I am sticking to my previous words! I say them in every review I write for a Jody Hedlund book. I love her books! And today I finished another winner. A Wager with the Matchmaker is the story of Kiernan Shanahan. He is from a well to do family in St. Louis Missouri in the mid 1800s. He still must prove to his father that he is capable of making a name for himself and being successful in his own right. He owns his own glass factory and is purchasing a brickyard. One other thing he needs to prove his worthiness to his father, is to marry a woman of certain standards. And yes, he had a list, 12 standards! When Bellamy, the matchmaker had no intention of using said list, a wager was made.
Alannah Darragh has had many heartaches and trying times of late, with only her brother Torin left of her family and both of them hiding out from a notorious gang leader. Farrell Shaw wants her brother dead and wants to take her as a wife. Torin has called on the matchmaker to find a husband for his sister to protect her from this evil man. But Alannah wants nothing to do with it and makes a wager with the matchmaker.
This is such an intriguing and charming story. I love the main characters, but also the side characters are delightful. I hoped to hear more of them in the future. The storyline is interesting and quite entertaining. It is a clean, wholesome romance, no swearing and some Christian faith beliefs. It is the third book of the series and can be read as a standalone. But I highly recommend reading them all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A Wager with the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund is a clean historical romance with plenty of chemistry and heart. It’s the third book in the series, but works well as a standalone. While I personally preferred Calling on the Matchmaker (book two), this was still an enjoyable read.

Set in post-fire, post-cholera 1849 St. Louis, the story follows Alannah, hiding out as a maid after her brother's ties to an Irish gang put her in danger. Kieran, whose sister employs Alannah, feels drawn to her and steps in to help — though he doesn’t see himself as the one to protect her long term. Enter Bellamy, the charming matchmaker with a surprisingly personal stake in both their futures. Unbeknownst to each other, Alannah and Kieran both make a wager with him, adding a fun twist.

The historical setting was especially engaging, and living near St. Louis made it even more interesting to me. As with all of Jody Hedlund’s books, this one is clean with Christian themes — though be prepared for more physical tension than is typical in most Christian fiction.

I’m especially excited for Bellamy and Zaira’s story next — it’s bound to be a great match!

kissing, lots of physical thoughts
violence - gangs and gang violence, fire, stabbing,

So I've read 12 books by Jody Hedlund. After a while, you start to get a feel for an author. Some of her books I've rated 4 Stars and some 3 Stars. I don't think I've had a 5-star book from her yet, but she's been consistent. One of the things I like about her is that her books are clean, often Christian fiction, yet they don't deny physical attraction and longing. She can bring some yearning into her books. At the same time, the last three I've read by her (including this one), felt almost like a formula. They each felt either lacking in an area that I couldn't describe, or they felt rushed. I did miss the second book in the A Shanahan Match series. I hope to come back to read it eventually.

Basically, Alannah is being sheltered at Kieran's sister's house as a maid. Her brother got entangled in an Irish gang upon arriving in St. Louis. Unfortunately, that means his loved ones are in danger from the backlash of his trying to get away from this gang. Kieran is attracted to Alannah and wants to see her settled and protected. Of course, he doesn't immediately consider himself as an option for protecting her, even though he takes on the responsibility of finding her suitable work. Sometimes I'm all about forbidden love stories, and other times I'm frustrated with the characters for making poor choices. I found that I was unhappy with the characters choosing to spend time together alone in what would have been a compromising position had they been discovered. Yet. I wanted to root for them at the same time.

Favorite quotes:
-"The only sure thing about luck is that it will change."

-"You never miss the water till the well has run dry."

-"We cannot be blaming the problems we create on God."

-"God could turn His nose up at us for all the times we think we know best and go our own way. But He doesn't. Instead, He's there offering to help clean up our problems and walk with us through them."

-"Maybe you're expecting God to answer your prayers the way you think He should when He's actually answering the way He knows is best."

-"Doncha be prodding me along without telling me where you're pushing me."

