Rating: 4 out of 5.

This is book 2 in a sweet Christian historical fiction romance set in St. Louis in the 1800s. The couples in the series are aided by a young matchmaker following in his father’s footsteps. But, instead of considering the social and financial interests of the couple and their families, the young matchmaker has a keen ability to match people who are actually suited to each other and destined to fall in love.

This time the couple are Enya, a woman who made a rash decision, ran away and eloped, but soon after had the marriage annulled. Unfortunately, she still needs to get married. And soon. Sullivan, is a steamboat captain that secretly helps slaves escape north. He is being forced to find a wife because of his father’s ultimatum – find a wife or lose his livelihood.

Enter the matchmaker. With a literal ticking clock counting down the fates of Enya and Sullivan, the strangers marry right at the deadline. They then set about learning about each other. Both are surprised that neither is exactly what they expected, but so much more than they had ever hoped for. Based on their past relationships, Enya and Sullivan don’t trust people easily, especially those of the opposite sex. But, as they discover more about the other, they find they like what they see.

Sullivan is determined to ensure Enya understands how special she is, that she deserves to be treated well, and he’s determined to be the one to do just that. Enya sees how self-sacrificing Sullivan is, even to the point of putting his own life at risk, and is determined to make him understand he deserves happiness too. I loved watching these hurt, scarred, and damaged people learn to trust and love once again. I really love these books and look forward to more in the series.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book from AustenProse PR and Bethany House publishers. All opinions are my own.