because I’ve read some of Jody’s books that I had miscommunication and I ended up not enjoying them as much)

I will say I enjoyed the romance more than the main plot of this book. There’s a lot of traveling which I don’t care for; I find it boring. Especially in this instance where a lot of things happen off page and it’s several scenes where the next one picks up and it’s like “now it’s two week later etc.” I also thought the helping runaway slaves would be a bigger plot point, but it’s not…it’s mentioned in the very beginning but then it’s quite a while before it’s ever brought up again.

Overall, it was a good book and I am SO EXCITED for the next one!!!!😆😆😆😆

Content warnings: it is briefly mentioned that Enya’s first husband slapped her a few times in the past.
They are married, and while they never do anything-not even fade to black- it is mentioned quite a bit. And there’s a lot of suggestive comments from others. (But they never once did anything)

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the first Shanahan Match book so much and have been anxiously awaiting this second book! I picked it up in the midst of a vacation, late at night! I kept saying I'd just read to a certain point, which then turned into another chapter and another and another and... next thing I knew I had stayed up all night and read the whole book! No regrets! I might have been a little tired the next day but it was well worth it!!!

Enya and Sullivan are characters that are so well developed that you'll be pulled in from the beginning of their stories and you'll be cheering them on to be a perfect match despite their beginnings.

The chemistry was off the charts! Sullivan has locked his heart away and never did he imagine that through a marriage of convenience he could fall in love with his wife and find his perfect match. And the same with Enya, she could never have imagined finding a man who will cherish her and truly desire to care for her and make a beautiful life together. *Happy Sigh*

There is heartache and healing, sorrow and love, adventure and suspense, and lots of inspiring moments that these characters held me captive until their story finished. And I want to go back and experience it all again! I loved it so much! Definitely giving it 10+ STARS!!!

Grab a copy and be pulled into this beautifully written story of redemption, love, sacrifice and soooo much more! And you'll be anxiously awaiting book 3 just like me and many other readers!!! Just sayin'!!!

Content: Clean. Marriage that ends in annulment, marriage of convenience. Moments of intimacy between a married couple but it fades to black. Talk about slavery. Some moments of peril but nothing overly graphic. Christian fiction elements.

I received a copy from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[LisLovesReading E.Espinoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saved by the Matchmaker, by Jody Hedlund, is the second book in A Shanahan Match series. Woven with fine threads of history, adventure, suspense, and romance, this book shines as a special tapestry of storytelling! From the first page to the last, it is a meaningful and engaging novel. Its southern settings, unconventional characters, and unexpected plot points are truly engrossing and memorable. 

With each new novel, Ms. Hedlund continues to showcase her terrific skills as a writer. In Saved by the Matchmaker, she has proven once again that she knows how to entertain and engage her readers. In this novel, her writing is certainly vivid and detailed. From the settings to the characters, immersive descriptions add depth and thoughtfulness to a touching story.

Ultimately, it is the characters in this book who add vulnerability and authenticity to the story. Their hurts, insecurities, and convictions are raw and moving, making it easy to become genuinely sympathetic to their stories. Gradually, they reveal their true natures and the desires of their hearts. As the story develops and the characters begin to pursue forgiveness, redemption, and hope, the novel grows more inspiring and thought-provoking.

Saved by the Matchmaker is an impressive story of healing, hope, danger, courage, and second chances. Uplifting and well-written, it abounds with detail, drama, and plenty of sweet romance. I gladly recommend it, and I am eagerly looking forward to reading 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.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite marriage of convenience stories!

Saved by the Matchmaker held me captive from the very first page and did n0t let go til I exhaled a very satisfactory sigh at the end. Both Sullivan and Enya bear scars, visible and invisible, that have each feeling unworthy of love. Sullivan was a wonderful hero. His desire to help Enya heal and then possibly to win her love was selfless, an act of sacrificial love that had me swooning. "...marriage vows didn't come with a time limit or an end date. They were forever. And he'd spend that forever trying to win her."