All of that being said, A Wager with the Matchmaker was not my favorite Jody Hedlund book. They can't all be the best. I have been a little frustrated with the last three books that I've read by her, yet I still plan to read more because I've read enough of her books to know what she's capable of writing. A Wager with the Matchmaker gets 3 Stars. I'm looking forward to Bellamy & Zaira's story. Have you read A Wager with the Matchmaker? What did you think? Let me know!

This series is one of my favorites, and Kiernan and Allanah’s story was a fantastic addition to it. Having eagerly anticipated their story since the last book, I was delighted to find that it exceeded my expectations. Loved it from beginning to end!

After threats from a dangerous gang leader, Alannah leaves St. Louis and becomes a maid for the affluent Shanahan family, where she must resist her attraction to Kiernan Shanahan to maintain her position with the family and to keep hidden.

Kiernan is seeking a wealthy bride to help fund his clay mine and brickyard venture, but his plans aren’t so certain the more he’s around Alannah, a woman he’s strongly attracted to and extremely protective of.

Jody did an amazing job of creating layered and lovable characters, a compelling storyline, a swoony romance full of sizzle but no spice, and a dash of danger and suspense.

The chemistry and attraction between Kiernan and Allanah were palpable. I loved how they were from differing social classes, but shared a strong connection with each other. Seeing their love blossom, especially during their late night meetings, was utterly enchanting. And so was the way Kiernan gifted books to her.

I really enjoyed the historical setting, the vivid descriptions of 1849 St. Louis, the light faith elements, and the wonderful side characters. I cannot wait for Bellamy to get his story!

As the third installment in the series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the entire series.

I received a copy from the author and publisher via NetGalley, but a positive review was not required. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

The Shanahan Match series is one of my favorites by this author! The swoony, tension filled romance of this series continues with this third book. With the set up of the eldest Shanahan brother and an ordinary Irish immigrant turned maid in his family home, you know that there will be plenty of reasons that these two characters would not be expected to end up together. However, the charming local matchmaker, Bellamy, sees something that others miss.

I loved that Kiernan and Alannah fought their attraction to each other, yet were both continually drawn together. Kiernan was determined to keep Alannah safe from a very real threat. By becoming her protector and spending time with her, these two really began to learn more about each other. They truly fell in love with each other as they shared their hopes and dreams every evening.

The sizzling chemistry between the two added lots of great tension as they both resisted the pull to each other. However, I loved the moment that Kiernan realized that he was all in for Alannah and did not want a society wife after all. He had an uphill battle ahead of him trying to convince Alannah that she was truly the woman he loved!

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

What a fun story this was with all the feels, romance, and charm that you can expect to find in a Hedlund novel. I have really been enjoying the matchmaker stories, and I must say that the matchmaker, Bellamy has really grown on me. More on him later. This is brother Kiernan Shanahan's story. Since he is pretty much heir to his father's businesses, he wants the perfect match. One that looks good on paper, or so he thinks, but will this make him happy in life? I really felt for him as he tries so very hard to live up to the legend of his father and his mother's demands. Not that they are bad, they just have expectations for their children, especially for their son.

Now Alannah definitely does not match with the list that Kiernan has for a future wife. She is a servant and poor immigrant who is in danger just as much as her brother is from an unscrupulous gang leader who will stop at nothing to make her his out of revenge. Well, Kiernan who has a very soft spot for her will not allow that to happen. He takes her to his family's country home for safekeeping, or they all hope so.

In the meantime, wily Bellamy has been called in to make a match for both of them. Reading the other two books, Bellamy has a gift for matchmaking, except when it comes to himself. Unbeknownst to one another, both make a wager with Bellamy. To say I could not read fast enough as the events unfolded is an understatement. I started and finished this book in a day. Loved it, what can I say. And I am really looking forward to Bellamy's story in the next one. That should be quite a doozy when the matchmaker meets his match, finally.

Don't miss out on this whole series. Each book is full of toe-curling romance and undeniable faith to see the characters through.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.

“Luck has nothing to do with it,” she whispered. “It has everything to do with my wager with the matchmaker.”
Book #3 in the Shanahan Match Series, A Wager with the Matchmaker, has wonderful characters. The affluent Kiernan Shanahan and Alanna Darragh, a maid in the Shanahan household are opposites going in different directions. As they draw closer a future together seems out of reach. Will it take a miracle or a wager from the clever matchmaker to bring them together? Author Jody Hedlund’s storytelling ability is what keeps drawing me to her books.
I received a copy from Bethany House and the author. All opinions are my own.

