Match Me if You Can by Heidi Shertok

Match Me if You Can is the second Heidi Shertok novel I have read, and once again she explores the complexities of Orthodox Jewish relationships. While I appreciated the storytelling, I found the portrayal of ultra-Orthodox norms somewhat blurred. In that community, boundaries around physical contact, modesty, and sexual discourse aren’t flexible choices—they’re deeply ingrained values. That said, the narrative was engaging, and I genuinely enjoyed the story despite those inconsistencies.

Ashira’s mother was a matchmaker, and Ashira has followed in her footsteps. But loss has shaped her life in painful ways. After her mother’s death and her father’s mysterious disappearance, Ashira vowed never to fall in love, convinced that anyone she cares for will eventually leave. Her childhood crush, Caleb—her brother’s best friend—only reinforced that belief when he joined the army without a word. Now, years later, Caleb returns, and the chemistry between them is undeniable. But Ashira is determined to guard her heart. When a careless comment about a client sparks a vendetta from the client’s mother, Ashira’s business teeters on the brink of collapse. Desperate to salvage her reputation, she tries to set Caleb up with the perfect match—only to discover his heart may already be spoken for.

Heidi Shertok delivers a heartfelt and layered story that explores love, identity, and the tension between tradition and personal desire. While some cultural boundaries feel stretched, the emotional journey remains compelling. Ashira’s struggle to protect her heart while navigating professional fallout and romantic temptation makes for an engaging read. It’s a story that balances humour, heartbreak, and hope—leaving you rooting for love, even when it’s complicated.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7995614657