Title and Author
1.1 Title: Calling on the Matchmaker
1.2 Author: Jody Hedlund
A captivating Christian historical romance, this novel introduces readers to Finola Shanahan and her journey of redemption and trust, set against the backdrop of 19th-century St. Louis.
Calling on the Matchmaker is the first book in Jody Hedlund’s A Shanahan Match series. This Christian Historical Romance is set in 1849 St. Louis, blending Irish traditions, immigration, and a cholera outbreak with a heartwarming story of redemption and trust, centered around Finola Shanahan’s journey.
Jody Hedlund is a bestselling author known for her Christian Historical Romances. Her novel, Calling on the Matchmaker, is the first in the A Shanahan Match series, showcasing her talent for weaving engaging stories with strong characters and emotional depth. Hedlund’s work often explores themes of redemption and trust, resonating deeply with readers.
Book Overview
Calling on the Matchmaker is a Christian Historical Romance set in 1849 St. Louis, blending Irish traditions with a cholera outbreak backdrop. Published by Bethany House in 2023, it kicks off the A Shanahan Match series, offering a heartwarming yet poignant tale of redemption and trust.
2.1 Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Calling on the Matchmaker seamlessly blends faith, redemption, and romance, set against the rich backdrop of 19th-century St. Louis. The novel captures the essence of Christian values while exploring historical elements and emotional depth, making it a compelling read for fans of inspirational and romantic historical fiction.
2.2 Series: A Shanahan Match Book 1
Calling on the Matchmaker is the first installment in Jody Hedlund’s enchanting series, A Shanahan Match. Set in 1849 St. Louis, the story introduces Finola Shanahan and Riley Rafferty, whose lives intertwine through a matchmaker’s guidance. This book lays the foundation for a series that promises to explore themes of family, faith, and love, with future stories anticipated to expand on the Shanahan legacy.
2.3 Publication Details: Published by Bethany House Publishers, 2023
Calling on the Matchmaker was published by Bethany House Publishers in 2023. Available in paperback, hardcover, and eBook formats, the novel is part of the A Shanahan Match series, offering readers a compelling blend of historical romance and Christian themes. Its release has been met with enthusiasm, making it accessible to a wide audience.
2.4 Setting: 1849 St. Louis
The story unfolds in 1849 St. Louis, a city bustling with life and challenges, including a devastating cholera outbreak. The setting vividly portrays the cultural tapestry of the era, highlighting Irish immigration and traditions. Against this backdrop, Finola Shanahan navigates her journey, adding depth to the historical and romantic elements of the narrative.
Plot Summary
Haunted by her sister’s death, Finola Shanahan dedicates her life to caring for immigrants in 19th-century St. Louis. Her journey of redemption intertwines with unexpected romance, revealing themes of trust and forgiveness;
3.1 Protagonist: Finola Shanahan
Finola Shanahan, a compassionate caregiver in 19th-century St. Louis, is haunted by her sister’s death. Her guilt drives her to dedicate her life to helping immigrants, yet she struggles with feelings of unworthiness and the fear of forming her own family, reflecting her deep internal conflict and resilience.
3.2 Conflict: Finola’s struggle with guilt over her sister’s death
Finola Shanahan is consumed by guilt over her sister’s tragic death, believing herself unworthy of love or a family of her own. This deep emotional burden fuels her dedication to caring for immigrants in St. Louis, yet it also hinders her ability to embrace a future filled with hope and redemption.
3.3 Turning Point: Finola’s father hires an Irish matchmaker
Desperate to see Finola happy, her father enlists the help of a traditional Irish matchmaker, who pairs her with Riley Rafferty, a charming wagonmaker. This unexpected intervention forces Finola to confront her fears and reevaluate her future, marking a pivotal shift in her journey toward healing and potential romance.
3.4 Romantic Interest: Riley Rafferty, a wagonmaker
Riley Rafferty, a successful and charming wagonmaker, is introduced as Finola’s unexpected match. His determination and kindness gradually break down her defenses, offering her a chance at love and redemption. Riley’s patient nature helps Finola confront her past and embrace the possibility of a future filled with trust and mutual respect.
3.5 Central Theme: Redemption and trust
The novel explores themes of redemption and trust, as Finola confronts her guilt and learns to trust Riley. Through their relationship, both characters find healing and forgiveness, emphasizing the power of trust in overcoming past wounds and building a future together.