I read this third book in Jody Hedlund’s Shanahan Match series in a day, I was so invested in the characters! Kiernan Shanahan has been busy with his businesses and is finally ready to settle down- so he gives a list of everything he wants to find in a wife to matchmaker Bellamy McKenna. But Bellamy knows that the perfect match for Kiernan doesn’t meet a single one of his qualifications! The crafty matchmaker has a lot of work to do to convince these two opposites that their chemistry is worth exploring and their class difference can be overcome.

Alannah is so easy to root for. She works so hard and is just a sweetheart who wants the best for others. Kiernan is such a good hero for the same reasons. Their chemistry is truly enjoyable and Hedlund brings her signature sizzle while keeping it sweet. There’s heart-stopping kisses, but no spice.

There’s also some great history, as this story takes place as St. Louis deals with the aftermath of the big fire and cholera epidemic of 1849. I love learning something new in my historical fiction, and this series has taught me a lot about St. Louis during this time period!

This series has been so good. In Book 4 (rumor has it!) Bellamy finally gets HIS happy ever after… and I CAN’T WAIT.

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

This is book#3 in the Shanahan Match series but can be read as a standalone book.

This is a wonderful historical romance that you will fall in love with from the very first chapter.

Alannah is hiding out as a maid for the Shanahan family after a gang leader threatens her brother and wants Alannah for himself. While Kiernan helps to protect Alannah he realizes that he is getting feelings for her even though she is from a different class of society and needs to find a wife who would give him a dowry to help him with the startup with his brickyard.

But Kiernan uses the local matchmaker to find him a bride and Alannah’s brother got the matchmaker to find a husband for her so that she can be safe.

You will have to read the book to find out what happens with both Alannah and Kiernan and also Alannah’s brother.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. The review expressed here is my honest opinion

Readers will be delighted to read the third book of the Shanahan Match series. Set in St Louis after the great fire, the cholera epidemic had people leaving the city. Allanah, a poor Irish immigrant is hiding from the head of a powerful gang when Kiernan Shanahan offers to hide her at the family home. When Bellamy, the matchmaker is ask to find matches for both Allanah and Kiernan, who will he choose? Very enjoyable story. Recommended.

St Louis, Missouri 1849

Delightful! The sparks from book one in the series have returned.

Alannah doesn't much like St Louis and plans to return to Ireland. She's just trying to get by until that can happen. Alannah dreams of being an editor, but is happy enough serving as a maid for the Shanahan family.

Kiernan Shanahan has big dreams of success and sees a woman with a nice dowry as a good way to compliment his plans. Although this may sound harsh, Kiernan has a good heart and takes care of his employees and helps protect Alannah and her brother Tobin from a gang.

What I loved about this novel...Alannah, Kiernan, Irish brogue, banter, historical details and matchmaker Bellamy. Delighted that there is one more novel in the series to come.

Set in St. Louis Missouri in 1849, A Wager with the Matchmaker continues matching up the Shanahan siblings with their perfect-for-them matches. This story stars swoony hero Kiernan Shanahan, who is sure he knows what type of wife he needs. Matchmaker Bellamy begs to differ and sets about to show him. Alannah Darragh is plucky and determined to keep her troubled brother safe from rival gang members. I loved these two main characters from the start. Their integrity, their care and concern for others, their love of family, and their sweet, changing relationship were engaging and enjoyable.

Talented author Jody Hedlund is a master at creating wonderful, relatable characters and placing them in interesting and imaginative settings under intriguing circumstances. She then proceeds to wrap them up in a delectable story and bring them out the other side stronger and better. I enjoyed learning more about the history of St. Louis during this time period while reading a very entertaining tale. I’m excited for Bellamy’s story, which I’m assuming will be coming up soon. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House. All opinions are my own.

I so enjoyed this third book of the Matchmaker series by author Jody Hedlund. Filled with intrigue and a strong storyline, the “matchmaker” sets out again to bring two unlikely characters together in a most unexpected way. With some humor and plot twists, this book carries a strong Christian theme that is encouraging and uplifting. Highly recommend !

