BOOK BY: Jody Hedlund
A Wager with the Matchmaker is Keirnan Shanahan’s story. It follows on the heels of the great fire that destroyed St. Louis in the second book. Keirnan sees an opportunity to rebuild the city, using bricks so he positions himself to do so. The only thing is, he needs a wealthy bride to help him succeed.
Alannah Darragh is in hiding and finds refuge in the home of Keirnan Shanahan as a servant. Her protective brother fears for her life, thinking the only way she’ll be safe from the violence that threatens her is to see her safely married.
Bellamy returns as the matchmaker destined to take over his father’s matchmaking business. Of course, Bellamy has different ideas for matches than his clients.
Overall, the story was engaging. Descriptions of the city help readers anchor themselves in the St. Louis of the past. There is conflict and tension enough to match the previous story, but with a different twist to it. There is quite a bit of sizzle between Keirnan and Alannah, though nothing untoward ever happens in the novel.
The story leaves readers wondering if there will be a match for Bellamy in an upcoming novel.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.