Historical Context
Set in 1849 St. Louis, the novel highlights the cholera outbreak and Irish immigration, blending historical events with rich cultural traditions to create an authentic backdrop for the story.
4.1 Time Period: 19th-century St. Louis
Set in 1849 St. Louis, the novel captures the challenges of a bustling city during the cholera outbreak, blending historical accuracy with the vibrant culture of Irish immigrants settling in America, creating a rich and immersive backdrop for the story.
4.2 Cultural Elements: Irish traditions and immigration
The novel richly explores Irish traditions and the immigrant experience in 19th-century St. Louis. The story highlights the vibrant culture of Irish settlers, their customs, and the role of the matchmaker, offering a glimpse into the challenges and resilience of immigrants navigating a new world while preserving their heritage.
4.3 Historical Event: Cholera outbreak in St. Louis
The cholera outbreak in 1849 St. Louis serves as a pivotal backdrop, testing Finola and Riley’s resolve. As the disease spreads, it heightens the story’s tension, forcing them to confront danger while navigating their burgeoning relationship and the challenges of their world.
Character Analysis
Finola Shanahan, a compassionate caregiver, grapples with guilt and self-worth, while Riley Rafferty, a determined wagonmaker, challenges her defenses, and the matchmaker guides their intertwined destiny.
5.1 Finola Shanahan: Her role as a caregiver and her internal conflicts
Finola Shanahan, haunted by her sister’s death, dedicates herself to caring for immigrants in 19th-century St. Louis. Her internal conflict stems from guilt and feelings of unworthiness, driving her to forego personal happiness and resist love, fearing she doesn’t deserve a family of her own.
5.2 Riley Rafferty: His character development and role in Finola’s life
Riley Rafferty, a determined and daring wagonmaker, challenges Finola’s defenses, pushing her to confront her past and embrace trust. His unwavering persistence and genuine care for her well-being help Finola heal, while her resilience inspires Riley to grow. Their relationship blossoms into a partnership of mutual respect and love, highlighting themes of trust and redemption.
5.3 The Matchmaker: The influence of the matchmaker in their lives
The matchmaker, a wise and intuitive figure, plays a pivotal role in connecting Finola and Riley, her decisions guiding them toward redemption. Her involvement sparks growth, helping Finola confront guilt and Riley embrace commitment. The matchmaker’s insight and cultural wisdom serve as a catalyst for healing, aligning their paths in unexpected yet meaningful ways.
Themes and Symbolism
Themes of forgiveness, love, and redemption shine through Finola’s journey. The matchmaker symbolizes divine intervention, guiding Finola and Riley toward healing and unity, emphasizing trust in a higher plan.
6.1 Themes: Forgiveness, love, and redemption
The novel explores themes of forgiveness, love, and redemption through Finola’s journey. Her guilt over her sister’s death drives her internal conflict, while her relationship with Riley Rafferty embodies the power of love and trust. Redemption unfolds as Finola learns to release her past and embrace a future filled with hope and divine guidance.
6.2 Symbolism: The matchmaker as a symbol of divine intervention
The matchmaker embodies divine intervention, guiding Finola and Riley toward redemption and love. Her role transcends traditional matchmaking, symbolizing God’s hand in their lives, orchestrating a union that heals emotional wounds and restores faith, highlighting the novel’s Christian themes of trust and divine providence.
Endorsements and Reviews
7.1 Positive Feedback: Heartwarming and engaging story
7.2 Criticisms: Light-hearted yet poignant tone
Readers praise the novel as a delightful, heartwarming love story with charming Irish traditions and poignant depth, blending light-hearted moments with emotional resonance.
Readers describe Calling on the Matchmaker as a heartwarming and engaging tale filled with charming Irish traditions, memorable characters, and a poignant exploration of redemption. The story captivates with its light-hearted tone while delving into deeper themes of trust and forgiveness, resonating emotionally with its audience.
While praised for its engaging blend of humor and emotion, some critics note that the novel’s light-hearted tone occasionally contrasts with its deeper themes of guilt and redemption, leaving a few readers desiring a more profound exploration of the characters’ emotional journeys.
Availability and Formats
Calling on the Matchmaker is available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats. It can be downloaded for free or purchased from platforms like Z-Library and Google Play Books.
8.1 Formats: Paperback, Hardcover, Ebook (PDF)
Calling on the Matchmaker is available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats. The PDF ebook can be downloaded for free or purchased from platforms like Z-Library and Google Play Books, offering readers flexibility in accessing the story.