“Maybe you’re expecting God to answer your prayers the way you think He should when He’s actually answering the way He knows is best.”

Ohhhhhhhh y’all. A Wager with the Matchmaker is classic Jody Hedlund romance and I loved every minute of reading this swoony book! We’ve seen Bellamy McKenna match two of Kiernan Shanahan’s sisters with forever-loves, and now it’s Kiernan’s turn. Hedlund set the stage for his story – and his match – at the end of the previous book so I was eager to see how she wove it all together. Because the match Bellamy has in mind for Kiernan comes with her own set of challenges, and an uphill climb to be accepted as an appropriate match for a affluent businessman from an established society family. And when this author is at the helm of a romance with a difficult road to happily-ever-after, you know there’s going to be some delicious tension and kisses sizzling with repressed passion (while staying chaste). Wow! Did she ever deliver those!! I’m still fanning.

Bless Kiernan’s heart, he has a list of all the requirements he has for a bride – things like ‘from a wealthy family’, ‘a St. Louis native’, ‘a substantial dowry’, ‘able to navigate society’s expectations’, etc. Yet the woman he’s increasingly drawn to is the exact opposite of everything on that list. Alannah Darragh is an impoverished immigrant and – even more significantly – a maid in the Shanahan household. Granted, that last one is his own fault because he brought her there for protection from the Irish gang leader who has her in his sights. But to say a marriage between them is unlikely would be an understatement. Enter the matchmaker who has more than proven in this series that he’s willing to go to clever lengths to facilitate the right matches. And Bellamy’s wilyness is on full display in his machinations to help Kiernan see that Alannah IS his best match. I delighted in the wagers that he puts into place with each of them – it’s always fun when readers are in on the secrets that the characters don’t yet know, especially when a Hedlund-driven romance is the end result. (Side note: I’m so happy that Bellamy gets his own story next!)

I loved Kiernan and Alannah as individual characters – they each are people I would want to spend time with in real life (assuming I could speak coherently in Kiernan’s swoony presence lol). But oh I adored them together – first as friends (albeit friends who are deeply attracted to each other and fighting it) and then as people in love. Their late night talks – you’ll love the setup & setting for these – are such special scenes that spark with affectionate humor, meaningful conversations, and of course yummy romantic tension. Until the kissing started, these were my very favorite scenes in the story. And then, well… have mercy, the passion between these two is just perfection so keep a fan handy and remind yourself to breathe. But even more than being in a swoon-induced puddle, the tenderness and even gratefulness that shares space with that passion brought tears to my eyes for its exquisite sweetness. (And don’t let the word ‘passion’ scare you – they are sizzling kisses but kisses only.)

Bottom Line: A Wager with the Matchmaker is Jody Hedlund at her best. Kiernan and Alannah are compelling, layered, and likable characters, and readers will be cheering for them to find their happily-ever-after together. I easily immersed myself in this novel, lost to everything else until I’d finished the final word and even then I simply sat with it for a few moments, unwilling just yet to leave the glow of a story well told. The obstacles in their path gave the plot just enough sharp edges to deepen the character growth without distracting from why we’re all here – the swoonilicious romance that Hedlund so excels at. And after the foreshadowing we’re given at the end of this one, I am so eager to read the final book too (though I wish there were at least a dozen more). If you’re looking for a story that combines subtle-but-meaningful faith themes, compelling history, engaging characters, and sizzling kisses-only romance, look no further than A Wager with the Matchmaker!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

I have been a fan of Jody Hedlund's books for many years. This is one of my favorite series that she has written. I have found Bellamy the matchmaker delightful and the Shanahan family heartwarming. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone, but it is nice to read the books in order to have the complete backstory. Ms. Hedlund skillfully foreshadowed Kiernan and Allanah's story in the previous book. I was delighted to find that Kiernan was finally going to get his story. As he handed his list of requirements for a match to Bellamy, he found himself agreeing to a wager by the matchmaker.

