At a glance
A Wager with the Matchmaker
Christian Historical Romance
A Wager with the Matchmaker
Book 3 of the A Shanahan Match series
352 pages · First published 2025
After her brother's involvement with a dangerous Irish gang threatens their family, Alannah Darragh seeks refuge as a maid in the wealthy Shanahan household of 1849 St. Louis. Determined to protect her hard-won security, she knows better than to fall for Kiernan Shanahan, the ambitious businessman whose family employs her. Kiernan has plans of his own: invest in a clay mine and brickyard to help rebuild the fire-ravaged city, then secure his future by marrying a wealthy woman with a substantial dowry. But when a clever matchmaker challenges Kiernan to a wager, his carefully calculated search for the perfect bride takes an unexpected turn. As attraction grows between Kiernan and Alannah, danger from her brother's past threatens their fragile hopes, forcing them to confront the divide between social standing and the desires of their hearts. Perfect for readers who love opposites-attract romance, matchmaking schemes, and a little danger with their happily-ever-after, this spirited historical love story offers an inviting escape into nineteenth-century St. Louis.
Paired for this story
Jump to the pours ↓Innisfree Honey Tea + Irish Coffee
Choose your bookseller
Find the Book
Print retailers offer a search when an exact edition is unavailable. Kindle links open a specific edition. Audiobook links may open an edition or a search.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Book Bartender earns from qualifying purchases. Bookshop.org links also earn us a commission on qualifying purchases. Your price is not affected. Read the full affiliate disclosure.
No surprises at chapter twelve
Content notes
Threats and danger connected to organized criminal gangs; family intimidation and pressure; aftermath of a devastating city fire; class discrimination and social inequality; financial insecurity and fear of losing employment; strong romantic attraction and passionate kissing.
Alcohol-Free Pour
Innisfree Honey Tea
Sweet honey, crisp apple, and fragrant thyme evoke Alannah’s Irish heritage, while their gentle blend reflects the unexpected romance blossoming between a spirited maid and a wealthy businessman.
What you'll need
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.How to mix it
- Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Chill and serve over ice.
- Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
- Glassware: Highball glass.
Shop glassware & tools
We earn a commission from qualifying purchases through these Amazon links, at no extra cost to you.
Highball glass ↗Cocktail Pour · 21+
Irish Coffee
For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
Irish whiskey and rich coffee celebrate the Shanahan family's heritage, while a touch of sweetness reflects the unexpected romance that overturns Kiernan's carefully calculated plans.
What you'll need
- 6 oz hot brewed coffee ↗
- 1.5 oz Irish whiskey
- 2 tsp brown sugar, adjusted to taste ↗
- 1 oz lightly whipped heavy cream ↗
Shop the spirits 21+Search Total Wine for Irish whiskey · 21+ ↗
How to mix it
- Warm a heatproof glass with hot water, then empty it. Add coffee and sugar; stir until dissolved. Stir in whiskey. Gently float lightly whipped cream over the back of a spoon onto the coffee.
- Glassware: Heatproof Irish coffee glass or mug.
Shop glassware & tools
We earn a commission from qualifying purchases through these Amazon links, at no extra cost to you.
Irish coffee glass ↗Mug ↗Set up the bar cart
Shop the Barware
Find the glasses and tools for your next pour.