The Match: A Novel

From the New York Times bestselling author of Practice Makes Perfect comes an expanded edition of The Match—a charming romance novel about second chances and the healing power of love, with a never-before-seen chapter.
Sometimes love finds you when you least expect it.
Evie Jones has dedicated her life and very limited funds working for Southern Service Paws, the company that matched her with the love of her life: Charlie, a service dog trained to assist with her epilepsy. But it’s no secret that the company has been struggling to make ends meet. It’s up to her and her longtime mentor and boss to throw the fundraiser of the century to keep the doors open.
Then Evie meets Jacob Broaden at a client consultation meeting. There are instant sparks—but not the good kind, because Jacob’s daughter set up the meeting without his knowledge. Ten-year-old Sam has been recently diagnosed with epilepsy, and has wanted a service animal ever since. While he had hesitations at first, it doesn’t take long for Jacob to be convinced that a service dog, and possibly Evie, with her magical, woodland-green eyes, might just be the best thing for him and his daughter.
As Evie spends more time with Jacob and helps Sam find her perfect match with a lovable golden retriever named Daisy, she starts longing for something she’s never had before: a loving family. For Jacob, falling in love with Evie is the last thing he should be doing, but love has a way of finding those who need it most.
Sometimes love finds you when you least expect it.
Evie Jones has dedicated her life and very limited funds working for Southern Service Paws, the company that matched her with the love of her life: Charlie, a service dog trained to assist with her epilepsy. But it’s no secret that the company has been struggling to make ends meet. It’s up to her and her longtime mentor and boss to throw the fundraiser of the century to keep the doors open.
Then Evie meets Jacob Broaden at a client consultation meeting. There are instant sparks—but not the good kind, because Jacob’s daughter set up the meeting without his knowledge. Ten-year-old Sam has been recently diagnosed with epilepsy, and has wanted a service animal ever since. While he had hesitations at first, it doesn’t take long for Jacob to be convinced that a service dog, and possibly Evie, with her magical, woodland-green eyes, might just be the best thing for him and his daughter.
As Evie spends more time with Jacob and helps Sam find her perfect match with a lovable golden retriever named Daisy, she starts longing for something she’s never had before: a loving family. For Jacob, falling in love with Evie is the last thing he should be doing, but love has a way of finding those who need it most.
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Community Reviews
The Match – Audiobook Review 🎧💛
This book felt like a warm hug and a quiet kind of hope. The Match is a swoony, small-town romance with a big heart—and one of the most tender portrayals of chronic illness I’ve read. Evie, a bubbly service dog trainer with epilepsy, lives with strength and joy despite her challenges. Her journey isn’t about being “fixed,” but about being fully seen—and loved—for exactly who she is.
Jake, the grumpy single dad, is the kind of dashing hero who listens, supports, and falls for every part of her. Their love story is soft, intentional, and full of heart. I especially loved Evie’s bond with his daughter, Samantha, who also lives with epilepsy. Watching their connection grow was emotional, sweet, and deeply validating, and how they handled their disabilities with such grace was truly inspiring to me.
The dogs added the perfect playful touch (I mean, training rescue pups and falling in love? Yes, please! And now I need my own service dog! 🥹❤️). As someone with chronic illness, I felt incredibly seen by this book. It reminded me that love doesn’t require perfection—just presence, patience, and a little faith.
Sarah Adams’ books have become such a comfort read for me. There’s something so soothing about the way she writes love—with warmth, genuine laugh-out-loud humor, and just the right amount of swoon. Her stories always feel like a soft place to land, especially on the hard days. Whenever I need something sweet, uplifting, and full of heart, I know I can count on her books to wrap me up in cozy, hopeful joy.
An absolute gem and clean romance read. Easily a 5 ⭐️ and possibly my new favorite Sarah Adams romance. 💫
A favorite quote:
“She wasn’t broken. She wasn’t fragile. She was strong in ways the world didn’t always see—and he saw every bit of it. Her illness didn’t make her less lovable. It just made loving her more intentional, more tender, more real.”
— The Match by Sarah Adams 💛
This was okay, it was cute but I listened to it because it was the first out of two and I wanted to have the backstory before the next one but now I’m not in the mood to listen to the next one lol
3.5 ⭐️ Cutest book, for some reason the voice I picture while reading was Georgia from Ginny and Georgia (Brianne Howey) Very cute found family, with representation of disabilities such as Epilepsy and how crucial/important Service dogs are.
Looking for a charming, feel-good romance? Look no further than 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 by Sarah Adams! This closed-door romantic comedy is a delightful blend of sweet moments, laugh-out-loud humor, and heartwarming connections.
Meet Evie, a dedicated worker at Southern Service Paws, and Jake, a devoted single dad. Their first meeting isn’t your typical client encounter—it’s electric, and the sparks fly from the get-go!
Here’s what makes this book a standout:
𝟭. 𝗔𝗱𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: Evie, along with her loyal service dog, and Jake, the ever-charming single dad, make a lovable pair. Their sweet and funny interactions are a joy to read.
𝟮. 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆: From flirty banter to passionate kisses, Evie and Jake’s chemistry is off the charts, making every page a treat for romance fans.
𝟯. 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗹𝘀: The bond between Evie and Jake’s daughter, Sam, is beautifully portrayed. Their growing relationship adds a touching layer to the story.
𝟰. 𝗪𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗲𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗙𝘂𝗻: While it’s light on the steam, this book is heavy on warmth and humor, making it a perfect cozy read.
Overall, 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 is a delightful escape that’s perfect for a weekend binge. If you’re into sweet romances with a touch of humor and heart, this one’s definitely for you!
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