Bellamy had a curious knack of prodding his unsuspecting clients into a direction they would not have picked for themselves. In A Wager with the Matchmaker, he makes a wager with both Kiernan and Allanah. While Allanah is not interested in a match at all, Kiernan's prospective list of qualities in a future wife don't coincide with the direction of his heart. While I anticipated the ending, I LOVED reading the way they would get their happy ever after. Ms. Hedlund writes clean romance, but those kisses practically sizzle off the page.

The historical detail of the cholera epidemic and the fire in St. Louis in the 1840's provide an atmospheric backdrop of the early days of St. Louis. Along with the prejudices against poor immigrants and the gangs that control the inner city. These events affect Kiernan's developing business interests as he ventures into crafting his own legacy. This is a wonderful story of learning to relinquish control and rely on God to provide wisdom and direction for one's life.

With a wee bit (I couldn't resist) of foreshadowing, I discovered there will be a fourth story in this series. My vocal squeal of happiness made my husband laugh. Will Bellamy finally stumble into his own match? Fingers-crossed.

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

Bellamy the Matchmaker does it again! I love how he is able to take two people and create circumstances so that they become a perfect match for one another. I love this series and this is another book that adds depth to the overall story arc of the matchmaker.

Kiernan has a generous and giving nature, and while he is trying to impress his father with his business savvy, he really wants to help those who need jobs. It’s great to see him discover that the things he thought he wanted in a wife were all very shallow societal expectations. What he came to find out was the Alannah was much more than all of those things.

Bellamy is perhaps my favorite character. As the series progresses we learn more about this private young man. He not only is a man who studies people, but he also has a hidden talent that I hope we see in future stories.

Things to love:
dual POV
danger
protective brother
the brickyard
inventions
the countryside
the list
late evening talks
books

I received a copy of the book. All opinions are my own with no obligation to write a positive review.

Jody Hedlund delivers another emotionally rich and delightfully romantic historical tale in A Wager with the Matchmaker. Set against the backdrop of post-fire St. Louis, this novel blends heartfelt romance, high-stakes danger, and unexpected humor, making it impossible to put down.

The story follows Alannah Darragh, a young woman who has fled a dangerous entanglement involving her brother and an Irish gang. Taking refuge as a maid in the Shanahan household, she is determined to protect her family by staying under the radar and avoiding romance. But her resolve is tested when she meets Kiernan Shanahan, a businessman with charm, ambition, and plans of his own.

Kiernan is driven by duty and practicality—he needs a wealthy bride to fund a clay mine that will help rebuild the city. But when a clever matchmaker steps in and fate begins to stir, his heart starts pointing him in a different direction.

What makes this book shine is the tension between duty and desire, and how both characters grow as they face trials that test their courage and loyalty. Jody Hedlund’s writing sparkles with rich historical detail, natural dialogue, and sizzling chemistry that never feels forced. Alannah is a strong, relatable heroine, and Kiernan’s journey from self-interest to genuine love is both believable and touching.

A Wager with the Matchmaker is a compelling, heartwarming page-turner.

These Shanahan Match books have quickly become some of my favorites! I love the cleverness of the series and the matchmaker. I love the characters and the Shanahan siblings! I love the matches and the sweet love stories. This third book was no exception! I was hooked and didn't want to set it down at all. But alas, there were moments that I had to because life was calling. But you better believe that during my reading time, I was thoroughly enjoying ever moment that I had to be immersed within the pages of this book! I didn't want it to end but I am definitely looking forward to the next book.

I will tell you that you could read these as standalone novels, but I would highly recommend, and even urge you to read them in order. Everything flows together and builds and you get to know the main characters for each book throughout all of the books. Especially Bellamy. I CANNOT WAIT FOR HIS BOOK!!!! Just saying!

I loved that this book is about Alannah and Kiernan. Their story was set up near the end of the previous book, and can I just say that this is one of those books that you just release a happy sigh for while you're reading and when you've finished. It just made my heart so happy! I smiled. I laughed out loud. I giggled. I held my breath. I cheered out loud. And I told one character in particular that they needed to be getting on with things. Hahaha! If you've read the series (and especially when you read this one) you might be able to guess what character I'm referring to. I can't wait for that character's story!!!! There's a hint for ya!