I was not a fan of Enya's in the beginning. Granted she had been hurt, but I thought her selfish and spoiled. With excellent character development, Ms. Hedlund penned a heroine that not only drew my sympathy, but found a place in my heart. The back and forth POV between Sullivan and Enya, allow the reader to follow the insecurities each is attempting to overcome. The overall theme that something new can come from brokenness, something that can be beautiful of not perfect is woven throughout the story.

With excellent plot pacing and skillful world-building, Ms. Hedlund paints a vivid picture of St. Louis during this era, the hazards of the steamboat trade on the Mississippi and the cholera epidemic. I am already hooked by the foreshadowing with Bellamy and his next matchmaking task that awaits readers in the next book in the series.

****I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher through Netgalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Dana Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The hero is quite that. A hero. I loved him so much. The heroine, bless her had so much disappointment in her life, that the hero had to tear down her walls one brick at a time. This trope is my favorite. I love a good marriage of convenience. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I actually listened to this book and thr narrator was amazing.
4.5 stars

[Tifany · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars ⭐️

Even better than the first book! I loved Sullivan! He was so sweet, patient, and adorable. He did everything right! I love a good marriage of convenience trope, and this book nailed it perfectly. I have nothing to complain about... I was giggling and rooting for their relationship the entire time, and I’m so happy that both Sullivan and Enya got their happy ending. They truly deserved it! I just wish there had been an epilogue with the baby—it would have been so cute!

Considering how the story ended, I suppose there will be a third book about Alannah and Kerrian 🤔 We’ll see! I’m excited to find out what happens next in the series.

[Deacon Tom (Feeling Better) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely story. Great characters and a beautiful plot. Partially a love story and an adventure plot.

[Carol (Reading Ladies) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Saved by the Matchmaker is an 1800s historical romance with strong characters, a page-turning plot, and thoughtful themes.

Enya’s annulment is finalized, and to save her from further scandal, her father seeks the assistance of a (cunning) matchmaker. Sullivan is a steamboat captain who risks his life to hide and transport enslaved people to freedom. His father demands that he find a wife or lose his inheritance, so Sullivan seeks the services of the same matchmaker. Enya and Sullivan are brought together by the matchmaker in a marriage of convenience. They face a few trials and harrowing experiences as they learn to trust each other. This is #2 in a series but can be read as a stand-alone.

A marriage of convenience was probably fairly typical in the 1800s when women were dependent upon a husband or father for protection and/or support. I often wonder what those circumstances would be like. It’s difficult for me to imagine in that situation as a woman living in the U.S. in modern times. A marriage of convenience trope lends itself to witty dialogue and entertaining circumstances! I think this slow-burn romance was well done.

I enjoyed both Enya’s and Sullivan’s perspectives in this story. Each was unique and equally interesting and complicated. Enya’s circumstances (abandoned by her husband) were unfortunate for the time when women needed to be married and taken care of. A pregnancy complicates everything. Can the matchmaker find her a husband before her pregnancy is obvious? Can they fool a prospective husband into thinking it’s his child? Or will a potential husband reject her when he finds out she’s pregnant? Sullivan has his own complicated life. His father threatens to disinherit him if he doesn’t marry within the year. He also hides and transports enslaved people in their escape attempts. Right away, we realize these two are desperate to marry (for different reasons) and that both risk a great deal in trusting another person. These dynamics raised the stakes in their marriage of convenience. We still have the typical stressors that come with this type of arrangement but we also get so much more.

Saved by the Matchmaker has thoughtful character development, a slow-burn romance, and a page-turning conclusion. I love this balance! I also appreciated the unique steam-boat setting which created “forced proximity.” Transporting enslaved persons added a compelling storyline. The tension of trusting each other permeates the story from beginning to end. For this reason, it is an engaging read.

I’m enthusiastically recommending Saved by the Matchmaker for readers who are fans of 1800s historical romance with strong characters, compelling content, and thoughtful themes. It is #2 in a series but can be read as a stand-alone.

Thanks #NetGalley @Bethany_House @AustenProse for a complimentary e ARC of #SavedByTheMatchmaker upon my request. All opinions are my own.

For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.