The Matchmaker's Gift by Lynda Cohen Loigman

 The Matchmaker's Gift My Rating: 4.6

Even as a child in 1910, Sara Glikman knows her gift: she is a maker of matches and a seeker of soulmates. But among the pushcart-crowded streets of New York’s Lower East Side, Sara’s vocation is dominated by devout older men—men who see a talented female matchmaker as a dangerous threat to their traditions and livelihood. After making matches in secret for more than a decade, Sara must fight to take her rightful place among her peers, and to demand the recognition she deserves. 

Two generations later, Sara’s granddaughter, Abby, is a successful Manhattan divorce attorney, representing the city’s wealthiest clients. When her beloved Grandma Sara dies, Abby inherits her collection of handwritten journals recording the details of Sara’s matches. But among the faded volumes, Abby finds more questions than answers. 

After reading The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern, I knew I wanted more of Lynda Cohen Loigman's storytelling in my life. She has a gift for crafting stories that feel both timeless and refreshing—filled with warmth, rich tradition, and a gentle thread of magic that ties generations together. The Matchmaker’s Gift did not disappoint. Like The Love Elixir, it masterfully blends the old world with the new, creating a narrative that feels rooted in heritage while also exploring modern questions about purpose, identity, and legacy. The characters are lovable and layered, and the sense of place—whether it's the bustling streets of early 20th-century New York or the quiet reflections of a modern-day protagonist—draws you in completely. What I especially loved was how wholesome and heartwarming the story felt without being overly sweet. There’s depth here—of emotion, of culture, and of storytelling. Lynda’s writing continues to remind me of the power of intuition, tradition, and the beautiful mystery of love that transcends generations. If you enjoy books that honor the past while gently tugging at the heartstrings in the present, this one is a must-read. I will continue to read more by this author.