As I'm writing my review and thinking back over this book and all of the scenes, especially the ones that I love, I want to go pick up my copy again and read it over and over again!

The wagers were fantastic!!! Hahaha! I love when the main characters don't know what the reader knows and so we're sitting back reading and having a lark over what they don't know and can't wait for them to come to a knowledge of what we know. It's so much fun in this book! There's a certain matchmaker who was definitely laughing all the way to the bank over these two!

I loved the late night talks, the book references and talks, the early morning meetings, the longing glances, the feeling of unrequited love, the gazebo, the reveal, the protection, the friendship and buildup of love. Oh my heart!!! I loved it all!!! If you think I'm gushing, well, you'd be right! Because I am! That's just how I feel about this book. I want to gush about it and tell everyone to read it because I loved it! I hope if you do decide to pick it up that you enjoy as well!!!

Now I am going to patiently wait for the next book to be written and released because it is definitely going to be worth it!

Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril. Some kisses but nothing further than kisses. Some mild innuendos.

I received a copy from the publisher, Bethany House, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

When Alannah Darragh immigrates from Ireland to St. Louis, Missouri, in 1849, she has no idea Torin, her brother, has entangled himself in a gang or struggled to get out. The consequences of his actions create an untenable situation for Alannah when she arrives. Shaw Ferrell, the gang leader, wants to marry Alannah in exchange for letting Torin get out alive.

But Alannah has no interest in marrying Shaw or any man. She dreams of working as an editor, which she did in Ireland. Instead, Torin and his new boss, the handsome Kiernan Shanahan, arrange for Alannah to work as a housemaid in Kiernan’s sister’s house. When that job ends, Kiernan offers Alannah a job at their family home.

Torin insists that Alannah marry as soon as possible, so he enlists the local matchmaker to find her a match. Alannah refuses, but the wily matchmaker makes a wager with her and only asks that she give his choice a fair chance. The matchmaker’s choice? Kiernan Shanahan—a man so far above her social station that Alannah almost laughs.

Kiernan Shanahan grew up hearing stories of his father’s exploits—arriving penniless in America and working from destitute to owning a business empire. His father expects nothing less of Kiernan. After a fire devastates St. Louis, Kiernan seizes the opportunity to profit from the disaster by investing in a brickyard.

Setbacks and financial worries convince Kiernan he needs to find a wealthy wife who can bring money to the marriage and have the social graces to act as his hostess. When he visits the matchmaker, Kiernan has a list of attributes he wants in his wife. The matchmaker promises to find suitable women for him to meet, and if Kiernan doesn’t fall in love within a month, he’ll let the matchmaker burn the list and agree to the matchmaker’s choice.

As Alannah adjusts to her new job at Kiernan’s parents’ home outside the city, she works long hours and finds little time to read or practice her editing skills. She spends more time with Kiernan, and a friendship forms between them.
Who will win the wagers? The matchmakers or the two reluctant individuals?

What I Liked About This Book

The author paints a fascinating picture of St. Louis and a little-known tradition of entrusting future marriages to a third-party matchmaker. Both protagonists grow as they realize marriage is more than a beneficial business agreement. Kiernan and Alannah must win over the Shanahans, who have reservations about Kiernan marrying someone outside their social circle.

This book is suitable for YA readers.

A Wager with the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund is book number 3 in the A Shanahan Match series. Alannah Darragh is working as a maid so she will not be found by a mob boss. She is avoiding romance and trying to lay low. Kieran Shanahan is trying to keep Alannah safe. Both have talked to the matchmaker for a match, but keep thinking about the other.

I loved getting lost in this story! I have enjoyed this series and Bellamy, the matchmaker, has a way of making things come together for couples. Kieran and Alannah had amazing chemistry, are so likeable, and you have to love a man who gifts a girl books. The time of 1840 St. Louis made for such an interesting setting, and the historical details brought the story to life. I loved how the author wove in faith in such a relatable way.

I am thoroughly enjoying Shanahan Match series. The book is filled with engaging characters, sweet romance, a great historical setting, and wonderful themes of grace. I am hoping there is one more book in the series. I highly recommend A Wager with the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund a favorite of 2025 for me.

I was given a complimentary copy and not required to write a positive review.