8.2 Platforms: Available on Z-Library, Google Play Books
Calling on the Matchmaker can be accessed on Z-Library for free downloads and through Google Play Books. Readers can enjoy the ebook on various devices, including PC, Android, and iOS, making it convenient to read anytime, anywhere.
8.3 Download Options: Free and paid options
Calling on the Matchmaker is available for download in both free and paid options. Readers can access the book for free on Z-Library or purchase it through Google Play Books, offering flexibility to suit different preferences and budgets while ensuring easy access to the story.
Series Potential
Readers eagerly anticipate the second book in A Shanahan Match series, with hopes for continued stories about the Shanahan family and their journey through love and redemption.
9.1 Sequel Anticipation: Eagerly awaited second book
Readers eagerly await the next installment in A Shanahan Match series, with hopes for continued engaging storylines and character development. The sequel promises to delve deeper into the Shanahan family’s journey, exploring themes of love, redemption, and trust, set against the rich backdrop of 19th-century St. Louis.
9.2 Future Directions: Expanding the Shanahan family story
The series is expected to explore the lives of other Shanahan family members, delving into their unique journeys and struggles. Future books may introduce new characters while maintaining the historical and cultural richness of 19th-century St. Louis, offering readers a deeper connection to the family’s legacy and the matchmaker’s enduring influence.
Author’s Style
Jody Hedlund masterfully blends historical accuracy with emotional depth, crafting relatable characters and a narrative rich in cultural insights, while integrating faith seamlessly into the romance.
10.1 Writing Technique: Captivating and emotionally engaging
Jody Hedlund captivates readers with vivid descriptions and emotionally resonant storytelling. Her use of dialogue and rich historical context brings characters to life, while her ability to weave tension and heartfelt moments creates a deeply immersive reading experience, balancing action with introspection seamlessly.
10.2 Use of Dialogue and Description
Jody Hedlund masterfully employs dialogue to reveal character depth and forge authentic connections. Her descriptions vividly portray 19th-century St. Louis, immersing readers in the setting. The interplay of dialogue and descriptive detail enriches the narrative, creating a vivid tapestry of emotions, relationships, and cultural traditions that captivate and engage readers throughout the story.
Cultural Insights
The novel highlights Irish immigration in 19th-century America, showcasing traditions and challenges. The matchmaker’s role reflects cultural practices, while the cholera outbreak adds historical depth to the story.
11.1 Irish Immigration in 19th Century America
The novel explores the challenges and traditions of Irish immigrants in 19th-century St. Louis, highlighting their resilience amid adversity. The matchmaker’s role underscores cultural practices, while the cholera outbreak adds historical depth, illustrating the community’s strength and adaptation in a new homeland.
11.2 The Role of Matchmakers in Irish Culture
Matchmakers played a vital role in Irish culture, arranging marriages to strengthen family ties and secure economic stability. In the novel, the matchmaker’s involvement highlights this tradition, emphasizing community bonds and the blending of cultural practices in 19th-century America, while also illustrating the enduring influence of Irish customs in shaping personal destinies.
Calling on the Matchmaker is a heartwarming tale of redemption, blending Irish traditions with Christian values, offering readers a poignant and emotionally rich journey into 19th-century America.
12.1 Final Thoughts on the Book
Calling on the Matchmaker offers a beautifully crafted blend of historical fiction, romance, and faith, set against the vibrant backdrop of 19th-century St. Louis. Finola’s emotional journey, paired with Riley’s steadfast character, creates a compelling narrative of redemption and trust. The novel’s rich cultural details and poignant tone make it a memorable read for fans of Christian historical romance.
12.2 Recommendations for Readers
Readers of Christian historical romance will adore this heartfelt tale of redemption and trust. The richly detailed setting of 19th-century St. Louis, paired with Irish cultural elements, offers a unique reading experience. Fans of emotionally engaging stories with strong character development will find this book a satisfying and memorable read.
References
13.1 Bibliography and Sources
Bibliographic information and sources include the book’s publication details and online platforms where it is available, such as Z-Library and Google Play Books.
Calling on the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund is published by Bethany House Publishers (2023). ISBNs include 9780764241963 (paperback), 9780764242236 (casebound), and 9781493443758 (ebook). Available formats are PDF, ePub, and paperback. The book can be accessed via Z-Library, Google Play Books, and other online platforms, offering both free and paid download options for readers worldwide.